Nov 25, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Computer Science Major, B.S.


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Department of Computer Sciences  

College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design   

  Available Program Format(s): In-Person  

About the Program


The Department Computer Sciences offers coursework leading to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Computer Science. The Computer Science major provides students with broad-based preparation in Computer Science with the appropriate supporting Mathematics background. Graduates in Computer Science are positioned for employment in a wide variety of jobs in the computing field. The CS major also prepares students for continued study of Computer Science at the graduate level. Students are encouraged to contact the department for further details (303-615-0399). The Computer Science BS degree program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://abet.org.

Student Outcomes


  1. Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions. 
  2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline. 
  3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts. 
  4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practices based on legal and ethical principles. 
  5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline. 
  6. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

General Degree Requirements


To earn a degree, students must satisfy all requirements in each of the four areas below, in addition to their individual major requirements. 

Program Requirements


  • A total of 120 semester hours are required for graduation.
  • A grade of “C-” or better is required in all CS courses included in the major, all ancillary courses, all required mathematics courses, and all science courses for the science requirement. Students should note that programs differ in the minimum grade required.

General Studies Requirements: 33 credits


Students should consult the General Studies Requirements  for a list of courses that fulfill the General Studies Requirements for degree completion. Some of the science, mathematics, and ancillary courses required for the CS major may partially or fully satisfy specific General Studies requirements. 

  • Written Communication (6 credits) 
  • Oral Communication (3 credits) 
  • Quantitative Literacy (3 credits) 
  • Arts and Humanities (6 credits) 
  • Historical (3 credits) 
  • Natural and Physical Sciences (6 credits) 
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits) 
  • Global Diversity (0 or 3 credits**) 

 

**Students will fulfill the global diversity requirement by taking an approved course within one of the following categories: arts and humanities; historical; natural and physical sciences; or social and behavioral sciences. 

Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Requirement: 0 or 3 credits


  • Students should consult the Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Graduation Requirement  for a list of courses that fulfill the ESSJ Requirement for degree completion.  
  • Many programs include courses that meet this requirement. Students should consult with their advisor to determine what program courses may fulfill this requirement.

Required Mathematics Courses: 12 credits


Science Requirement: 6 credits


A total of at least 6 credits of the following departmentally approved science courses.

Must include one of the following science sequences. Additional science course(s) may be chosen from the courses listed below, or ENV 1200 .

Required Ancillary Courses: 9 credits


Professional Presentation Requirement: 3 credits


Technical Writing Requirement: 3 credits


Computer Science Ethics Requirement: 3 credits


Required Computer Science Courses: 62 credits


Summary of Requirements


General Studies Requirements 33 credits
ESSJ Requirement 0-3 credits
Required Mathematics Courses 12 credits
Science Requirement 6 credits
Professional Presentation Requirement 3 credits
Technical Writing Requirement 3 credits
Computer Science Ethics Requirement 3 credits
Required Major Core Courses 46 credits
Major Upper Division Electives 12 credits
Senior Experience 4 credits
Unrestricted Electives 0-10 credits
Total for the Computer Science Major, B.S. 120 credits

Required courses for the major may also count for General Studies and ESSJ requirements, so the total credits listed may be greater than the number required to complete the degree. Therefore, it is important that you work with your advisor to make sure you are meeting requirements for your degree.

Note


As an alternative to the B.S. degree program, the Department of Computer Sciences works with the Center for Individualized Learning to provide students with programs customized to their educational needs.

 

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