Program

The computer science and information systems department offers its graduates a common foundation for analysis, design and development of computer and information systems within two major options.

Computer Science Option: A technical and theoretical emphasis provides students comprehensive understanding of software engineering, computing techniques and the underlying theories. Graduates will develop skills relevant to the analysis, design and implementation of sophisticated software/hardware systems and communication networks.

Information Systems Option: The analysis and design of information systems with an emphasis on managing, storing, transmitting and providing ready access to information is the key to the IS option. Graduates will develop skills relevant to the analysis, design and implementation of sophisticated information systems.

Faculty

The CSIS faculty have a wide range of interests including: computer networks, Internet technologies, computer graphics, image processing, computer vision, artificial intelligence, neural networks, object-oriented programming, systems analysis, database management systems, and design of information systems. Professors can arrange for independent study to explore current trends in the computer field beyond those offered in the standard curriculum. A full-time faculty member is assigned as an adviser to each student.

Why Major in Computer Science and Information Systems?

Computers are woven into the fabric of our business and personal lives, and the use of computing in our society will expand even further in the future. In the global environment of rapidly changing technology, there is a growing business dependence on information systems and the digital networks in all career fields. As a result, computer skills and competencies are in high demand. Recently, Jobs Rated Almanac identified the top ten jobs based on job security, income and satisfaction levels. On the list were several computer-related jobs, including website manager, computer systems analyst, computer programmer and software engineer.

As a computer professional in either option, you can pursue any of the following areas: web development and e-commerce, networking, analysis and design of information systems, software development, multimedia and graphics, and database design and implementation.

Strengths of the Program

CSIS faculty care about you and your success and serve as teachers, mentors, and advisers.  A tutoring and peer learning program increases student interaction, encourages teamwork, and offers assistance with department core courses.  A mentor program matches new students with upper level students, and upper level students with working  professionals, to provide encouragement and assistance along the way. The internship and placement program searches out real world work opportunities and strives for 100% placement upon graduation.  Undergraduate research promotes student involvement with faculty.

The CSIS Department has an active local chapter of the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) providing students opportunities to meet and learn from other students, professional speakers and faculty.