The Computer Science program supports the mission of the University by providing education in computing through a baccalaureate degree in computer information systems. Computer information systems offers an undergraduate curriculum of applied skills and concepts. Because computing professionals must be lifelong learners, the faculty is committed to preparing students with substantial knowledge, practical skills, critical thinking skills, and an awareness of the social and ethical impacts of their work.
The major in computer information systems is a program specifically designed to create a career-ready graduate. The emphasis of study in this program is on acquiring the knowledge and skills required to design, implement and manage technology for the IT-enabled organization. Graduates of this program will be prepared for entry into a variety of positions in business and industry with a sound foundation for future advancement based on technical competence, liberal education and effective communication skills. Along with a major in Computer Information Systems, students can choose a concentration in Web Design and Cybersecurity.
Requirements
A bachelor of arts degree is awarded in computer information systems.
The 44 credit hours must consist the following:
- Required courses:
- CMPSC 112: Survey of Computer Science (3)
- CMPSC 126: Business Programming (4)
- CMPSC 206: World Wide Web Applications I (3)
- CMPSC 222: Visual Data (3)
- CMPSC 235: Systems Analysis and Design (3)
- CMPSC 255: Introduction to Networks (3)
- CMPSC 256: Operating Systems for the Practitioner (3)
- CMPSC 281: Cybersecurity I (3)
- CMSPC 309: Issues in Computing (3)
- CMPSC 321: Relational Database Theory and Design (4)
- CMPSC 395: Computer Information Systems Capstone (3)
- Elective courses: three other CMPSC courses offered by the department at the 200-level or above or on the approved list of interdisciplinary electives (or a combination of both).
Many of the required courses are the first course in a sequence of courses that provide more depth in the computer information systems field. Majors are encouraged to deepen their knowledge by completing any of the following sequence:
- Cybersecurity: CMPSC 281, CMPSC 282, CMPSC 285
- Cisco CCNA Networking Certification: CMPSC 255, CMPSC 266, CMPSC 267, CMPSC 268
- Web App Development: CMPSC 206, CMPSC 306
Alternatively, majors may broaden their study by applying knowledge to other fields. The following courses also count toward the computer information systems major:
- Digital Marketing: MKTG 350, MKTG 355
- IT Management: MGMT 370, 330
As stated in the Catalog, MGMT 350 and MGMT 355 have a prerequisite of MGMT 300. However, this prerequisite is waived for Computer Information Systems majors who have at least junior standing.
A grade of C or better is required in all courses counting toward the major.
Cybersecurity Concentration
Students electing to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Cybersecurity must complete the University general education requirements, Computer Information Systems program requirements, and the required concentration courses listed below:
- CMPSC 281: Introduction to Cybersecurity I
- CMPSC 282: Introduction to Cybersecurity II
- CMPSC 265: Network Security
- CMPSC 285: Digital Forensics
Web Design Concentration
Students electing to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Web Design must complete the University general education requirements, Computer Information Systems program requirements, and the required concentration courses listed below:
- CMPSC 132: User Experience I: Understanding User Experience
- CMPSC 232: User Experience II: Building Compelling User Experiences
- CMPSC 393: Goal-Oriented Web Design (Note that CMPSC 393 replaces CMPSC 390)