BS in Computer Science with Concentration in Cyber Operations

Computer science involves the application of theoretical concepts in the context of software development to the solution of problems that arise in almost every human endeavor. Computer science as a discipline draws its inspiration from mathematics, logic, science, and engineering. From these roots, computer science has fashioned paradigms for program structures, algorithms, data representations, efficient use of computational resources, robustness and security, and communication within computers and across networks. The ability to frame problems, select computational models, design program structures, and develop efficient algorithms is as important in computer science as software implementation skill. Computer science is concerned with bringing together all of the intellectual resources needed to enable the rapid and effective development of software to meet the needs of business, research, and end users. The goal of the undergraduate program in computer science is to teach students the conceptual and practical skills that will enable them to contribute to the development of computational principles and to play a productive role in the software community. To that end, the undergraduate program focuses on the fundamentals of program design including object-oriented design, software development, computer organization, systems and networks, theory of computation, principles of languages, and advanced algorithms and data. The program also offers a variety of electives at the upper undergraduate and beginning graduate levels ranging from more theoretical courses to those that focus on important applications. The BS in Computer Science is also offered with a concentration in Cyber Operations. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Concentration in Cyber Operations is one of the initial four programs selected in 2012 by the National Security Agency as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations Program. Learning outcomes: Understand the intellectual foundations for the design of software programs and for the design of algorithms and data structures within programs and larger systems. Be able to apply these principles in the creation of software systems. Understand in-depth the three fundamental programming paradigms: functional, imperative, and object-oriented. Know when and how to apply these paradigms singly and in combination to build efficient, maintainable systems. Be aware that other more specialized paradigms exist such as declarative and logic-based. Understand the basics of event-driven programming. Be able to apply this model to create human computer interfaces or to handle asynchronous data that arrives from external sources. Develop skills in problem analysis and problem solving, especially in the context of the high complexity of the computing world. Be prepared to apply known design patterns in a setting of multiple constraints. Be able to invent new approaches by systematic experimentation. Possess some knowledge of the major software technologies: programming languages, operating systems, network systems and the web, database management systems, artificial intelligence, graphics systems, human computer interfaces, and intelligent systems. Know some systems in sufficient depth to be able to design and implement software using these systems. Be sensitive to the relationship of technology to social issues, in particular: benefits to society and possible drawbacks; security, both for individuals and organizations; privacy. Possess skills in writing, reading, and speaking because communication within organizations and to the public is essential. Acquire the mathematical foundations appropriate to the degree program that is chosen by the student. Be able to use mathematics during the design and analysis of systems.