Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Program Scope The primary mission of the Department of Computer Science is to prepare students for employment as computer specialists in the software development and computer manufacturing industries and for continued study toward advanced degrees. The department offers a broad curriculum covering the major areas of the computing discipline, integrated with soft skills such as teamwork and written/oral communication; students also gain experience working in group projects. Students are exposed to the fundamentals of computing architecture and computing theory, and focus their studies on the areas of software and systems development. Faculty work directly with students to help them develop the skills and knowledge of computing professionals. The Bachelor of Science program stresses a basic foundation in mathematics and physics, and a thorough study of the fundamentals of the discipline: software development, computer architecture, operating systems, programming languages, algorithms, and the theoretical foundations of computer science. A wide variety of elective courses such as mobile development, web/internet applications, bioinformatics, database systems, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, game development, and software engineering allow students to specialize in selected areas. Ethical and social issues of computing are discussed throughout the curriculum. Senior courses include group projects to better prepare students for future job markets. A number of skill-based courses have been added to provide necessary training in the latest software technologies. Students intending to enter this program at the freshman level should have completed two years of algebra and one semester of trigonometry in high school. One year each of high school geometry and physics, as well as basic knowledge of computer organization and programming, are very desirable. All lower division courses (course numbers below 300) included among the degree requirements are available at many community colleges in California; students intending to enter the program upon transferring to San Francisco State University from a community college should take as many of those courses there as possible. Students should plan their program of study in the major with the help of a departmental advisor as soon as possible in order that the correct sequence of courses is taken and a proper set of electives is chosen. It is also suggested that students consult with an advisor before selecting courses to meet the General Education requirements. (See program below for acceptable science electives.) Students are encouraged to participate in the Computer Science Cooperative Education Program at SF State. Under this program, they may obtain industrial employment related to their academic studies. This combination of on-the-job training and academic experience can greatly enhance the value of an undergraduate degree in Computer Science.