Computer Science

Computer Science

Office: Olsson Hall, Room 204
Phone: 982-2200

Computer Science is the study of information processes. Computer scientists learn how to describe information processes, how to reason about and predict properties of information processes, and how to implement information processes elegantly and efficiently in hardware and software.

The Computer Science department offers a BA degree (Interdisciplinary Major) and minor for students in the College of Arts and Sciences (we also offer a BS degree for students in the School of Engineering and Applied Science). The Computer Science curriculum concentrates on developing the deep understanding of computing and critical thinking skills that will enable graduates to pursue a wide variety of possible fields and to become academic, cultural, and industrial leaders. The core curriculum focuses on developing methods and tools for describing, implementing, and analyzing information processes and for managing complexity including abstraction, specification, and recursion. Computing connects closely with a wide range of disciplines including, but not limited to, the visual arts, music, life sciences including biology and cognitive science, the physical sciences, linguistics, mathematics, and the social sciences. The Computer Science major is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in computer science, while developing connections with other areas in the arts, humanities, and sciences.

Prospective computer science majors should take CS 150, which is offered during Spring semesters. Students are strongly encouraged to take CS 150 in their second semester, although it is still possible to complete the major if it is not taken until the second year. Other introductory computing courses include CS 110, which is targeted to non-majors, and CS 101, which is taken primarily by School of Engineering students.

The major requires two gateway courses, four core courses, four computing electives, and four integration electives (courses offered by other departments that either provide fundamental computing depth and background or explore applications of computing to arts and sciences field). For details on the major requirements, see the BACS program website. For more information about computer science and the major, please e-mail David Evans.