Undergraduate Programs

Our undergraduate majors in artificial intelligence and computer science provide students with a strong foundation in computing and technology, preparing them for careers in industry or further study in graduate school. 

Two undergraduate majors: AI and CS

The Department of Computer Science now offers two distinct undergraduate pathways: Computer Science (CS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students interested in CS can choose between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a major in Computer Science or a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS), whereas students interested in AI can complete a Bachelor of Science (BS) with a major in Artificial Intelligence.

Both paths provide students with a strong foundation in computing and technology, preparing them for careers in industry or further study in graduate school. The CS major provides a broad, classical foundation in computing, with a strong emphasis on software engineering and a deeper dive into how computer systems and programming languages work. The AI major provides a more specialized focus on the mathematics and technologies used to develop systems that can perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence, and draws on interdisciplinary perspectives from fields such as philosophy and psychology.

The curriculum for first-year students is very similar across the two pathways, leaving students the flexibility to wait until their second year to choose their path. Students who want to keep both options open should aim to take linear algebra during their freshman year, as it is required for both degrees but is a prerequisite for the second-year AI sequence. Students can also feasibly start either pathway during their second year and complete either major on a condensed three-year schedule, though close communication with a major advisor is recommended in this case.

Rice AI Major

AI Undergraduate Program

Housed and overseen by the Department of Computer Science, the Artificial Intelligence major focuses on creating systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and multi-modal understanding. Artificial intelligence is specifically concerned with developing algorithms and models that enable machines to mimic cognitive functions. Students develop proficiency in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and intelligent systems.

Rice CS Student Studying

CS Undergraduate Program

Our undergraduate curricula introduce students to the emerging fields of computer science and at the same time provide them with solid training in its foundations. Our Computer Science alumni are recruited by global giants like Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta and Microsoft as well as smaller companies and government agencies. They also create dynamic startups and non-profit endeavors. Rice CS alumni who discovered a passion for research and teaching push the frontiers of science at leading universities. Where will you go with your CS degree?