Computer Science + Music, BS
for the degree of Bachelor of Science Major in Computer Science + Music

CS + Music will prepare students for advanced study at the graduate level for many existing programs on music and audio technology, as well as equip them with the proper skills to successfully join and lead a vibrant workforce community centered around the creation and distribution of entertainment media through constantly evolving technology platforms.

The CS + Music, blended bachelor's degree, is a partnership between the Department of Computer Science in The Grainger College of Engineering and the Department of Music in the College of Fine + Applied Arts. As part of the computing community at Illinois, you will benefit from being part of a top-five-ranked Computer Science program with world-class faculty and research. Learn more about the Department's Rankings and Statistics.

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Degree Requirements

See requirements and curriculum map.

Course Catalog

College of FAA

Learn more and how to apply.

Program Page

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Frequently Asked Questions

Explore common questions and answers.

FAQ

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CS Student Life

With 800+ student organizations and many CS Student Groups, there's a community for everyone at Illinois.

Student Organizations

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Undergraduate Research

Participate in high-impact semester, year-round, or summer research, mentorship, and showcase opportunities.

Research Opportunities

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Career Services

Explore comprehensive career services supporting internships, job searches, and resume development. 

Career Information

Curriculum Map

The curriculum sequence mapped below is a sample sequence. Students will work with a department academic advisor to achieve educational goals specific to their needs and preparation.

  • Course prerequisite chain
  • Immediate prerequisite
  • Credit or concurrent registration required
  • Concurrent registration required
  • Postrequisite course sequence
Computer Science + Music Curriculum Map
First YearSecond YearThird YearFourth Year
Fall First YearSpring First YearFall Second YearSpring Second YearFall Third YearSpring Third YearFall Fourth YearSpring Fourth Year

Notes

Before reviewing the links, students should find their effective Academic Catalog Year. When clicking any links referenced below that take students to the Academic Catalog Year pages, they should be mindful of which Academic Catalog year is displayed.

  1. MATH 220 may be substituted. MATH 220 is appropriate for students with no background in calculus. 4 of 5 credit hours count towards degree.
  2. RHET 105 (or an alternative Composition I sequence) is taken either in the first or second semester of the first year, according to the student's UIN (Spring if UIN is Odd). General Education Elective is taken the other semester. Composition I guidelines can be found at Degree and General Education Requirements under Written Communication Requirement.
  3. General education: Students must complete the Campus General Education requirements including the campus general education language requirement.
  4. CS 340 and two (2) CS technical electives (400 level CS courses) can be use to substiute the CS 233 and CS 341 requirements. The 2 technical electives must be distinct from courses used to satisfy other major requirements and can replace Free Electives.
  5. MATH 225 may be substituted.
  6. Students who are more interested in systems building can substitute CS 427 for CS 361.
  7. Additional coursework, subject to College of Fine and Applied Arts restrictions free electives, so that there are at least 120 credit hours earned toward the degree.

The code used to present this flowsheet is based on original work shared by the University at Buffalo School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.