Department Mission

The Computer Science Department seeks to prepare undergraduate and graduate students for productive careers in industry, academia, and government, by providing an outstanding environment for teaching and research in the core and emerging areas of the discipline. The Department places high priority on establishing and maintaining innovative research programs that enhance educational opportunity.

Program Educational Objectives for Undergraduate Programs

To prepare future generations of computer professionals for long-term careers in research, technical development, and applications. Baccalaureate graduates, ready for immediate employment, are trainable for most Computer Science positions in government and a wide range of industries. Outstanding graduates, interested in highly technical careers, research, and/or academia, should be prepared to further their education in graduate school.

The primary Computer Science departmental emphasis is on computer program design, analysis, and implementation, with both a theoretical foundation and a practical component.

Program Outcomes for Undergraduate Programs

The program enables students to achieve, by the time of graduation:

(a) An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to computer science

(b) An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution

(c) An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs

(d) An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal

(e) An understanding of professional, ethical, and social responsibilities

(f) An ability to communicate effectively

(g) An ability to analyze the impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society, including ethical, legal, security, and global policy issues

(h) Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development

(i) An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice

(j) An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices

(k) An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.