CS + X Degree Programs
The University of Illinois has designed an innovative degree option, called CS + X, that allows students to pursue a flexible program of study incorporating a strong grounding in computer science with technical or professional training in the arts and sciences.
Computing is ubiquitous, with application areas in virtually any field imaginable – from developing gene-sequencing algorithms, to designing methods for high frequency trading, creating computer-generated graphics and special effects, analyzing social data from internet communications, and creating embedded real-time systems for medical devices.
In fact, according to the National Science Foundation, "[K]nowledge of computer science and computer programming is becoming a necessary skill... in marketing, advertising, journalism, and the creative arts."
After earning their CS + X degrees, our graduates are poised to launch their careers or pursue graduate studies in a wide variety of fields.
CS + X Programs
Please note that students interested in the Mathematics or Statistics programs with Computer Science should apply for the Mathematics & Computer Science or the Statistics & Computer Science degrees.
All computer science programs prefer students to be on a calculus track, having either precalculus or calculus by their senior year in high school. Applicants applying to the Computer Science program in The Grainger College of Engineering should demonstrate teamwork and interpersonal communication skills along with an interest in improving society through engineering. Applicants applying to any of the CS+ programs should demonstrate genuine interest in the ‘+’ aspect of the major. You can find more details about the major-specific review criteria as well as our holistic review process for first-year applicants on the Office of Undergraduate Admissions website.
CS Undergraduate Degree Options FAQ
Is a CS undergraduate degree right for you?
How is CS + X different from our bachelor's degree from The Grainger College of Engineering?
CS + X Degree Requirements, Flowcharts, and Planning Forms
Find the requirements and forms for each college that has partnered with Grainger Engineering to find the path that is right for you.
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"The University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign is updating and reinvigorating a number of traditional majors by combining them with computer science. The reasoning is that liberal-arts, arts, and agricultural fields increasingly encompass data analysis that requires computer-science skills.”
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"Like a number of colleges across the country, the University of Illinois is ramping up its efforts to equip students with the ideal combination of strong technology acumen and solid creative and interpersonal skills – a combo that many employers say they want in their new hires. ”
Guaranteed Admission to the Online MCS or MCS-DS
If you complete any CS or CS+X major or a CS minor at UIUC with a GPA of 3.0 or better in the last two years of your undergraduate degree and a GPA of 3.2 or better in CS courses, you are guaranteed admission to our Online MCS or MCS in Data Science (MCS-DS) programs.
Recent UIUC graduates may qualify for an application fee waiver!
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