Computer Science

Computer science powers nearly every modern industry, driving how data is processed, systems are automated and software solutions scale. Employers are looking for engineers and scientists who understand how computing works under the hood and how to apply it to real technical problems.

At Colorado School of Mines, the Computer Science minor gives you a strong foundation in computational thinking, programming and problem solving. This minor helps you work more effectively with code, algorithms, and digital systems that show up across engineering and applied science. It is designed to complement technically focused majors and help you apply computing tools with confidence.

Adding this minor to your bachelor’s degree shows you can think logically, work with data and build solutions that scale. These skills are valuable across engineering, science, business and research and they continue to grow in importance as systems become more connected and data-driven.

Program Overview

The Computer Science minor introduces you to the fundamentals of computer science, including programming, algorithms, data structures and software development. It complements your primary major by equipping you with essential computational skills and problem-solving abilities applicable across various industries.

You’ll learn how to break down complex problems, design efficient solutions and implement them in code. Coursework emphasizes both conceptual understanding and hands-on practice. You gain experience writing and testing programs while developing habits that support long term maintainability and performance.

When you graduate, you add stronger computational confidence, logical problem-solving skills and software literacy to your bachelor’s degree, all of which support a wide range of technical careers.

Program Options

The Computer Science minor, offered through the Department of Computer Science, is designed to complement a wide range of majors and expand your technical skillset in meaningful ways. Whether you’re studying engineering, applied science, business or another discipline, this minor gives you a strong foundation in programming, algorithms and computational thinking—skills that are increasingly essential across industries.

• Core courses focus on programming fundamentals and computational thinking.
• Electives allow you to explore areas such as algorithms, systems or applied computing depending on availability and interest.