A minor in computer science provides industrial engineering students with essential skills in programming, algorithms, and computational problem-solving—competencies that are increasingly valuable across all areas of engineering, analytics, and system design. The program deepens understanding of software development, data structures, and algorithmic thinking, preparing students to apply computing tools in system modeling, automation, and data analysis. The program is readily achievable as part of the Computer and Information Systems focus area.

Computing proficiency dramatically broadens career options for industrial engineers. Graduates who combine engineering systems expertise with computer science skills are in high demand for roles in data analytics, automation, operations technology, and software development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computing and information technology occupations is projected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Common job titles include systems analyst, data engineer, software integration specialist, and simulation developer. This combination of industrial engineering and computer science uniquely prepares students to design, implement, and optimize the intelligent systems that define the modern workplace.

Courses Required for Computer Science Minor
Required for computer science minor

SH

Equivalent for IE majors

SH

CS:1210 Computer Science I: Fundamentals

4

 ENGR:1300 and ENGR:2730 (take ENGR:2730 as an ISE systems elective)

 7

CS:2210 Discrete Structures

3

Additional course or FA elective

 3

CS:2230 Computer Science II: Data Structures

4

Additional course or FA elective

 4

CS:3330 Algorithms

3

Additional course or FA elective

3

CS:3210 Programming Languages and Tools

or

CS:3980 Topics in Computer Science I

3

Additional course or FA elective

3

Total hours required:

17 

Total hours required:

20

 

Computer science minor