What's the difference between the CS and AI degrees?
Two paths. Shared foundations. Different focus.
Both degrees build a strong foundation in computing. The difference lies in how that foundation is applied.
- Computer Science emphasizes breadth across systems, software, and theory
- Artificial Intelligence emphasizes depth in learning, perception, and data-driven systems
| BS in CS | BS in AI | |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | General-purpose computing | Specialized intelligent systems |
| Focus | Systems, software, theory | Learning, perception, reasoning |
| Core topics | Operating systems, software engineering, programming languages, databases, systems | Machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision |
| Electives | Eight structured tracks including AI & ML, Systems, Security, and Software Engineering | All CS electives, plus interdisciplinary options across engineering, humanities, and sciences |
| Math & statistics | Important | Central |
| Ethics | Exposure varies by course | Core requirement |
| Career prep | Broad computing careers across software, systems, infrastructure, security, data, and research | AI/ML-focused roles in intelligent systems, perception, language, and data-driven decision-making |
Which degree should I choose?
It depends on what you want to build.
Choose CS if:
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- you want flexibility across systems, software, and infrastructure
- you are interested in areas like operating systems, databases, or programming languages
Choose AI if:
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- you want to build systems that learn from data and make decisions
- you are excited about machine learning, computer vision, or language models
Can I switch between majors?
Designed to be flexible.
The two degrees share a common foundation, making it straightforward to switch between them early on.
- Minimal differences in lower-division requirements
- Switching typically requires only a small number of additional courses
- Little to no delay in graduation when planned early
However, the change of major applications into the AI program will not be accepted until the 2028–29 academic year. Students who want to enter the AI major for Fall 2026 should do so through the initial interest form process (see FAQ). If you are admitted to CS for Fall 2026 and are interested in AI, this is your earliest opportunity to join the program.