To meet the significant and growing demand for C++ and Java software development specialists, the Certificate in Computer Science at Boston University’s Metropolitan College (MET) provides the skills necessary to become part of a C++ or Java development team. Graduates of the part-time program also acquire the background required to enter the software engineering certificate program and the Master of Science in Computer Science degree program.
Program at a Glance
- On Campus
- Part-Time
- 16 Credits
- 8–12 Months to Completion
A Foundation for Success in Computer Science
Metropolitan College’s Computer Science Certificate will equip you with:
- Knowledge of discrete mathematics, computer architecture, and the programming languages C++ or Java.
- Proficiency in introductory discrete mathematics and algorithms, computer architecture, and the use of common constructs in C++ or Java, including common data structures.
- Competence sufficient to be able to learn more advanced algorithms, system architecture, and C++ or Java features.

Computer Science Career Outlook
Top computer science careers in data science, software development, and other popular areas of IT.
Learn moreWhy Complete Your Certificate in Computer Science at BU?
- Active Learning Environment: BU MET’s Computer Science Certificate program provides practical, hands-on education that you can apply on the job.
- Engaged Faculty: In BU MET’s Computer Science Certificate program, an exceptional student-to-instructor ratio ensures close interaction with highly qualified faculty who draw from active research and substantial professional achievements in areas such as data science, web programming, databases, and security and privacy.
- Extensive Network: Study principles of computer science alongside peers with professional experience, learn from faculty who have valuable information technology contacts, and benefit from a global alumni community with strong connections.
- Student Support: Benefit from access to personalized professional academic advice from the team of academic counselors in MET Enrollment & Student Success.
- Valuable Resources: Make use of Boston University’s extensive resources, including the Center for Career Development, Educational Resource Center, Fitness & Recreation Center, IT Help Centers, Mugar Memorial Library, the Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground, the George Sherman Union, and many others.
- Flexible Schedule: Pursue your studies part-time, at the pace that works for you.
- Affordable Tuition: Complete your certificate part-time at BU at a substantial savings compared to full-time study.
- Financial Assistance: Undergraduate students at BU MET are eligible for a range of financial aid and community-minded scholarship opportunities designed to support those investing in their education part-time who still need to navigate full-time responsibilities.
Flexible, Part-Time Program Completion—at Boston University
Boston University’s Metropolitan College offers a wide range of undergraduate certificate and bachelor’s degree completion programs in convenient, part-time evening formats—ideal for busy professionals who seek to earn a Boston University degree without turning their personal lives upside down or putting their careers on hold. Along with self-paced programs in a variety of majors on campus, MET also offers the Online Undergraduate Degree Completion Program, leading to a bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies.
A variety of undergraduate certificate programs provide the opportunity for focused study in a specific subject. Certificates can work into select degree programs at MET, offer breadth to current studies, or build professional skills and knowledge.
Certificate in Computer Science Program Curriculum
Prerequisites
MET CS 201 Introduction to Programming or equivalent experience.
Courses
(Four courses/16 credits)
Choose one of the following tracks:
Java Programming Track
MET CS 232 Programming with Java
MET CS 248 Discrete Mathematics
MET CS 342 Data Structures with Java
MET CS 472 Computer Architecture
C++ Programming Track
MET CS 231 Programming with C
MET CS 248 Discrete Mathematics
MET CS 341 Data Structures with C
MET CS 472 Computer Architecture
View Computer Science courses.
Computer Science Faculty
View All Faculty
Tuition & Financial Assistance
Competitive Tuition
Our part-time rates are substantially lower than those of the traditional, full-time residential programs yet provide access to the same high-quality BU education.Comprehensive Financial Assistance
Our services include scholarships, graduate loans, and payment plans.
Get Started
Please visit the BU MET admissions page for details on how to apply, financial assistance, tuition and fees, requirements for international students, and more.
What to Read Next: MET Computer Science & IT Knowledge Center
- How Long Does a Master’s in Computer Science Take to Complete—and What is the Cost?
- Why Get a Master’s Degree in Computer Science at BU MET?
- What Do My Career Options Look Like with a Master’s in Computer Science from BU’s Metropolitan College?
- Are There Different Computer Science Graduate Programs or Specializations at BU?
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