The Department of Computer Science offers instruction and performs research in the essential areas of computer science including software, Web and Internet computing, networking, hardware systems, operating systems, compilers, parallel and distributed computing, theory of computing, and computer graphics. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is the preferred degree both for graduate study in computer science and for technical careers in software development, computational science, networking, information systems, and electronic commerce. Graduates of our program are well suited for professional employment in traditional computer and communications industries, as well as in such diverse industries as financial services and consulting practices in which computing and information management is central to the operation of the enterprise.

Majors receive rigorous training in the foundations of computer science and the relevant mathematics, then have ample opportunity to specialize in software systems, programming languages, theoretical computer science, or applications of computing technology in science, applied mathematics, medicine, or business.

Students whose interests lie more in the area of digital system design should consider the Computer Engineering track of the Curriculum in Applied and Materials Sciences. Students whose interests lie in the study of cognitive, social, and organizational roles of information should consider the information science major in the School of Information and Library Science.

Students who wish to use computers vocationally and desire a technical introduction to computing should take one or more of the introductory courses such as COMP 110, 116 and 401, and one or two more advanced courses such as COMP 410, 411, and 416.

The department encourages all students who wish to develop the ability to use a personal computer for common applications to take COMP 101, "Computers: Power Tools for the Mind." Our "Computers and Society" course, COMP 380, satisfies the philosophical perspective requirement in the General College and has no programming prerequisite.