Computer Science, BS

Computer Science Major

Computer Science deals with information structures and processes as they are represented and implemented in modern high-speed digital computers, and with information processing systems designed to implement useful applications of computing.

The program in computer science provides a solid foundation of knowledge about computers and teaches a mode of thinking that permits continuing growth on the part of graduates. Prospective students should have an aptitude for mathematics and logic and an interest in analysis and deduction.

Computer science is one of the fastest growing fields of study in our society. Excellent employment opportunities are available to computer science graduates. All of the major corporations hire computer science graduates. Graduates in Computer Science work for numerous Utah-based corporations, as well as Microsoft, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, etc.

The Computer Science bachelor’s degree is a four-year degree with areas of emphasis in Science, Digital Systems, Software Development, Bioinformatics, and Information Technology. In addition, by working with a departmental advisor, students may develop a plan of study tailored to their own unique career objectives.

Science Emphasis
The Science Emphasis (SC) is designed for those who plan to pursue scientific or technical careers, research, or graduate education in computer science. Students choosing the science emphasis  take courses in programming languages, advanced algorithms, and math courses in calculus, linear analysis, and multi-variable calculus. Additional courses include a variety of upper-division computer  science courses, chosen in consultation with an advisor. This emphasis might be termed the “typical” computer science degree.

Digital Systems Emphasis
The Digital Systems Emphasis is available for those interested in both the hardware and software aspects of computer systems. In addition to computer science and mathematics courses, students in this emphasis take electrical engineering  courses in electronics, circuits, digital fundamentals, microcomputer systems, and digital system design. The curriculum for students in this emphasis is similar to that for students in the computer engineering major in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department.

Bioinformatics Emphasis
The Bioinformatics Emphasis is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the computer science aspects of bioinformatics. Students in this emphasis gain a strong background in core computer science areas, such as programming, theory of computing, and software development. In addition, they follow a course of study in biology, chemistry, and statistics. Through this background and course of study, students are provided with the computational skills and the scientific  understanding necessary for work in bioinformatics.

Software Development Emphasis
The Software Development Emphasis (SD) is designed to give students expertise in all major areas of software engineering, including project management, development processes, group work, requirement capture and analysis, software design, programming, testing, standards, and documentation. Students completing this option are prepared to create sophisticated, reliable, and secure software for a broad range of applications. Students in this option take courses in computer science emphasizing software development processes, conceptual modeling, database design, testing, and security, along with broadening courses in operations research, statistics, and management.

Information Technology Emphasis
The Information Technology Emphasis trains students in all phases of analysis, design, and implementation of information technology. It also gives students expertise in the theory and application of information technology. At the same time, this emphasis provides students with a strong background in business principles, including accounting, finance, marketing, and human resource management. Students in the Information Technology emphasis are prepared for careers that straddle information technology and business, in both the private and public sectors. Students are trained in all phases of the analysis, design, and implementation of information systems. They also gain an understanding of business fundamentals. Thus, students are prepared to apply their computing expertise in a business environment.

Department and General College of Science Requirements

Courses Required for Advanced Standing

In order to achieve advanced standing (enter the professional program), students must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 (or grade of C- or better) among  courses in one of the following core emphasis course sequences, or their equivalent, as determined by the Computer Science Department:

Bachelor of Science Degree

The department offers a degree program with emphases in Science, Digital Systems, Software Development, Bioinformatics, and Information Technology. The objectives are to train computer scientists who can relate to science, computer design, or information-based business disciplines. Other areas of emphasis will be considered on an individual basis.