The Computer Science program is focused on helping students gain the necessary skills requisite to being productive leaders in the computing and related industries. As such, our graduates are expected to be highly competent, well-qualified computer professionals, having a broad training in software development, as well as being well prepared for graduate study.
The Computer Science program seeks to work in close cooperation with the computing industry, as well as with other universities and alumni, to provide a modern Computer Science curriculum. The cooperative environment will be evidenced, for example, by the creation of partnerships with regional and international universities and institutions and a seminar series with speakers drawn from both academia and industry.
The Computer Science curriculum is designed according to ACM/IEEE recommendations. It enables students to meet the following skill or competency-based student outcomes and show mastery of computer science knowledge and skills:
*demonstrate an understanding of and ability to apply current theories, models, techniques and technologies that provide a basis for problem solving;
*work as an effective individual and as part of a team to develop and deliver quality software;
*communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
*be aware of key ethical issues affecting computer science and the responsibilities of computer science professionals;
*learn new theories, models, techniques and technologies as they emerge and appreciate the necessity of such continuing professional development.
Some of our graduates have gone on and successfully completed postgraduate degree programs in prestigious universities in the USA and Europe such as Stanford University, MIT and Johns Hopkins University in the USA, and Oxford University and University College, London in the UK. Others have joined international companies such as Microsoft, Google, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, and Accenture. Still others have established their own successful software development companies such as Telerik, Melon, EastiSoft, MammothDB and Transmetrics.
If you’ve never heard of Blagoevgrad, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Rough Guide to Bulgaria named the town the ‘coolest place in southwest Bulgaria,’ and with good reason.
It’s a small, vibrant university town (20,000 of the 80,000 residents are students!) within easy reach of the capital Sofia (a 1hr drive or easy bus ride away.)
There’s something for everyone in Blagoevgrad; the restored old quarter bustles with cafes and bars in a lively cultural scene set against beautiful architecture.
In town, you’ll be spoilt with 2.5km of leafy park alley for strolling, a fascinating historical museum and a rich program of events. Nightclubs, opera, restaurants and over 100 theater performances per year keep the lively population entertained.
It’s easy to get away and experience some of Bulgaria’s most stunning natural attractions too: the spa town of Sandanski, the Seven Lakes of Rila and two world-class ski resorts are close by. There are biking adventures to be had around town, and fans of hiking can take in some breathtaking views on foot.
For those seeking adventures further afield, you’ll be happy to find Macedonia on the doorstep (30km) and the delights of Greece only an hour’s drive away.
Please note that we do not book flights for our students. If you are researching airfare costs, we recommend using Kayak.com, a search engine that lets you compare flight options from your home country to Blagoevgrad based on your budget, schedule and preferences.
