Computer Science Major

 

  The Computer Science major is designed to prepare students for a broad variety of careers and for graduate study. Work in computer science includes software development and design, research in solving problems in computing (including data storage, networking, retrieval, organization, validation, and so on), and research into new ways of using computing devices (computer vision, robotics, machine learning, accessibility studies, etc.). Computer science is one of the most rapidly expanding and changing fields of scientific inquiry. Preparation for work in this field is thus inherently interdisciplinary, requiring a strong mathematical background. The problem-solving capabilities acquired in the Computer Science major are of wide utility in many fields of study and careers not directly connected to computer science. The Computer Science major fulfills the Natural Sciences & Mathematics PEAK.

37 Credits

Major Requirements

Complete the Computer Science Core (27 credits):

CSC-150Computer Science I: Introduction to Computer Science and Programming

3 credits

CSC-152Computer Science II: Data Structures

4 credits

CSC-160Introduction to Computer Architecture

3 credits

CSC-235Programming Languages

3 credits

CSC-270Applied Databases

3 credits

CSC-340Design and Analysis of Algorithms

3 credits

MAT-252Discrete Mathematics

3 credits

PHY-271Analytical Physics I

4 credits

PHY-271LAnalytical Physics I Lab

1 credit

CSC-150: Completion of MAT-150 Applied Calculus: A Modeling Approach may be required prior to enrolling in CSC-150.

Calculus (4 credits):

Complete one of the following:

MAT-175Single Variable Calculus

4 credits

MAT-275Multivariable Calculus

4 credits

MAT-175 is a prerequisite for CSC-340 and PHY-271. Depending on Math background, MAT-150 may be required to enrolling in MAT-175

Complete any advanced coursework in Computer Science (3 credits):

Complete 3 credits from the following:
CSC-350Formal Languages and Automata

3 credits

CSC-455Numerical Computation

3 credits

MAT-427Statistical Machine Learning

3 credits

Note each course has different prerequisites and could require additional coursework.

Complete the Computer Science capstone sequence (3 credits);

CSC-480Software Engineering and Senior Design

2 credits

CSC-497Internship

1-3 credits

Computer Science majors may not minor in Scientific Computing, they should instead earn the Data Science Specialization. Computer Science majors must complete 3 or more credits of CSC-480 and CSC-497 in any combination. 

Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this majors, students will be able to:


1) Analyze a complex computing problem and identify solutions;
2) Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements;
3) Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts;
4) Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles; and
5) Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program's discipline.