B.S. in Computer Science - Information Science

The rapid spread of computers and information technology has generated a continuing need for highly trained workers to design and develop new hardware and software systems and to incorporate new technologies. Students who see themselves as a part of this exciting and rapidly changing world will want to find out more about the Computer Science Program. The computer science major provides students with a solid foundation for a career in computing and related areas. Students begin with a core sequence of courses that develops the programming and analytical foundation needed for delving into advanced study in the many areas of computing. Upper-level courses focus on an in-depth understanding of important areas of computing, including required courses in computer architecture, operating systems, programming languages, software engineering, and systems programming. Upper-level elective courses are chosen from areas such as computer graphics, artificial intelligence, database programming, computer networks, algorithms, web programming, Unix/Linux administration, theory of computation, cryptography, mobile computing, and formal methods. The Information Science Concentration focuses on programming and analysis in particular application areas that are most commonly needed in industry. Relatively modest class sizes give students the chance to work one-on-one with our highly talented and dedicated faculty. At the same time students have opportunities for field and research experiences. Advisors work with students in the selection of their courses prior to registration each semester. Faculty says up-to-date on the latest developments in the ever-changing world of computers and provide contemporary and relevant experiences to their students. Computer science majors benefit from the department's state-of-the-art computer classrooms, laboratories, and servers. A computing lab is staffed by computer science graduate and undergraduate majors to provide academic assistance and mentoring for all students. Opportunities are available for undergraduate research in computer science. In addition, students prepare projects that provide hands-on experience relating to real-world applications, and students are encouraged to get actual experience through internships, which are available at companies throughout the country. Careers For the student prepared for the challenges, computer science is an exciting and dynamic discipline that can lead to excellent job opportunities in business or industry. Computer science ranks as one of the top bachelor's degrees in terms of starting pay and number of jobs that are available. Major employers of computer science graduates include the National Security Agency, Department of Defense, and other agencies in federal and state governments; and private sector employers such as the airline industry, computer industry, pharmaceutical industry, research and testing services, educational services, security and commodity exchanges, management and public relations services, finance, insurance, and public utilities. Students graduating with a degree in computer science are well-positioned to obtain positions in computing and related areas, including positions with job titles such as software engineer, database programmer/developer/administrator, web programmer/developer/administrator, systems administrator, networking administrator, and mobile app developer.