Computer Science Major

Why Choose Computer Science at LAS

Computer Science is the second most popular major at Touro LAS, and it’s easy to see why. Students are drawn in by the logic, creativity, and problem-solving at the heart of tech, and they stay because the program delivers practical, values-aligned preparation for high-paying, in-demand job opportunities. 

Our curriculum is built on a strong foundation in software development, data structures, and backend programming, and we’re expanding our offerings to include AI, machine learning, and cloud computing. You’ll also explore emerging tools like retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), vector databases, and orchestration libraries such as LangChain and LlamaIndex — tech reshaping how intelligent systems store, retrieve, and generate information.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of software developers, QA analysts, and testers is projected to grow 17% by 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. We’re here to make sure our students can answer that demand.

Meet the Computer Science Faculty

Our professors are developers, researchers, and engineers who understand what today’s tech jobs demand and how to get you there. Here are some of the faculty you’ll learn from: 

Professor Shmuel Fink has been a member of the Touro faculty since 1993 and serves as Deputy Chair of the Computer Science Department. With industry experience at IBM, Xerox, and more, he brings decades of leadership and technical insight to the program. He’s known for mentoring both students and faculty, and for ensuring the curriculum stays aligned with evolving tech demands.

Professor Yitzchak Novick specializes in data structures, complexity theory, and object-oriented programming. With a background in software development and research on complex graphs, Professor Novick is known for his interactive teaching style and dedication to student success in and out of the classroom.

Professor Shmuel Abrahamson focuses on introductory programming, app development, and data automation. He brings real-world experience from the education-tech sector and uses a flipped classroom model to give students more time for personalized support during class.

Professor Jacqueline Spiegel-Cohen is a former software engineer in medical imaging and data analytics, Professor Spiegel-Cohen teaches courses in data structures and databases. Her classes are known for joyful, interactive learning and real-world applications of computer science theory.

You’ll be paired with a faculty advisor who helps you stay on track, plan your schedule, and explore internships, graduate school, or launching your career. From course planning to career coaching, the advising experience is purposeful, personal, and built to support your goals.

Course Spotlight: Database Concepts & Design

If you love organizing, optimizing, or analyzing data, you’ll thrive in our Database Concepts & Design (MCON 343) course. This hands-on class introduces you to SQL, relational database theory, and the tools professionals use every day — from schema design to indexing and query optimization.

Students build their own fully functioning, database-backed applications using platforms like SQL Server and MySQL Workbench, and learn how to connect databases to front-end interfaces. You’ll work through real-world use cases while mastering skills essential for backend development, data analytics, and technical interviews.

More About the Computer Science Major

From your first programming class to your final practicum, you’ll be building real projects that show what you can do. The program is designed to help you grow steadily in skill and confidence, with strong faculty support and a peer community that’s serious about making an impact in tech.

Get Hands-On and Learn by Building

You’ll take theory you’ve learned and apply it to build web apps, platforms, and tools that solve real problems as part of the required Practicum in Software Development (MCON 357) course. Here are some recent practicum project examples that reflect the creativity, technical skill, and values that define the program: 

• Kosher Meal Planner: A smart menu app powered by kosher.com
• NYC Parking Analyzer: A data science tool that helps users avoid tickets
• Jokerr: A family-friendly joke chatbot using AI moderation
• GrocerEase: A shopping list and price comparison tool
• Study Hub: A site that turns notes into quizzes, flashcards, and study guides

Internship Opportunities

Although not required, many students gain additional hands-on experience through internships during their time at LAS. Students have interned at Amazon, Goldman Sachs, B&H, and other large enterprise organizations as well as at smaller startups and community organizations. 

Faculty and advisors help students identify opportunities as part of Internship in Computer Science (MCON 452) and then assist them in preparing for technical interviews and building portfolios that stand out to employers.

Computer Science Pathways at Touro

If graduate school is part of your plan, Touro LAS helps you get there faster while staying connected to the strength and resources of Touro’s wider university system.

The Integrated Technology Merit Fast Track allows qualified computer science majors to take up to nine graduate-level credits during undergrad that count toward both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. If you qualify, you’ll be conditionally accepted into the Touro Graduate School of Technology, where master’s degree options include:

• MS in Web and Application Development
• MS in Cybersecurity and Network Administration
• MS in UX/UI and Interaction Design

This unique pathway gives you early exposure to advanced coursework while keeping you connected to the support and structure of Touro. Plus, graduating with two degrees provides an advantage as you embark on your career path.

After Touro: Careers and Opportunities

Our alumni work at startups, nonprofit organizations, and major enterprise businesses like Amazon, B&H, the Federal Reserve, Goldman Sachs, IBM, Northwell Health, Capital One Bank, Deloitte, Cross River Bank and HealthFirst. Others continue their studies in fields like machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity and earn advanced degrees at Touro or top institutions like NYU and Georgia Tech.

After graduating, students immediately enter the workforce into lucrative roles such as:

• Software Engineer
• Full Stack Developer
• Business or Systems Analyst
• App or Web Developer
• Database Administrator
• IT Project Manager

With hands-on project experience, close faculty mentorship, and professional-level skills, you’ll graduate prepared to build a career that’s meaningful, impactful, and aligned with your goals.

Alumni Spotlight: Bracha Cohen

Bracha Cohen’s journey from Touro LAS to becoming a partner at Goldman Sachs — a prestigious title bestowed on fewer than 1% of its employees — is a testament to where a strong foundation in computer science can take you.

After graduating from Touro LAS with a BS in computer science, Bracha joined Goldman Sachs as a programmer. Over the years, the Brooklyn-based mother of seven has risen through the ranks by mastering new skills and adapting to new business areas. Today, she heads a large team of programmers globally across the U.S., EMEA, Asia and India, and her division manages more than $3 trillion. 

“I started out writing and testing software 30 years ago, and have since made several moves to support different business areas,” she said. “In the process, my roles have become less hands-on; instead, I began leading and overseeing other developers. Now I focus on identifying emerging opportunities and setting priorities for developers.”

So why did Bracha choose Touro LAS? Because, she said, it offered a strong education, mentorship, and support for her values as an observant Jewish woman.

“Touro gave me a solid foundation in technology, the concepts of computer science and hands-on programming in languages that were used at the time,” she said. “Touro also exposed me to finance and business basics, so I was well prepared for my first job, and I have been able to learn on the job since then.”

For computer science students at Touro today, Cohen offers this advice: “You can’t expect to operate with the same programming languages and technical skills throughout your career, so focus on key concepts because they will always be relevant.”

What to Expect at LAS

Touro LAS is a commuter campus with a close-knit community. It’s a place where students are supported and encouraged to grow personally and professionally without compromising who they are and the path they’re on.