Computer Science

Faculty:

Chair: F. Bailie; Professors: L. Ivanov; Associate Professors: F. Bailie, P. Centonze, S. Petrovic, R. Schiaffino, C. Tsai; Assistant Professors: J. Kim, E. Troja

Mission:

To provide students with the knowledge, skills and experiences to become successful practitioners and leaders in the field of computer science.

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for careers as computer science professionals. It is designed both for students with a prior background in computing and for those who lack a degree in computer science. The latter must complete a sequence of transition courses to prepare them for the regular program. The program is organized to enhance students’ understanding of the theories, concepts and practices of computer science and to enable them to develop new competencies. Students who earn this degree will be qualified to assume responsible positions in industry and government at the research, planning and development levels. They will also be prepared to pursue additional formal education in computer science.

Student Learning Outcomes

At the end of the program, students should be able to

Work independently to analyze the requirements of problems of appropriate complexity and then design and implement solutions.
Communicate clearly and effectively on technical issues in both oral and written form.
Work collaboratively on problems of appropriate complexity
Adapt readily to new technologies and/or disciplines

Admissions

Non-Matriculated Status

Students may be admitted to the program with non-matriculated status after consultation with an advisor. The applicant must present the following:

Completed application.
Evidence of completion of a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative 2.5 GPA.
Payment of the application fee.

NOTE: The GRE is not required in the Computer Science program. A maximum of 12 credits numbered above 600 will be permitted as a non-matriculated student. The department will not accept additional credits taken without matriculation. Credits earned in transition courses in computer science will not be counted toward the 12 credit limit.

Matriculated Status

Students will be considered for admission to the program with matriculated status if they provide the following:

Evidence of completion of a bachelor’s degree with official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools previously attended. Student copies are not accepted. A minimum 3.0 undergraduate or graduate GPA is required.
For those who are taking the transition courses, each course must be completed with a grade of ‘B’ or better before applying for matriculation.
Three completed recommendation forms must be submitted directly to the Dean’s Office of the School of Arts and Science. These forms must be submitted by supervisors or college faculty who have direct knowledge of the student’s academic aptitude and potential for success in the program. If possible, at least one letter of recommendation must be from a recent faculty member. Recommendations from friends, relatives or colleagues are not acceptable.
A program plan approved by the program director.

Competency Equivalencies

Students who can demonstrate course competencies in core courses may request that the specific course(s) be waived. The student will make a substitution of an appropriate elective course, with the approval of the program director. A copy of this approval will be presented to the Dean’s Office in the School of Arts and Science for placement in the student’s folder.

Graduation Requirements

Completion of 33 credits including the appropriate distribution of credits.
A minimum GPA of 3.0.
Acceptance of a thesis or completion of CS 780 and CS 784 .
All requirements must be completed within five years from the date of admission.

Programs

Master of Science