Why Study Scientific Computing?

Turn data, models, and code into scientific insight. Scientific Computing helps students apply computational tools to real-world challenges in science, engineering, and mathematics.

Solve Real Scientific Problems

Apply computational tools to questions in physics, biology, mathematics, engineering, and other STEM disciplines.

Build Technical Skills That Transfer

Develop programming, modeling, simulation, and data analysis skills valued in research, graduate study, and technical careers.

Learn Through Research

Work alongside faculty and peers on computational projects that connect classroom concepts to real scientific investigations.

What You’ll Study

Learn how scientists use computation to understand systems, analyze data, and test ideas. Coursework combines programming, mathematics, and modeling techniques with applications across the natural sciences and engineering.

In Demand-Skills:

  • Scientific programming (Python, MATLAB, and related tools)
  • Computational modeling and simulation
  • Numerical methods
  • Data analysis and visualization
  • Quantitative problem-solving

Comprehensive Curriculum

Students complete 20 credit hours, with courses in programming, applied mathematics, and computational methods, along with advanced electives in modeling, simulation, or data science applications.

View minor requirements in the course catalog

The minor works well with majors in:

Mathematics, computer science, and engineering science, or fields in physics and biology.

 

It’s a good fit for you if you:

  • Want to use computation to solve complex scientific and real-world problems.
  • Are interested in programming, data analysis, and mathematical modeling.
  • Want experience that combines theory, coding, and applied problem-solving.
  • Are considering careers connected to software development, data science, or scientific research.

Meet Your Faculty Mentors

Learn alongside dedicated mentors with real-world expertise.

Computer science faculty are avid researchers, with interests spanning a broad range of topics, including theory, ethics, security, simulation of physical and social systems, artificial intelligence and machine learning, bioinformatics, educational game design, mobile systems, and more.

Recent Graduate Careers

Scientific Computing prepares you to use computation as a tool for discovery, analysis, and innovation. Graduates apply these skills in research laboratories, technology organizations, healthcare systems, and graduate programs across STEM disciplines.

Scientific Research and Discovery

Use computational methods to model systems, analyze large datasets, and support scientific investigation.

Data and Computational Analysis

Transform complex data into actionable insights through modeling, visualization, and quantitative analysis.

Software and Technical Development

Build computational tools and software solutions that support research, engineering, and scientific applications.

Graduate Study and Advanced STEM Training

Continue developing expertise through graduate study in computer science, applied mathematics, engineering, data science, computational biology, and related fields.

Get Your Questions Answered

Students interested in the Scientific Computing minor should:

Talk with an academic adviser about how the minor fits into their degree. Explore introductory courses  Review the course catalog for detailed requirements.

Department of Computer Science

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Yu Zhang, Ph.D.