Computer Science (BS)

The Computer Science bachelor’s degree program is designed to provide a broad overview to the fundamentals of computer science, including software and systems analysis, programming languages, machine architecture, algorithmic thinking, and theoretical foundations of computing.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are expected to:

• Apply knowledge of math, science, engineering and contemporary developments in the fields of software programming, networking, system design, computer science and/or project management.
• Analyze problems through the use of computer science concepts and processes to formulate, implement and test software-based algorithms.
• Incorporate historical context and emerging developments in computer science to create adaptable and efficient algorithmic solutions that reflect ethical considerations and global awareness.
• Use the techniques, skills and emerging tools necessary for analysis and evolution of algorithms in computer science.

Upon completion of the​ Software Engineering specialization (offered at the Providence campus), graduates are expected to:

• Integrate knowledge, tools and problem-solving skills to carry out the design, creation, maintenance and testing of state-of-the-art software solutions.

Upon completion of the​ Network Engineering specialization (offered at the Providence Campus), graduates are expected to:

• Apply computer science knowledge, skills and tools focused on real-time, finite state machine development methods aimed at creating network products, network designs, troubleshooting plans and advanced protocol tracking.

Modern computer science touches many academic pursuits (i.e., business, economics, the sciences, mathematics, etc.). Computer Science students have the flexibility to truly pursue integrated learning across the university and beyond, made possible by additional elective options with this degree. The benefits of problem-solving and algorithmic thinking can be applied to many intellectual pursuits changing the way students approach problem solving. Coupled with the pragmatic skills of programming and computer internals training, students can be action-oriented in mobilizing and automating problem-solving methods.

In the Software Engineering specialization, the core concepts found in computer science are expanded upon in the pursuit of perfecting the methods and tactics necessary for large-scale software development. Software engineering applies problem-solving methods, data-handling techniques and programming skills to large-scale implementations. Large projects pose unique challenges in terms of specification of problems to be solved, practical application development concerns, testing, project management and documentation. The Software Engineering specialization focuses on learning in these key areas. Programming is comprised of unique skills that separate software engineers from pure computer scientists. Students that complete this specialization are ready to join software development teams and make significant contributions to software product development.

In the Network Engineering specialization, students learn how computer science drives the next level of networking enhancements: application-aware networks, software-driven networks, advanced network security screening/firewalling/packet examination, and data-handling improvements based on advanced-routing algorithms. Finite state-based programming has always been at the core of networking and is the focus of this program. Students who complete this specialization are intimately familiar with the evolution of network products, the software internals of switches and routers, and the latest trends in software development specific to this industry. Students are positioned to lead network design teams, benchmark network products, create network products, and analyze network problems from both a software and hardware point of view.