Computer Science, B.A.

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This program provides a solid foundation of computer knowledge, research opportunities, and hands-on experience. Courses on computer architecture and hardware, database systems, networking, computer languages, algorithm design and analysis, and computer graphics are put to use as students design independent study projects, pursue internships, or take advantage of on-campus work opportunities, such as working in the computer labs. The small student-faculty ratio enables the faculty to mentor students and help them develop strong critical and independent thinking skills. Graduates are prepared for employment as software developers, database specialists, network administrators, computer facility managers, and graduate study.

Requirements (56 Total Credits)

Note: An equivalent COS 377 can be taken for COS 372 ; an equivalent COS 377 can be taken for COS 455 .

Major Requirements

COS 120 - Web Development Credits: 4
COS 140 - Introduction to Computer Science Credits: 4
COS 142 - Data Structures Credits: 4
COS 280 - Networking Using TCP/IP Credits: 4
COS 360 - Programming Language Concepts Credits: 4
COS 364 - Algorithm Design and Analysis Credits: 4
COS 372 - Computer Operating Systems Credits: 4
COS 455 - Database Systems Credits: 4
COS 470 - Computer Science Capstone Experience Credits: 4

Two COS Electives Chosen from the Following (8 Credits):

(one must be numbered above 300)

COS 177 Topics in Computer Science Credits: 4
COS 377 - Intermediate Topics in Computer Science Credits: 4
COS 477 - Advanced Topics in Computer Science Credits: 4
COS 497 - Independent Study in Computer Science III Credits: 1-4 (varies)

Subtotal: 44

Supporting Mathematics Courses (12 credits):

MAT 141M - Calculus I Credits: 4
MAT 151M - Mathematical Proof Credits: 4
MAT 120M - Introductory Statistics Credits: 4
or
MAT 220 - Data Analysis Credits: 4

World Language Requirement

For specific information about world language requirements and expectations, see the General Education Requirements in the Academic Programs section of this catalog.

General Education Requirements

For specific information about general education requirements and expectations, see the General Education Requirements in the Academic Programs section of this catalog.

Minimum Total Credits for The Degree: 128

Learning Goals and Assessment

Learning Goals:

Students will be able to design and implement algorithms using appropriate data structures.
Students will be able to analyze algorithms and determine their complexity.
Students will be able to design and implement three-dimensional graphical scenes, applying mathematical concepts.
Students will be able to understand the theoretical and applied aspects of databases and will be able to design and interact with a database.
Students will be able to use the TCP/IP protocol suite in managing network communications.
Students will be able to understand processes and threads and will be able to apply this knowledge to designing and implementing concurrent algorithms.
Students will be able to use programming languages in a variety of paradigms.
Students will be able to communicate computing concepts both in writing and orally.
Students will be able to read technical computing material.

Assessment Criteria:

Students will acquire a coherent and broad-based knowledge of the discipline of computing. Graduates should develop a reasonable level of understanding of each subject area and of the processes that define the discipline, as well as an appreciation for the interrelationships that exist among them. The areas of study will include:

algorithms and data structures
architecture/computer organization
database and information retrieval
human-computer interaction
graphics
operating systems
programming languages
numerical and symbolic computation