Computer Science & Innovation Major
Help create the digital future. Free your creativity, do real work right away, and fuel your passion for technology and innovation.
Visionaries Wanted
Explore the vast possibilities in Computer Science & Innovation and help shape the digital future. Whether you’re driven by curiosity, eager to build revolutionary software, or intrigued by the potential of artificial intelligence, our program will propel you into the dynamic field of technology, where you can solve some of the world’s complex challenges creatively with programming.
What Is Computer Science & Innovation?
Computer Science & Innovation combines the art of creativity with the power of technology. As a student in Champlain’s program, you’ll dive into the principles of computing and learn how to think creatively to solve real problems. You’ll be at the forefront of technological advancements, from coding and software development to cutting-edge technologies.
Why Study it at Champlain?
At Champlain College, studying Computer Science & Innovation goes beyond the classroom. Our program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, allowing you to apply what you learn in real-world settings through our four-course Innovation Sequence.
With small class sizes—15 students per class, on average—you’ll receive individualized support and attention from faculty every step of the way. Our strong industry connections provide internship opportunities, networking events, and access to the tools and technologies changing the industry. And our vibrant campus community and collaborative environment foster innovation and creativity.
Different by Design
Applied Learning
Our four-course Innovation Sequence emphasizes applied learning, equipping you with real-world experience and insight to excel in contemporary computing careers.
Specialized Niche Expertise
Pursue concentrations or minors in addition to the core curriculum, so you can specialize in your areas of interest and develop niche expertise.
Endless Opportunities
You’ll graduate with a world of opportunities ahead, including high starting salaries, excellent internship opportunities, and remarkable job placement and postgraduate education possibilities.
Sign Up To Get Stickers + Helpful Info
Sign up to receive helpful information about Champlain College—plus, we’ll send you a full sheet of stickers designed by one of our Graphic Design & Visual Communication graduates.
Facts & Stats
of Computer Science & Innovation majors in the Class of 2023 were employed within six months of graduation. That’s success you can see.
was the median starting salary of Computer Science & Innovation majors graduating in the Class of 2023.
Job growth for Computer and Information Research Scientists jobs expected between 2023 to 2033 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – MUCH faster than the 4% average for all occupations.
Sample Courses in the Computer Science & Innovation Curriculum
Check out some of the hands on and engaging courses in the program. Our Upside-Down Curriculum puts you right into your major, right away.
First Year
Concentrations
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Artificial Intelligence Concentration
Use human skills to drive machine action. Become an inspirational innovator in the world of artificial intelligence.
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Mobile App Development Concentration
Push the mobile app development field forward with advanced coding techniques and user-centric design, creating innovative experiences in a digital world.
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Software Engineering Concentration
Master the art of creating innovative, reliable, and scalable software solutions that have the power to revolutionize industries and our ways of life.
You might also be interested in these…
Based on your interest in the Computer Science & Innovation major, we thought you also might like to check out these other academic programs and opportunities.
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Majors
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Digital Forensics Major
Release your digital investigation skills. Adopt the investigator’s mindset, solve mysteries, and master artifact discovery with Digital Forensics at Champlain College.
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Computer Networking & Cybersecurity Major
For our digital future to be secure, information must be safe. Earn real-world experience in computer networking and cybersecurity at Champlain College, and prepare yourself for a vital role protecting society from cyber threats.
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Game Programming Major
Create successful games, build your portfolio, and learn programming within a creative gaming culture when you major in Game Programming at Champlain College.
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Interaction Design Major
Tomorrow’s technology requires good design to be usable. Specialize in user experience (UX) or user interface (UI) design at Champlain, and create new intersections between human minds and digital spaces.
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Minors
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Computer & Digital Forensics Minor
Analyze digital information, navigate the realm of digital security, and form a strong foundation working with computers in the Computer & Digital Forensics minor.
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Computer Science Minor
Analyze problems, develop software systems, and use a variety of tools to evaluate computer programs and bring your innovations to realization in the Computer Science minor.
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Information Technology Minor
Identify core computer networking and infrastructure components and the roles they serve to supplement business, creative, and other professional pursuits.
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Mathematics Minor
Acquire a solid foundation in mathematics theory, techniques, and applications that will inform work in your chosen career, and boost your résumé to help you get there.
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UI Design & Implementation Minor
Bridge the gap between design and software development. Create dynamic designs and implement them with code for mobile apps, web apps, and other forms of electronic media.
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Areas of Study
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Cybersecurity, Computer Science & Digital Technology
Solve everyday problems to build a better future with one of these tech-centered majors.
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Education, Humanities & the Sciences
The born educator, the team player, the change maker, the advocate. Which of these human-centered majors fits you career goals?
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Individualized Studies & Undeclared
Learn what you love, and love what you learn with one of these professional pathways.
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What is the Innovation Sequence?
The Innovation Sequence is a distinctive series of four courses in our Computer Science & Innovation program that specifically focus on emerging technologies and computing trends—it’s the “Innovation” part of the program, if you will. Through studying topics such as open-source software development, emerging languages, and artificial intelligence, you’ll gain valuable skills and insights that are in high demand in today’s rapidly evolving tech industry.
The Innovation Sequence is designed for you to be well-positioned to stand out in a competitive job market and make meaningful contributions in the field. Learn more about the Innovation Sequence courses:
- Innovation I: Introduction to Emerging Technologies
- Innovation II: Open Source Software Development
- Innovation III: Emerging Languages
- Innovation IV: Topics in Artificial Intelligence
Computer Configuration Requirements and Recommendations
Computer Science & Innovation Majors require laptops with the following minimum specifications for 2024/2025.
- 12th or 13th generation i5 Intel Microprocessor, Apple M2 Microprocessor, or AMD Ryzen 6000+ mobile series (U series)
- 16 GB RAM
- 512 GB SSD
- Webcam
- USB-C Video Output Port
Example Models for 2024/2025
- Dell Inspiron 16 ($849 as configured above)
- Apple M2 MacBook Air ($1699 as configured above)
Career Success
The Computer Science & Innovation program will prepare you for today’s computing careers. 92% of CSI majors in the Class of 2023 were employed within six months of graduation.
Your Career Outlook
By the time you graduate, you will…
- Have a comprehensive understanding of computer science principles and practices.
- Possess the ability to develop innovative software solutions for real-world challenges.
- Be skilled in utilizing emerging technologies and adapting to evolving trends.
- Have gained hands-on experience through projects and collaborations, preparing you for a successful career in the tech industry.
You’ll Find a Career In…
- Software development and engineering
- Web and mobile application development
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Data analysis and visualization
- Cybersecurity and information assurance
- IT consulting and project management
- Technology research and innovation
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Pre-College Summer Program: Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics AcademyThe Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics Academy offers students an in-depth learning experience in the field of cybersecurity and digital forensics. Students work together to solve real digital forensics problems faced by law enforcement agencies all over America and gain hands-on learning experience from veterans of the cybersecurity industry in this pre-college summer program.
This program is designed for students entering grades 10–12 and recent high school graduates.
Learn More on the Pre-College Summer Program Website
Latest News from The View
More Inside Computer Science & Innovation Major
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Overview
Help create the digital future. Free your creativity, do real work right away, and fuel your passion for technology and innovation.
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Curriculum
Launch your Computer Science & Innovation career with Champlain’s Upside-Down Curriculum. Experience the transformative power of starting early on success.
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Faculty
Gain expertise and guidance from our faculty in Computer Science & Innovation. Join a community of passionate educators committed to your success.