About the Department
Computer science is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses a broad range of topics. At one end of the spectrum, computer science focuses on the theoretical capabilities of computers and on the properties of general problems and algorithms. At the other end of the spectrum, computer science deals with techniques for the design and construction of systems and application software that is utilized by all aspects of our society. Graduates of the program will be prepared for admission to graduate study or for immediate employment in business, industry, or government positions involving computer systems and techniques.
The Department of Computer Science offers degrees at all levels. The bachelor of science degree was approved on June 2, 1978, and the first degree awarded in August 1981. The master of science degree was approved on April 17, 1976, and the first degree awarded in 1978. The doctor of philosophy (PhD) was formally established on August 30th, 1991.
We believe that we have an outstanding group of faculty and students within the department. We encourage you to continue to explore our web site and learn more about the department and the people within it.
Departmental History
The Department of Computer Science has been in existence for over thirty years. Our first undergraduates received their degrees in August of 1981, and the undergraduate curriculum is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Our first graduate degrees were awarded in 1978, and we now offer both the MS and the PhD degrees.
The Department has grown significantly from its initial size of seven faculty members and one program assistant. We now have fifteen tenured/tenure-track research faculty members, eight teaching faculty, numerous research engineers, and a staff of four. We currently enroll approximately 250 undergraduates and 75 graduate students. This past year our faculty generated over 70 publications (journal articles and conference publications) and $6 million in new research funding. We also taught more than 8,000 students in our service (literacy) courses.
Our main research focus continues to be in three primary areas: software engineering, systems (including networking and database), and foundations.
Mission Statement
The mission of the department is to provide a broad-based, high-quality education in computer science. Our programs should provide its graduates with a body of knowledge and an attitude toward learning that will enable them to contribute positively to the profession, and ultimately, to society itself. In order to accomplish this task, we must provide an academic experience that is sufficiently rich in both theory and practice to ensure the development of fundamentally sound, skilled graduates. Specifically, we must put into place a continuously improving program of study that ensures our students possess:
- An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
- An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
- An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs
- An ability to function effectively in teams to accomplish a common goal
- An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
- An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
- Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
- An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice
- An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices
- An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity