Students may seek an academic major in computer studies.
Major in Computer Studies
The computer studies major provides in-depth knowledge in practical applications of computing. The coherent and flexible program of study includes areas such as digital media, gaming, and Web-based technologies. The interdisciplinary approach allows students to integrate courses from several specialized areas in computing. Graduates are prepared for a variety of entry- and midlevel technical and management positions within the digital media, Web technology, gaming, and computing industries.
objectives
The student who graduates with a major in computer studies will be able to
G Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental principles of computing.
G Describe the purpose, function, and terminology associated with business applications software. G Evaluate, select, and master use of the appropriate
computer applications to solve a variety of information processing problems.
G Develop classroom products that demonstrate an understanding of Web design, administration, and application development using the latest tools and emerging technologies.
G Create, analyze, and critique print-based and interactive media.
G Define and explain the concepts, theories, techniques, principles, and practices which govern the use, design, and development of digital media, gaming, and Web-based technologies.
degree Requirements
A degree with a major in computer studies requires the successful completion of 120 credits of coursework including 30 credits for the major (indicated by F); 41 credits in general education requirements (GERs); and 49 credits in the minor, electives, and other degree requirements. At least 15 credits in the major must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above).
requirements for the Computer Studies Major
Coursework for a major in computer studies includes the following:
G Programming language course (3 credits): Chosen from CMIS 141, CMIS 170, CMSC 130, and CMST 306
G Foundation courses (6 credits): Chosen from CMIS 241 (or CMSC 230); IFSM 300 and 310; and CMST 340
G Supplemental major courses (21 credits, 15 of which must be upper-level): CMIS102/102A (for students without prior programming experience) and any CMST, CMIS, CMIT, CMSC, and IFSM courses (Note: Students should take CMIS 102 before core courses and may apply it toward the interdisciplinary issues/computing requirements rather than toward the major.)
Recommended Sequence
The following course sequence will fulfill all of the requirements for the BS in computer studies. Since some recommended courses fulfill more than one requirement, substituting courses for those listed may make it necessary to take additional courses to meet degree requirements. Students should consult an academic advisor whenever taking advantage of other options. Information on alternate courses (where allowable) to fulfill general education requirements (in communications, arts and humanities, behavioral and social sciences, biological and physical sciences, mathematics, and interdisciplinary issues) may be found on p. 67.
ComPUTER sTUdiEs mAJoR CoURsEs
Credits First Courses
(to be taken within the first 18 credits)
Note: Placement tests are required for math and writing courses. LIBS 150 Information Literacy and Research Methods 1 WRTG 101/101X Introduction to Writing 3 MATH 103 College Mathematics 3 or MATH 107 College Algebra
or a higher-level math course
introductory Courses
(to be taken within the first 30 credits)
PHIL 140 Contemporary Moral Issues 3 or ENGL 240 Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama
or other ARTH, ARTT, HIST, HUMN, MUSC, PHIL, THET, dance, literature, or foreign language course to fulfill the first general education requirement in arts and humanities
IFSM 201 Introduction to Computer-Based Systems 3 or CMST 303 Advanced Application Software
BIOL 101 Concepts of Biology 3 and BIOL 102 Laboratory in Biology 1 or BIOL 103 Introduction to Biology
or other course(s) to fulfill the general education requirement in biological and physical sciences with related laboratory CMIS 102 Introduction to Problem Solving
and Algorithm Design 3 Or other course to fulfill the second general education requirement in interdisciplinary issues/computing
WRTG 291 Expository and Research Writing 3 or other course to fulfill the general education requirement in communications/writing GVPT 170 American Government 3
or other ANTH, BEHS, ECON, GEOG, GVPT, PSYC, SOCY, or eligible AASP, CCJS, GERO, or WMST course to fulfill the first general education requirement in behavioral and social sciences
CMIS 306F Introduction to Visual Basic .Net
Programming 3
or CMIS 141 Introductory Programming
or other computer programming language course
Foundation Courses
(to be taken within the first 60 credits)
IFSM 300F Information Systems in Organizations 3
or other foundation major course (see Requirements for the Major)
PSYC 100 Introduction to Psychology 3 or SOCY 100 Introduction to Sociology
or other course to fulfill the second general education requirement in behavioral and social sciences (discipline must differ from first) CMST 340F Computer Application in Management 3
or other foundation major course (see Requirements for the Major)
NSCI 100 Introduction to Physical Science 3 or ASTR 100 Introduction to Astronomy
or other course to fulfill the general education requirement in biological and physical sciences HIST 142 Western Civilization II 3 or HIST 157 History of the United States Since 1865
or other ARTH or HIST course to fulfill the general education requirement in arts and humanities for the historical perspective (discipline must differ from other humanities course)
ANTH 344 Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics 3 (recommended elective)
SPCH 100 Foundations of Speech Communication 3 or SPCH 101 Introduction to Public Speaking
or other course to fulfill the general education requirement in communications/ writing or speech
IFSM 304 Ethics in the Information Age 3 recommended elective
Additional Required Courses
(to be taken after introductory and foundation courses)
WRTG 393/393X Advanced Technical Writing 3 or other course to fulfill the
upper-level advanced writing requirement CMST 310F Electronic Publishing 3
or other supplemental major course (see Requirements for the Major)
CMST 416F Advanced Visual Basic.NET Programming 3 or other supplemental major course
(see Requirements for the Major)
CMST 385F Internet and Web Design 3 or other supplemental major course
(see Requirements for the Major)
CMST 386F Advanced Internet and Web Design 3
or other supplemental major course (see Requirements for the Major)
CMIS 430F Web Site Management 3
or other supplemental major course (see Requirements for the Major)
CMST 450F Web Design with XML 3 or other supplemental major course
(see Requirements for the Major) CMST 460F Web Application Development
Using ColdFusion 3
or other supplemental major course (see Requirements for the Major)
minor and/or Elective Courses
(to be taken in the last 60 credits along
with required major courses) 43 Recommended minor:
Business administration
total credits for BS in computer studies 120
F Required for the major