Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing at the University of Kansas is an interdisciplinary undergraduate degree designed for students who want to build strong technical computing skills while applying them directly to another field of study. Rather than focusing solely on abstract theory or narrowly defined software development paths, applied computing emphasizes using programming, data analysis, and computational tools to solve real-world problems across disciplines.

At its core, this program provides the same foundational preparation expected of a modern computing degree, including programming, algorithms, software engineering, and computational problem-solving. What differentiates applied computing is the intentional integration of these skills with domain-specific knowledge, allowing students to graduate with both technical expertise and contextual understanding that employers increasingly value.

Students in the applied computing program complete a shared technical core that develops proficiency in programming languages, computational thinking, and software design. This foundation prepares students to approach complex problems systematically, write efficient and maintainable code, and understand how computing systems operate at scale. For students interested in a major in computer science that offers broader application beyond traditional software roles, applied computing provides a highly adaptable and career-oriented pathway.

A defining feature of the applied computing degree is the way computing is embedded into a second discipline through carefully structured concentrations. Students select one of six interdisciplinary areas—astronomy, biology, chemistry, economics, journalism, or physics, each of which shapes how computing skills are applied throughout the curriculum.

  • Astronomy: Students concentrating in astronomy use computational methods to analyze astrophysical data, simulate celestial systems, and support scientific research.
  • Biology: In the biology concentration, applied computing students focus on computational approaches to biological systems, data analysis, and modeling.
  • Chemistry: The chemistry concentration integrates computing with chemical research and analysis.
  • Economics: Students who choose the economics concentration apply computing skills to economic modeling, data analysis, and quantitative research.
  • Journalism: The journalism concentration emphasizes the application of computing in media, communication, and storytelling.
  • Physics: In the physics concentration, students use computational modeling and numerical methods to analyze physical systems.

Learn more about KU

Undergraduate

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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.

Applied Computing, BS

KU School of Engineering

The Bachelor’s in Applied Computing is part of the School of Engineering, where new technologies are developed to solve the problems facing the world.

Bachelor’s in Applied Computing Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the applied computing program will learn to:

  • Apply computing principles to real-world problems
  • Demonstrate technical proficiency
  • Collaborate on multidisciplinary teams
  • Integrate domain knowledge with computing tools
  • Engage in lifelong learning
  • Demonstrate ethical responsibility

What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Applied Computing?

A degree in applied computing prepares graduates for careers across industries. According to Lightcast, computing-related occupations show strong demand and competitive computer science degree salary outcomes.

Common job titles include:

  • Software Developer
  • Data Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Bioinformatics Specialist
  • Financial Systems Analyst
  • Computational Scientist
  • IT Consultant
  • Journalism Technology Specialist

Tuition and Financial Aid

KU offers competitive tuition and financial aid options for students pursuing applied computing. For more information, visit KU Financial Aid.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the applied computing program at KU requires meeting general university freshman and transfer admission standards. This includes:

Freshmen

  • 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
  • Demonstrate mathematics preparedness by:
    • Obtaining a mathematics ACT score of 22+ (or math SAT score of 540+), OR
    • Achieving a B or better in college algebra or a more advanced mathematics course, OR
    • Achieving a C or better in a high school calculus course; OR
    • Earning credit via IB or AP credit for the above-mentioned courses in accordance with KU placement credit requirements; OR
    • Achieving at minimum a qualifying score for MATH 104 on the ALEKS mathematics placement exam.

Transfers

  • Earn a grade of C- or better in MATH 125 (Calculus I, or its direct equivalent), AND
  • Earn grades of C or better in math, science, and engineering courses applicable to the engineering degree.

For detailed admission requirements, visit the School of Engineering.

Student Life and Learning Experience

Students engage through organizations such as KU Supercomputing Club, Women in Computing, and the KU Artificial Intelligence Organization.

  • KU Supercomputing club – Engage in coding challenges, networking events, and career workshops.
  • Women in Computing – A community supporting diversity in the field of computing.
  • KU Artificial Intelligence Organization – Focuses on artificial intelligence, big data, and machine learning applications.

Bachelor’s in Applied Computing Sample Courses

The Applied Computing program offers a diverse curriculum tailored to each concentration. Sample courses include:

  • Programming I
  • Software Engineering I
  • Programming Paradigms
  • Calculus I

Together, these courses support both technical depth and interdisciplinary application consistent with modern computer science degree courses. For a comprehensive list of courses and detailed descriptions, please review the KU Catalog.

Bachelor’s in Applied Computing Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply?

Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.

How long will it take to complete the degree?

Students typically complete this degree in four years.

Contact Information

KU Admissions studyengineering@ku.edu 785-864-3881

Accreditation & Notes

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria with no applicable program criteria.

A Bachelor of Science in Applied Computing is the official degree awarded, and references to “applied computing degree” or similar terms are used for clarity and student understanding.