Computer Science
Mathematics, statistics, and computer science will provide you with ways to describe the world we live in and our relationship to it. They are structural mechanisms providing context for speculation and discovery, important tools for illuminating theories and implementing techniques from other disciplines, and art forms exhibiting aesthetic values.
Why Choose a Degree in Computer Science?
Computer science is an integral part of a liberal arts education. Our program prides itself on fostering a diverse community of students and faculty, where everyone is welcomed. You will graduate with a degree in computer science while being encouraged to engage deeply with the practice, passion, communication, and context of mathematical inquiry.
What You’ll Study
We offer two computer science majors (computer science and computer science and mathematics), one minor (computer science), and one optional cybersecurity concentration through the Department of Mathematical Sciences. At the heart of our curriculum are the development of conceptual and computational intuition, sophistication in the analysis of complicated structures, and the interplay of these two with broadly based sets of technical skills and techniques. Many of our students earn course credit toward their computer science degree while on an overseas program.
Outside the classroom, we sponsor an annual math hike on Mount Hood or at the Oregon Coast. The physical layout of our department includes a space where students can gather in close proximity to faculty offices to study, socialize, and share a meal. We host a regular colloquium series featuring presentations by students, faculty, and guest speakers. We regularly participate in the William Lowell Putnam undergraduate mathematics competition, the COMAP Mathematical Contest in Modeling, the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest, and cybersecurity competitions NCL and PRCCDC. Our faculty mentor students in research experiences during the academic year and through the paid Rogers Summer Science Program.
Complement Your Education With One of These Minors
The most popular minors for our computer science majors are data science, entrepreneurial leadership and innovation, and philosophy.
What Students Are Saying About Lewis & Clark
Kepa Seward BA ’21More about KepaIf you have a drive and a dream, then there are resources and people who will help you on your path.
Blythe Ballesteros BA ’20More about BlytheI chose to transfer to Lewis & Clark because of the diverse staff, friendly community, and the beautiful campus. Most of all, I knew Lewis & Clark would challenge me academically and help me to grow to be the best person that I can be.
Katie Shimaura BA ’24More about KatieI love that computer science and mathematics are so closely related. I find that it is always cool to use my computer science background when I am working through a math problem, or vice versa!
What Can You Do With a Degree in Computer Science?
Our alumni use their BA in computer science in a variety of careers in research, academia, and at companies such as Nike, Suplari, Downstream, and Mentor Graphics. Many start their own companies, or go on to pursue advanced degrees.
Dedicated Faculty
Our expert professors are your expert mentors. You will learn directly from faculty (no graduate assistants here!) that are nationally recognized in their fields of study and who love to work with and learn from their students. Your professors will inspire you to be a thoughtful and passionate participant in a diverse world. Your small classes will support you as you explore new ideas, find your voice, and speak your truth.
Invest in Yourself
A private liberal arts education is often more affordable than you think. Last year, Lewis & Clark distributed over $74 million in assistance from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. Additionally, we’re so confident that our first-year students will graduate in four years with their bachelor of arts degree that if you don’t, we’ll cover the extra semester of tuition.
There are several scholarships and funds specifically for students in the mathematical sciences. The Mathematical Sciences Student Assistance and Enrichment Fund provides assistance to eligible students with financial need and recognizes an outstanding graduating senior in the department. The Isaac Clark Memorial Fund for Physics and Mathematical Sciences provides grants for various educational opportunities for students in physics and mathematical sciences who demonstrate strong academic and leadership skills.
Find Your People
The student-run Math Club and the student chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery organize social and academic events, including panels and a pumpkin-carving contest held shortly before Halloween.
Justin Howerton BA ’21More about JustinI’ve found that my interdisciplinary undergraduate study has equipped me with the skills necessary to thrive in both corporate and academic environments. I owe my success to the devoted faculty members who advised me to always pursue that which stokes my curiosity.
Hanna Lyubinina BA ’19More about HannaL&C taught me the critical thinking and analytical skills that I have needed in order to devise creative solutions to problems in both my personal and professional life. The ability to pull from many areas of study and make connections between multiple disciplines is invaluable in my field.
Christopher Karagiannis BA ’20More about ChristopherL&C provided a highly collaborative environment and interactions that have helped me be much better prepared for the interpersonal part of the workplace, while still giving me all of the knowledge I needed to succeed.
Featured News
Paid Summer Research Enables Faculty-Student Collaboration
Over the summer, Lewis & Clark offers students paid, hands-on research experiences that rival those of graduate-level institutions.