Computer Science

The Computer Science Department offers two-degree options with a major in Computer Science (CS):

1. Bachelor of Science (BS/CS), and
2. Bachelor of Arts (BA/CS), in which we offer two concentrations:
    
   • Computer Science (CS)
   • Information Systems (IS)

B.S. in Computer Science
This degree option is appropriate if you want to pursue a career as a computing professional or if you plan to enter graduate school. This degree option includes coursework in software design, the theory of computation, algorithms, computer systems, networks, programming languages and software engineering. You may choose electives in such areas as computer games, high-performance computing, graphics and robotics. The B.S. in Computer Science degree option also includes courses in mathematics and a science sequence.

B.A. in Computer Science
This degree option is intended for the general study of the principles and practices of computing and is appropriate if you want to keep your career options open, if you want to combine your study of computer science with a second major in another field, or if you are starting out your study of computer science later in your college career. You can choose one of two concentrations: Computer Science and Information Systems. The Information Systems concentration is appropriate if you are interested in the design and deployment of business and e-commerce applications, in information technology project management and in computing or networking infrastructure support.

Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• solve problems through analysis and implementation of tested programs that use data structures and algorithms.
• program the multiple layers (e.g., compiler, operating system, network, assembly language) between a high-level programming language and the underlying hardware.
• apply logic and mathematical proof techniques to computing problems, including computability, formal languages and complexity of algorithms.
• evaluate ethical outcomes of professional policies, practices, and products at societal, organizational, and personal scales.
• apply, alone and in teams, responsible software engineering methodology, tools and practices.