Computer Science (BS)
The demand for computer scientists in the workplace remains strong. Computer scientists can make a difference in the world by helping to solve problems in areas as diverse as global communications, health care, public policy, scientific discovery and exploration, and climate change. Students who major in Computer Science develop and adapt new methods for solving highly technical problems at the forefront of technology. They are problem solvers first and foremost, and learn to think critically, logically, and abstractly. They gain both an understanding of the underlying theory and concepts of computing and the facility to integrate theory with practice. Students take both foundational courses and advanced technology courses that focus on systems and technology development. Our graduates are well prepared for a diverse range of careers in programming, web development, system support, network administration, database design, computer and network security, applications development, and software engineering. The program also provides academically outstanding and highly motivated majors with the opportunity to produce a rigorous thesis as the culmination of a two-semester project, beginning with a preparatory semester of related independent research.
Students who major in Computer Science cannot double major with or minor in Information Technology.
Learning Outcomes
Computer Science majors will:
1. Understand the fundamental concepts and theory of computing and their application to solving real-world problems.
2. Communicate effectively across diverse audiences and modalities.
3. Demonstrate depth of knowledge through the application of theory and the ability to adapt to evolving technologies.
4. Think abstractly, logically, clearly, and critically.
5. Use collaborative leadership abilities to contribute effectively in a diverse team.
6. Develop the individual initiative and skills to assess new ideas and information providing the capability for lifelong development.
7. Understand the ethical, legal, and social implications of technology as they apply to diverse communities and stakeholders.
8. Have the education and skills to seek employment in technology-related jobs or become enrolled in graduate study.
Program Requirements
Required Core Courses (36 credits)
Computer Science majors complete all of the following:
| CS 110 | Foundations of Information Technology | 4 |
| CS 112 | Introduction to Computer Science | 4 |
| CS 221 | Database Management Systems | 4 |
| CS 232 | Data Structures | 4 |
| CS 245 | Computing Systems | 4 |
| CS 330 | Structure and Organization of Programming Languages | 4 |
| CS 332 | Algorithms | 4 |
| CS 335 | Software Engineering | 4 |
| MATH 210 | Discrete Mathematics | 4 |
MATH or STATS Course Requirement (4 credits)
Majors will complete ONE Mathematics or Statistics course numbered 118 or above.
Electives (8 credits)
Majors will complete TWO courses chosen from the following: