Applying to the program.
Below, you'll find the essential information you need to prepare a strong application to our undergraduate program, including qualifications, expectations, and application steps.
The Application Process
Here’s what you need to apply (also known as “affiliate”) based on where you are in the process.
Becoming a Bowers major.
Details for Computer Science affiliation requirements for current College of Arts & Sciences students can be found on the University Catalog.
view affiliation requirements
Application Timeline
Cornell A&S students can apply (also known as "affiliate") to the major after fulfilling the Bowers requirements:
Pro-tip: You can also apply while you are enrolled in the last courses you need to affiliate. Your application will be reviewed after that semester’s final grades are posted.
Application Processing Schedule
- Submit Jan 1 - May 31 → Decision by July 1
- Submit Jun 1 - Dec 31 → Decision by mid-January
Studying Computer Science at Cornell.
Bowers gives students interested in majoring in Computer Science at Cornell two options:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) through the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S)
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) through Cornell Engineering
If you’re interested in pursuing the B.A. in Computer Science, you should apply directly to A&S. While you’ll indicate your interest in CS on the common app, admission is to A&S itself and not directly to the major. This path combines CS studies with Cornell’s liberal arts curriculum.
Once you’re enrolled at Cornell, you’ll complete a set of prerequisite courses before applying to (also known as “affiliating with”) the CS major.
Cornell A&S students typically apply to (also known as “affiliate with”)the major during the second semester of their second year.
See the “Cornell Students” tab for more details.
Explore your degree options.
You can pursue a computer science degree through Cornell Engineering (EN) or the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S). This program is offered through the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S).
A&S | EN | |
|---|---|---|
Degree Awarded | Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
Overview | Best for students who wish to enrich their degree with liberal arts study. | Best for students who wish to enrich their degree with engineering and science. |
Degree Similarities | As with EN, you’re required to complete core computer science courses, a practicum or project, technical electives, and external specialization courses. | As with A&S, you’re required to complete core computer science courses, a practicum or project, technical electives, and external specialization courses. |
Degree Differences | Course requirements include a required foreign language and distribution areas across A&S. | Course requirements include required science courses and distribution areas across EN. |
