BS Computer Science

Overview

The BS Computer Science (BSCS) program is a 4-year, 8-semester undergraduate degree designed under the Higher Education Commission (HEC) curriculum framework. It equips students with strong foundations in programming, algorithms, databases, operating systems, networks, software engineering, and emerging fields like AI and cybersecurity. The program balances computing core, mathematics, general education, and electives, with a Final Year Project to apply knowledge. Graduates are prepared for careers in IT, software development, and research.

BS Computer Science — HEC Pakistan

Overview, Eligibility, Duration, Syllabus & key details (HEC/NCEAC aligned)

Duration
4 Years / 8 Semesters
Typical full-time pathway
Total Credits
137 Cr. Hrs
Per HEC/NCEAC
Capstone
Final Year Project (FYP)
Commonly 6 credit hours (I & II)
Accreditation
NCEAC (HEC)
Quality assurance for computing

1) Overview

The BS in Computer Science (BSCS) follows the Higher Education Commission (HEC) / National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC) curriculum model. Programs cover computing core (programming, data structures, algorithms, OS, DB, networking), domain core (e.g., automata, architecture, compilers, parallel/distributed), domain electives (AI, cybersecurity, data science, etc.), mathematics/supporting courses, and general education as required by HEC.

2) Eligibility Criteria (typical)

  • Intermediate/HSSC (e.g., ICS, F.Sc. Pre-Engineering) or A-Levels/equivalent with Mathematics.
  • Many universities consider F.Sc. Pre-Medical applicants if they complete prescribed Mathematics deficiency/bridging courses in early semesters.
  • Institutional entry test and/or interview as per university policy (e.g., ECAT for some public universities).
  • Minimum marks policy (often ≥ 50%) may apply; check the specific university’s admission rules.

Note: HEC provides national frameworks; exact admission rules vary by university.

3) Duration

Standard duration is 4 years (8 semesters) of full-time study. Summer terms, internships, and project work may be scheduled by the university.

4) Syllabus Structure (HEC/NCEAC model)

ComponentTypical Credit HoursExamples
Computing Core46 CHProgramming Fundamentals, OOP, DSA, DB, OS, Networks, SE, AI, COAL, InfoSec, FYP I–II
Domain Core18 CHTheory of Automata, HCI, Computer Architecture, Compilers, Parallel & Distributed
Domain Electives21 CHAI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Multimedia & Gaming, etc.
Mathematics & Supporting12 CHCalculus, Linear Algebra, Probability/Stats, Technical Report Writing
Elective Supporting3 CHIntro to Marketing / Accounting (example)
General Education (HEC)30 CH (minimum)English, Pakistan/Islamic Studies/Ethics, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Civics/Community, Entrepreneurship
Total137 CHHEC framework

5) Other Information

  • Accreditation: BSCS programs are accredited by the National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC) under HEC.
  • General Education: HEC Undergraduate Policy requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of General Education in all UG programs.
  • Credit Load & CGPA: Degree credit totals and CGPA requirements are require 137 CH and ≥2.0 CGPA.
  • Specializations: Common tracks include Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Multimedia & Gaming (availability varies).