Computer Science

Faculty

Chair: Professor John Trono
Associate Professor: Greta Pangborn

The major in Computer Science is designed to prepare students for a life of learning in the computing field that allows them to apply technology to human endeavors of problem-solving, or to pursue further study at the graduate level. The department has a heritage of faculty/student research that provides motivated students with the opportunity to explore topics of mutual interest. Our core Computer Science courses allow the advanced student to pursue the study of a number of Computer Science areas such as artificial intelligence, computer security and cryptography, or advanced algorithms. The curriculum has been divided into three segments: introductory courses, the basic core of Computer Science courses, and electives in Computer Science.

The introductory course work consists of two semesters of Computer Science concepts (concentrating on algorithm design and programming in a higher-level language), and two semesters of calculus. The core covers the principles and theories of Computer Science with courses in discrete mathematics, data structures and the analysis of algorithms, statistics, computer organization, programming languages, software engineering, operating systems, computer architecture, and software engineering. The electives will be chosen with the guidance of a departmental advisor.

The curriculum prepares the major to pursue a career in the computer industry or to continue studying Computer Science at the graduate level. Computer Science majors should give consideration to obtaining a minor in a related field.

Several specific Computer Science and Business courses comprise the Information Systems major. Please see that specific program for more information.

Computer Science Learning Outcomes:

Students will create clearly documented software that will be both efficient and robust.

Students will produce several solutions to typical computer science problems and use mathematical and/or experimental techniques to investigate and evaluate the value of their alternate solutions.

Students will analyze discipline specific material, determine its accuracy, and compose clear and concise prose that summarizes those ideas and/or challenges those conclusions.

Students will be prepared for careers that utilize their computing skills.

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