The Computer Science program prepares students for roles across the breadth of computer science, in industry, service, and research. Our approach to computer science includes a rigorous and balanced core of mathematical, theoretical, and practical knowledge about computation. Students in our department spend more instructional hours on topics central to computer science than at many similar institutions, while electives in topics like robotics and Linux challenge students to deeply employ the tools of their discipline. Our approach also emphasizes active engagement of students in the learning process both in and beyond the classroom. To support this approach, faculty vigorously pursue professional development.
Majors have access to a departmental lab with a variety of language compilers, in addition to other on-campus computing resources. Our Internet Teaching Laboratory (ITL) provides an isolated network for network design experimentation and student investigations in computer security. Servers for n-tier application development are also available to students.
Students participate in the Computer Science Club, affiliated with the national Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). Many students enjoy internship opportunities. Faculty typically hold memberships with professional organizations including the ACM, IEEE Computer Society, and the Consortium for Computing in Small Colleges.
Numerous careers are available to graduates in this major, including software engineering and development; network maintenance, implementation, and design; database design and web interface development; scientific computing; and innumerably more. Many of our students pursue graduate studies in areas such as computer graphics, parallel computing, man-machine interfaces, data communications, computational philosophy, expert systems, artificial intelligence, embedded computer applications, distributed systems, and networking.
The job forecast for computer specialists is outstanding. More than 540,000 new jobs will be created between 2018 and 2028, according to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. The National Association of Colleges and Employers reports consistently high wage growth across the industry.
Oral and written communication skills are central to success in college science majors, including computer science. Prospective students should take as many English, speech, and mathematics courses as possible, as well as general science courses.
Students transferring from a community college should also take courses meeting the Transfer Model Curriculum (TMC) for computer science. We strive to quickly graduate students meeting the TMC and general education requirements.
A bachelor’s degree requires a total of 120 units. For a description of degree requirements to be fulfilled in addition to those listed below for the major, please see “Bachelor’s Degree Requirements ”.
Requirements for the Major (63-64 units)
A minimum grade of C- must be earned in all courses required for the major. Prerequisite courses must be passed with a minimum grade of C-.
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