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Requirements
Computer Science
Computer science focuses on how to create a model for a real-world situation, how to represent that model inside a computer, and how to devise mechanizable techniques to manipulate that model. Such models and techniques are used to understand or investigate the situation or to solve real-world problems.
Introductory courses prepare a student to do such problem-solving in any domain. Students pursuing a computer science major learn more advanced techniques for such modeling and also focus on models specific to computer science and computer technology. Upper-level elective courses prepare students for graduate-level study and for vocations in various computer fields.
Majors
- Eight and one-half departmental units: Computer Science 111, 175, 204, 245, 315, 335, 347 (.5), 367, and 377.
- One elective, approved by the advisor that incorporates computer science skills into another discipline, such as but not limited to Cognitive Science 280, Data Science & Data Analytics 345 and 385, and Mathematics 300.
- Two supporting units: Mathematics 110 or 113, and 160.
- Students planning to attend graduate school in computer science should consult with an advisor for additional study that should be done. The computer science program recognizes the importance of oral and written communication.
- Successful graduates of the program should be able to speak and write effectively in order to communicate important ideas to diverse audiences. The program helps students develop these capabilities in the context of computer science through the progression in its courses. In written communication, students are expected to document their programming work via both internal and external documentation. In oral communication, students are expected to present all aspects of their work and effectively communicate in teams. In all forms of communication, students are expected to be able to address both technical and general audiences. The capstone experiences offer an important opportunity to solidify and extend these skills as students prepare for their future work.
Minors
- Six departmental units:
- Two units of core courses: Computer Science 111 and 204.
- Four additional units of computer science courses chosen from 175, 245, 315, 335, 347, 367, and 377. Cognitive Science 280, Data Science & Data Analytics 345, 385, or Mathematics 300 may be used toward this 1 unit if approved in advance by a computer science advisor or another course approved in advance by the department chair.
Additional Information
Supplemental to the college’s general policies of Advanced Placement and Credit, the department of mathematics and computer science may grant additional placement (based on advising by faculty). The department does not grant placement for computer programming alone but for mastery of concepts and techniques of computer science.