The department views computer science as an academic discipline firmly within Clark University's liberal arts tradition, with an emphasis on the science of designing software and hardware. Courses emphasize concepts and principles; at the same time, the program as a whole closely follows ACM guidelines for university computer science. The major provides preparation for a variety of career paths, both inside and outside the academic community. Two courses in computer programming and one course in discrete mathematics serve as general introductory courses. Four intermediate courses (core requirements) expose the fundamental principles of computer science. One year of calculus is required, and should be completed as soon as possible, if at all possible by the end of the sophomore year. Beyond this, a series of elective courses is offered, in which applications and advanced topics are explored.

The department has a system of advising to assist students with their course selections. Department faculty are eager to help students select courses. A major must be declared no later than the second semester of the sophomore year; earlier declarations are encouraged. Students should choose an academic advisor from the department faculty as early as possible, or at least by the time the major is declared. (Entering students enrolled in First-Year Seminars in programs outside mathematics, computer science, or the natural sciences are especially encouraged to make a prompt choice of an unofficial secondary advisor in the Computer Science Department, who will be able to supplement the advice offered by their primary advisor.)