Computer Science Major

Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

Department Chair: Benjamin Steinhurst, Ph.D.

Description

Computer science is the study of problem solving using algorithms. It encompasses a variety of topics, some of which overlap with disciplines of mathematics, engineering, linguistics, and philosophy. True to the liberal arts tradition of the college, the computer science program emphasizes fundamental aspects of the discipline that develop critical thinking. It provides a solid foundation for a career in software development or graduate studies.

The major in computer science is designed to present students with the concept of an algorithm on four different levels. The notion of algorithm first appears in The Art of Programming course, where algorithms are expressed in a language understandable by computers. The Computer Organization course addresses the way programs are internally processed by the machines. The Data Structures and Algorithms courses advance from programs in a specific programming language to a more general paradigm of a language-independent algorithm on abstract data structures. The Theory of Computation course concludes the required sequence with a general discussion of what an abstract computing device is and what classes of problems can and cannot be solved algorithmically.

The electives in the major are designed to provide exposure to some of the areas of computer science not presented in the required sequence and to introduce students to the research interests of the individual faculty members. The internship/research requirement provides experience and connections to prepare students for careers after graduation. The Art of Programming and Discrete Mathematics courses together serve as a gateway to the program. Students interested in pursuing a major should plan to take these courses as soon as they can, preferably during the first year.

Required:

CSC 1106 - The Art of Programming
CSC 1109 - Discrete Mathematics OR
MAT 2224 - Mathematical Logic + Reasoning
CSC 2206 - Intermediate Java
CSC 2209 - Computer Organization
CSC 2217 - Data Structures
CSC 3312 - Theory of Computation
CSC 3317 - Algorithms
Take three additional four-credit courses in Computer Science, 2000 level or above (excluding CSC 2295 and CSC 3395), no more than one of which may be a programming course.
An internship (CSC XX95) or independent study (CSC XX98) of at least two credits or student-faculty summer research
CSC 4494 - Senior Project
MAT 1118 - Calculus II
At least one additional Mathematics course, 2000 level or above (excluding MAT 2242, MAT 3342, MAT 2295, MAT 3395, and MAT 4495)

Total Program Hours: 54

Departmental Writing Requirement (4 credits)

Students who major in Computer Science are required to take ONE of the following any semester after the first year.

Requirements for Departmental Honors

Contact department chair.