Computer Science and Philosophy

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Philosophy is a joint program between the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Computer Science. It combines a solid grounding in computer science with courses in philosophy that will provide students with background in ethical frameworks used to address ethical and foundational issues raised by computer technology and AI. The program is aimed at preparing students for a variety of technical and professional careers which require a solid grounding in computer science supplemented with a deeper knowledge of the foundations on which those techniques are built. It develops strong analytical and writing skills that will be helpful in a quickly changing world. Graduates of this program will be particularly well-equipped to analyze and address social and ethical issues related to AI and privacy now and in the future.

In addition to the foundation set of skills and competencies you will gain in any liberal arts and science major, there are also unique skills and perspectives you gain from your Computer Science and Philosophy major. Review the list below to learn more:

• Gain knowledge of important ethical frameworks and their application to ethical and social issues arising out of the development of computer technology and artificial intelligence
• Understand the foundations of computation and develop competence with the logical tools on which computer technology is built
• Develop critical reasoning skills that allow for the evaluation of reasoning and arguments across a wide variety of contexts in a rapidly changing world
• Gain experience with the tools of philosophical analysis as applied to questions such as those concerning the nature of language, mind and knowledge
• Demonstrate the ability to write persuasively and clearly across a broad range of topics

There are many workplace settings, industries, and career areas you can apply your major based on your professional interests. Below is a sample list of industries that students in Computer Science and Philosophy may explore. What type of setting or career focus appeals to you?

• Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
• Business, Consulting, and Entrepreneurship
• Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Data Governance
• Education and Educational Technology
• Engineering and Technology
• Finance and Financial Technology (FinTech)
• Government, International Affairs, and Public Service
• Healthcare, Bioethics, and Health Technology
• Law, Policy, and Technology Regulation
• Marketing, Media, and Digital Communications
• Science, Research, and Innovation
• Social Impact, Ethics, and Advocacy