Computer Science Major, BS

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The Department of Computer Science (CS) offers a degree program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

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 bases of computer science as well as a strong laboratory component. Focus areas for students are artificial intelligence, scientific computing, robotics, data science, and cybersecurity.

The CS department has designed a curricular model that seeks to increase relevance to the real world. In particular, the department requires a capstone experience that expands upon the experimental and design approach of typical computer science curricula. This capstone experience is a major project that requires integration and application of knowledge and skills acquired in earlier coursework. 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; students may declare at any time. However, progress in the major/minor is dependent upon earning certain grades in prerequisite courses. The grade threshold is a C. 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 encouraged to meet with a computer science advisor every term in order to register. Advisors and advising times are listed with the CS office.

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.

Required Courses Credits: 87

CS 110 - Programming Fundamentals I Credits: (4)
CS 111 - Programming Fundamentals II Credits: (4)
CS 112 - Introduction to Data Science in Python Credits: (4)
CS 301 - Data Structures Credits: (4)
CS 302 - Advanced Data Structures and File Processing Credits: (4)
CS 311 - Computer Architecture I Credits: (4)
CS 312 - Computer Architecture II Credits: (4)
CS 325 - Technical Writing in Computer Science Credits: (4)
CS 361 - Principles of Language Design I Credits: (4)
CS 362 - Principles of Language Design II Credits: (4)
CS 380 - Introduction to Software Engineering Credits: (4)
CS 392 - Lab Experience in Teaching Computer Science Credits: (1)
CS 420 - Database Management Systems Credits: (4)
CS 427 - Algorithm Analysis Credits: (4)
CS 450 - Computer Network and Data Communications Credits: (4)
CS 470 - Operating Systems Credits: (4)
CS 480 - Advanced Software Engineering Credits: (4)
CS 481 - Capstone Project Credits: (4)
CS 489 - Senior Colloquium Credits: (1)
CS 492 - Laboratory Experience in Teaching Computer Science Credits: (2)
MATH 172 - Calculus I Credits: (5)
MATH 260 - Sets and Logic Credits: (5)
MATH 330 - Discrete Mathematics Credits: (5)

Department-Approved Electives Credits: 20

Electives must be chosen with the guidance of a computer science advisor and must form a coherent focus area.

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

Total Credits: 107

College and Department Information

Computer Science Department
College of the Sciences

Program Codes
COSC, COSCP