Ship > CS> BS Computer Science
Computer Science (B.S.) Overview
The Department of Computer Science offers an undergraduate program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in computer science. The computer science program is designed to enable the student to gain knowledge of computer science and to apply this knowledge to an application area. Students will be proficient in developing computer software to solve problems in a number of contexts. We have excellent MFAT scores to prove how effective our program is!
The computer science degree program and its concentrations are accredited by ABET, Inc. placing Shippensburg University among 30 Pennsylvania colleges and universities that have accredited ABET programs and one of 10 that include computer science programs. For more information on ABET, visit ABET Information.
Computer Science Concentrations
Our program combines practical experience with appropriate theory and the ability to specialize within the discipline. To realize this goal, we offer concentrations in Software Engineering, Computer Graphics, and Embedded Systems development. The Bachelor of Science degree program in computer science includes a concentration in an application area. Students may choose from a pre-approved concentration or seek departmental approval for a concentration of their own design. The decision on the concentration is typically made during the sophomore year.
The pre-approved concentrations include:
* Systems Programming, for computer generalist;
* Embedded Programming, for developing software for embedded controllers;
* Computer Graphics, for the development of graphics intensive software;
* Software Engineering, for the development of software while working in teams;
* Related Discipline, for those students who would like to combine computer science with another discipline such as business, science, etc. In addition, a student may submit a proposal for an individualized program of concentration.
Languages
Internships and co-ops are available for students to gain practical experience, and students are highly encouraged to participate in them.
At Shippensburg University, the study of computer science as an intellectual discipline does not occur in a vacuum. Rather, study is oriented toward practical applications of computer science theory and methodology. As a result, the department feels part of its responsibility is to assist students in the concrete task of learning programming languages suitable for a variety of tasks. Major languages used include: Java as the vehicle for the first half of the introductory programming sequence (CS I and II); C/C++ for the second half of this sequence (CS II, Data Structures). These languages are used in many courses throughout the remainder of the curriculum. SQL is utilized for the Database Management Systems course. In addition, all students will gain some knowledge of a variety of other languages.
Computer Science Career Opportunities
Career opportunities in software development as a programmer or systems analyst have been and are predicted to be, very favorable. The work environment and income potential are highly attractive.
Opportunities exist among all employers, especially business and industry, government, science, and education.
Computer Science (B.S.)
-
Core Requirements (47 crs.)
- Mathematics
- MAT211 Calculus I 4 crs.
- MAT225 Discrete Mathematics 4 crs.
- MAT313 Statistics I 4 crs.
- MAT318 Elementary Linear Algebra 3 crs.
- Computer Science (Core)
- CSC110 Computer Science I 4 crs.
- CSC111 Computer Science II 4 crs.
- CSC211 Design Patterns 4 crs.
- CSC220 Computer Organization 4 crs.
- CSC310 Design and Analysis of Algorithms 4 crs.
- CSC320 Operating Systems 4 crs.
- CSC371 Database Management 4 crs.
- CSC498 Senior Research Methods 2 crs.
- CSC499 Senior Research and Development 2 crs.
- Concentration Requirements (approx. 27 crs.)
- Mathematics
Concentrations
Each student must complete a cohesive course of additional study consisting of advanced computer science courses and courses from related or application areas. The student's course of study must be approved by the department in writing. Any student choosing one of the pre-approved three concentrations receives automatic approval. However, a student may, with his or her advisor, draw up a customized concentration which the advisor will then submit to the department for approval. Interested students may examine the department's website at webspace.ship.edu/compsci to see the three pre-approved concentrations.
Systems Programming Concentration
This concentration is the most general concentration for Computer Science, and covers a broad array of categories.
Requirements:
- Computer Science Core (above)
- CSC350 Intro to Computer Graphics
- CSC401 Simulation
- CSC431 Computer Networks
- CSC440 Compiler Design
- CSC462 Artificial Intelligence
Software Engineering Concentration
This concentration teaches student how to develop software catered to a client in a team environment.
Requirements
- Computer Science Core (above)
- CSC394 Software Metrics/Process Management
- CSC431 Computer Networks
- CSC496 Traditional Life Cycles
- CSC497 Testing and XP
- Computer Science Elective
Embedded Programming Concentration
This concentration prepares students for development of embedded systems (such as cell phones, micro-controllers, and real-time computers).
Requirements
- Computer Science Core (above)
- CSC322 Embedded Programming
- CSC401 Simulation Techniques
- CSC420 Digital and Reconfigurable Computing
- CSC421 Advanced Operating Systems
- Computer Science Elective (one of CSC431, CSC440)
Computer Graphics Concentration
This concentration instructs students in the development of graphics software. A partnership with the art department also allows students to recieve a foundation in visual design principles.
Requirements
- Computer Science Core (above)
- CSC350 Intro to Computer Graphics
- CSC450 Advanced Computer Graphics
- CSC451 Computer Graphics Algorithms
- ART217 Computer Design 1
- ART306 Computer Design 2
- Choice of ART Computer Design 3,4,5
If you are interested in studying more math, check out Math Education page for math major/minor information.