Department of Computer Science (CS)
Edward G. Pekarek, Jr., Chair
Jay B. Fenwick, Jr.
Kenneth H. Jacker
Barry L. Kurtz
Alice A. McRae
Cindy A. Norris
Dolores A. Parks
C. Ray Russell
Rahman Tashakkori
James T. Wilkes
Computer science is a rapidly evolving discipline that ranges from theoretical
studies of algorithms to practical problems of design and implementation of
efficient, reliable software and hardware. Computer science intermingles
theoretical concepts with modern practical applications of the science.
The Computer Science Accrediting Board (the national organization that sets
undergraduate standards for computer science programs) lists computing theory,
algorithms and data structures, programming methodology and languages, computer
elements and architecture as the crucial areas of computer science. Other areas
include software engineering, artificial intelligence, database systems,
computer networking, parallel and distributed systems, computer-human
interaction, computer graphics, operating systems, and numerical and symbolic
computation.
The Department of Computer Science offers a well-rounded educational experience
by providing opportunities for experiential learning through cooperative
education. Students interested in cooperative education should contact the
Cooperative Education Program in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Graduates in computer science are prepared for graduate study in computer
science or work in the computing industry. It is estimated nationally that
there are four open positions in industry for every computer science graduate.
This shortage of computer scientists has created outstanding career
opportunities for computer science graduates.
Every computer science major is assigned an advisor. Degree candidates should
seek approval of their program of study as early as possible in their career,
but no later than three semesters before they intend to graduate. For additional
information, contact the chairperson of the Department of Computer Science.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science requires a minimum of 122
semester hours for the degree. In addition to the core curriculum and major
requirements, electives must be taken to meet the total required minimum hours.
Two semester hours of free electives OUTSIDE the major discipline are
required.
B.S. COMPUTER SCIENCE
This program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the
Accreditation Board for Enginering and Technology, 111 Market Place, Suite
1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012 - Telephone: (410) 347-7700.
1. CS 1100, 1440, 2440, 2450, 2490, 3460, 3481, 3482, 3490, 4100, and 4667.
2. MAT 1110, 1120, 2240, and STT 3850.
3. At least eleven hours of electives in computer science. These courses must
be selected from CS courses numbered above 2000 (excluding 3520) and may
include MAT 4310. No more than three hours of CS 3470 may be
included in the eleven hours.
4. Take one of the following science sequences: PHY 1150-1151, CHE 1101, 1110
and 1102, 1120.
5. Select additional courses from the list below to complete a minimum of
twelve hours of science course work, subject to the restriction that if
PHY 1150-1151 is taken to satisfy #4, PHY 1103-1104 may not be taken, and
that prerequisites must be observed.
BIO 1110, 2000, 2001
CHE 1101, 1110 and 1102, 1120; 2201, 2203 and 2202, 2204;
2210, 3301, 3302
GLY 1101-1102-1103, 1510-1511
AST 1001-1002
PHY 1150-1151, 1103-1104, 2010-2020
Certificate Program in Computer Science
The Department of Computer Science offers a certification program in computer
science for students who have received a bachelor's degree in another area and
wish to undertake a study of computer science. Students who gain certification
through the program are well suited for professional opportunities available in
the computing industry. In addition, the certification process is designed to
allow interested students to prepare for graduate study in computer science.
A student with limited college mathematics experience must take the Mathematics
Placement Test before entering the program. Students wishing to enter the
certificate program should contact the chairperson of the Department of
Computer Science.
To gain the Certificate in Computer Science, a student is required to earn a
minimum of 33 credits in computer science and mathematics (excluding CS 1410
and math courses with numbers lower than MAT 1110). Credits toward
certification can be transferred from course work completed before or after
receiving the bachelor's degree. Included among the 33 credits must be the
following:
A. At least 21 credits must be courses in computer science or mathematics
at the 2000 level or higher at Appalachian after the student has
received a bachelor's degree.
B. Of the 21 credits listed in part A, at least 15 credits must be in
computer science; CS 3460, Data Structures, is required.
C. At least 9 credits must be approved math elective courses. A discrete
mathematics course and calculus course must be included among these
credits.
Upon successfully completing all courses in the program within a 5-year period
with a grade point average of 2.5 or better in the program, the student will be
awarded the Certificate in Computer Science. Successful completion of the
certificate program does not guarantee admission to the Master's Degree Program
in Computer Science.
Minor in Computer Science
A minor in computer science consists of 12 hours in computer science at
the 2000 level or higher, excluding CS 3470 and CS 3520.
M.S. in Computer Science
The Department of Computer Science offers a Master of Science degree in
Computer Science. Persons interested in this program should consult the
Graduate Bulletin for further information.
COURSES OF INSTRUCTION IN COMPUTER SCIENCE (CS)
This catalog reflects only the fall and spring semester courses. Courses
offered in summer terms can be found in the Summer Sessions Bulletin. (For a
description of the course abbreviations used in the following list of courses,
see the index for abbreviations.)