Mar 28, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Science Major, BS


The Department of Computer Science (CS) offers a degree program leading to the Bachelor of science in computer science. The department also jointly offers a program with the industrial engineering technology (IET) department in the College of Education and Professional Studies in computer engineering technology. Information related to the computer engineering technology program can be found in the IET section of the catalog.

The field of computer science can trace its beginnings and much of its foundation to both mathematics and engineering. Because of this, studies in computer science range from theory through experimental techniques to engineering methodology. The purpose of the computer science curriculum is to expose students to aspects of each of these disciplines and foster an appreciation and understanding of them. To accomplish this, students are exposed to the broad theoretical basis of computer science as well as a strong laboratory component. The laboratory experience is more than simple programming. Rather, it is through the laboratories that students are introduced to both the experimental and the design aspects of computer science.

Using this philosophy as a base, the CS department has designed a curricular model that seeks to increase relevance to the real world. In particular, the senior project, a capstone course series- CS 480 and 481- adopts a theme that expands upon the experimental and design approach of typical computer science curricula. This capstone series addresses the creativity and productivity elements required for business and industry applications today. Students become engaged in projects that investigate each stage of transforming a creative idea into a productivity-enhancing system in a realistic context.

Admission Requirements
Admission to the computer science major or minor is not selective; however, progress in the major/minor is dependent upon earning certain grades in prerequisite courses. In order to continue in any CS course a student must receive a C grade or higher in each of the CS courses and a C grade or higher in each of the General Education Academic Writing courses and required Math courses. Applications will be accepted through the last day of classes (i.e., the week before finals) of the fall, winter, and spring quarters for admission the following quarter. 

The computer science department believes that advising is one of the keys to success in an undergraduate program. To that end, majors and minors are required to meet with a computer science advisor every term in order to register. Pre-admission students are also encouraged to meet with their designated computer science advisor each term. Advisors and advising times are listed with the CS office.

Program Requirements
In addition to the courses listed in the required courses listed in the Program Curriclum, students must complete at least 20 credits of electives. Of these 20, at least 12 must be from CS (excluding CS 490, CS 495, and CS 496).

Program Learner Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of each of the subject areas that define the discipline as well as the interrelationships that exist among them.
  • Demonstrate the ability to utilize appropriate theoretical constructs for problem solving: definitions, and axioms, theorems, proofs, and interpretation of results.
  • Have the ability to apply basic research methods in computer science.
  • Have the ability to apply appropriate design constructs: requirements analysis and specification, design, implementation, and testing.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of ethical codes and societal issues associated with the computing field.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of recent technological and theoretical developments, general professional standards, and have an awareness of their own strengths and limitations as well as those of the discipline itself.
  • Be aware of the history of computing, including those major developments and trends - economic, scientific, legal, political, and cultural - that have combined to shape the discipline.
  • Have the necessary background for entry into graduate study.
  • Have the ability to communicate effectively.

CS Pre-admission Requirements Credits: 17


The minimum grade a student must receive is a  C grade or higher in each of the CS courses and a C grade or higher in each of the General Education Academic Writing courses and a C grade or higher in each required Math courses.

Department-Approved Electives Credits: 20


Electives must be chosen with the guidance of a computer science advisor and must form a coherent focus area. The minimum grade a student must receive is a  C grade or higher in each of the CS courses and a C grade or higher in each of the General Education Academic Writing courses and a C grade or higher in each required Math courses.

  • Additional CS courses (excluding CS 490, CS 495, and CS 496) Credits: (12)
  • Additional department-approved electives Credits: (8)

Total Credits: 106


College and Department Information


Computer Science Department  
College of the Sciences