Computer Science

Why study Computer Science?

Technology touches every industry, from healthcare and finance to education, entertainment, and scientific research. Today's computer scientists need more than programming skills. They need to think critically, communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and adapt as technology evolves.

At The College of Wooster, Computer Science combines a rigorous technical education with the broad perspective of a liberal arts curriculum. Students learn in small classes taught by faculty dedicated to undergraduate teaching while exploring connections between computing and fields across the sciences, humanities, arts, business, and social sciences. Many students pursue double majors or minors that broaden their expertise and career opportunities.

Learning extends well beyond the classroom. Students conduct research, compete in programming contests, complete internships, present at professional conferences, and collaborate with faculty on projects that prepare them for careers and graduate study.

Research from the Start

Begin research early and build toward a faculty-mentored Independent Study.

Real-World Experience

Apply your skills through internships, consulting projects, programming competitions, and summer research.

Computer Science + Liberal Arts

Develop the technical, analytical, communication, and teamwork skills employers seek.

Why study Computer Science at Wooster?

Learn in small classes taught by faculty dedicated exclusively to undergraduate education.

Gain hands-on experience through research, internships, programming competitions, and consulting projects.

Participate in the Applied Methods & Research Experience (AMRE) program, where paid student teams solve real-world challenges for clients including Goodyear and Progressive Insurance.

Present research at professional conferences and participate in competitive summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs).

Complete a faculty-mentored Independent Study that demonstrates your technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Explore interdisciplinary interests through double majors, minors, and programs such as the Humanities, Arts & Creative Computing (HACC) minor.

A Community of Problem Solvers

At Wooster, Computer Science students don't just learn together—they build community. Research colloquia, programming competitions, hackathons, clubs such as Google Code Club and National Society of Black Engineers, and department gatherings throughout the year create opportunities to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and celebrate one another's successes.

Build a strong foundation in computing.

Computer Science students develop both the theoretical understanding and practical experience needed to succeed in a rapidly changing field.

The curriculum emphasizes:

Programming and software development
Algorithms and computational thinking
Mathematical foundations of computing
Software engineering
Independent research
Ethical and creative applications of technology

Every Computer Science major completes a two-semester Independent Study, designing and carrying out an original project under the guidance of a faculty mentor. The experience challenges students to investigate a topic of personal interest while developing the independent learning, technical expertise, and communication skills that define a Wooster education.

Students interested in complementing another major may also pursue a Computer Science Minor, gaining technical skills that enhance careers in business, the sciences, mathematics, digital media, economics, and many other fields.

Ready to Create What's Next?

Whether you're designing software, exploring artificial intelligence, solving scientific problems, or building new digital experiences, Computer Science at Wooster prepares you to innovate with confidence.

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Career Opportunities

Wooster Computer Science graduates have worked with companies including:

Google
Microsoft
Meta
Amazon
JPMorganChase
BlackRock

Many graduates also continue to leading graduate programs, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, Dartmouth College, Case Western Reserve University, Purdue University, The Ohio State University, and Indiana University, pursuing advanced study in computer science, computational physics, evolutionary computing, and related fields.

Key Areas

Software engineering

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Data science

Web and application development

Cybersecurity

Government and public sector technology

Consulting

Technology startups

Scientific computing

Alex Nord

Assistant Professor of Computer Science

anord@wooster.edu

Sofia Visa

Professor of Computer Science

svisa@wooster.edu

Dan Palmer

Professor and Department Chair of Computer Sciences

danpalmer@wooster.edu

John Musgrave

Visiting Assistant Professor of Computer Science

jmusgrave@wooster.edu

Heather Guarnera

Assistant Professor and Chair of the Computer Science Department

hguarnera@wooster.edu

Drew Guarnera

Assistant Professor of Computer Science

dguarnera@wooster.edu