Computer Science Minor

Computer Science is the study of programs, algorithms, machine organization, networks, data structures, and the mathematical structures that underlie them. The computer science curriculum is designed to produce graduates who can understand and apply fundamental algorithms and data structures to real-world problems. They will have an understanding of computer and network architecture and will be able to write programs in a variety of high-level languages. They will be able to work individually or in teams and will be aware of the data and security needs of business and society at large. They will become self-learners who can assimilate new technologies into their repertoire quickly. They will be able to communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences and conduct themselves in an ethical and socially responsible manner.

The computer science major has four tracks to choose from depending on the student’s goals and occupational interests. The Information Technology (IT) track focuses on serving the end-user by applying computer science to real-world applications across a number of common business domains. It is intended to prepare students for careers as software engineers, Web developers, network administrators, IT managers, analysts, and other IT-related jobs. The Mathematics track provides students with increased preparation in mathematics. This track is most appealing to students who wish to attend graduate school, conduct computer science research, or work in a computer-related field requiring knowledge of upper-level mathematics. The Systems track is a blend of the IT and Mathematics tracks. It provides students with more general computer science preparation. The AI/Robotics track is designed for students who wish to pursue careers that utilize artificial intelligence, machine learning, and/or robotic machinery. This track provides students with the theoretical basis for these topics as well as thorough exposure to building tangible predictive systems and adaptable robots. Students who are unsure of which track to choose are advised to elect the Systems track. All four tracks begin with the computer science core, a series of courses that provides students with the fundamental computer science knowledge needed for upper-level elective courses.