Bachelor of Science - Computer Science
The major in computer science is intended to provide the student with a broad understanding of modern computers, including basic design, organizational principles and operating principles. The role of the computer as a general-purpose problem-solving tool is emphasized.
Through lectures and extensive laboratory experiences the student is exposed to the most common computer environments and the most common programming languages in current use, to a systematic methodology of software design and implementation, and to a wide variety of applications, as well as to the theoretical foundations of computer science. Through the choice of an option (see below) and appropiate upper-division electives, the student can specialize in a particular area such as computation theory, scientific computation or embedded systems.
In addition to preparing students for careers in a variety of computer-related areas, the curriculum in computer science also provides a foundation for further study of computer science at the graduate level.
The major program in computer science consists of fifteen CSC courses (9 required courses plus six others selected according to specific guidelines), together with five support courses in mathematics, one in symbolic logic, and one in digital circuit design. The six computer science electives must include one of the available two-course options:
- Computation theory
- Computer systems
- Embedded systems
- Object-oriented methods
- Parallel computing
- Software engineering
The major in computer science does not require the completion of a minor, but students in the program are encouraged to consider using some of their free electives to assemble a minor in an area in which there are computer applications. A minor in mathematics is particularly convenient since most of the mathematics support courses can be used as part of such a minor. Other possibilities include business administration or one of the sciences. Before embarking on a minor the student should confer with the chairperson of the appropriate department to determine the proper selection of courses.
Retention in the program: In order to remain in the computer science degree program, a student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.7 (B-) or higher in CSC courses and 2.3 (C+) or higher in the support courses. Exceptional circumstances are handled on an individual basis.