COURSE CURRICULUM

Across the four programs you shared—Computer Science BA (BACS), Computer Science BS (BSCS), Crime and Justice Studies BA (CJS), and Information Technology and Cybersecurity BS (BSITC)—the main difference is the direction your career path takes rather than just “difficulty.” Both CS degrees (BA and BS) are software-heavy, but the BSCS is more theory-driven and math-intensive, especially with calculus, discrete math, algorithms, and sometimes physics/linear algebra, making it the stronger option for roles like software engineer, AI/ML, systems developer, or for graduate study. The BA in Computer Science is still a real programming degree, but it trades some advanced math depth for more flexibility in electives, making it easier to pair with other interests like business, design, or a minor while still targeting web development, app development, or general software roles. The IT & Cybersecurity degree is more applied and industry-focused, emphasizing networking, system administration, security attacks/defense, forensics, and infrastructure protection; it tends to lead more directly into jobs like cybersecurity analyst, SOC analyst, IT security specialist, or network administrator, often with strong demand and faster job entry but slightly less emphasis on deep algorithms and theoretical computing. The Crime and Justice Studies degree is fundamentally different—it is not a tech or coding-heavy program, but a social science degree focused on law enforcement systems, criminology, courts, corrections, ethics, and policy; it can lead to careers in policing, corrections, legal support, public administration, or further law-related study, but it does not naturally prepare you for software or IT roles. In simple terms: BSCS = hardest and most technical (highest ceiling in tech jobs), BACS = flexible software degree, ITC = job-ready cybersecurity/IT pathway, and CJS = law-and-society career track with minimal tech focus. Your “best” choice depends on whether you want deep coding/engineering (CS), faster applied IT/security entry (ITC), or non-tech justice and law careers (CJS).