Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program (BSCS) explores a broad spectrum of computing technologies and concepts and is designed for students planning to attend graduate school to earn M.S. or Ph.D. degree and/or seek position in industry or government as a software/cyber security specialist.  

The program educational objectives, listed below, establish career and professional accomplishments that the program is preparing graduates to attain, within about 3-5 years of graduation.  This program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET(HTTP://WWW.ABET.ORG), 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012, telephone 410-347-7700.

The Computer Science program enrollment and graduation trend for the period 2015-2018

Computer Science enrollment & graduation trend (Source: University Annual Fact Books)                             

program educational objectives

The program educational objectives address career and professional accomplishments that the program is preparing graduates to attain, within about 3-5 years of graduation. 

1. Demonstrate a broad knowledge of mathematics and computer science serving as a foundation for lifelong learning; 
2. Effectively perform in industry, government, or entrepreneurial endeavors utilizing their education in mathematics and computer science with a profound appreciation for the social and environmental context of a diverse global work setting; 
3. Effectively communicate computing knowledge and problem-solving skills; 
4. Pursue graduate study, research, and training to enhance their knowledge base; and 
5. Demonstrate professional advancement through integrity, meritorious technical achievements, and expanded leadership responsibility. 

STUDENT OUTCOMES ALIGNED WITH ABET

In addition to achieving departmental goals, graduates of the computer science program should have:

a.   An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline; 

b.   An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution; 

c.   An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs; 

d.   An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal; 

e.   An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities; 

f.   An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences; 

g.   An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society; 

h.  Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development; 

i.   An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

j.   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; and 

k.   An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.

Curriculum

The Claflin University undergraduate Computer Science (CS) curriculum provides a strong foundation in computer science as well as specialized knowledge through the student’s choice of track. The CS curriculum provides knowledge that is applicable across many fields, including many areas of engineering, science, and medicine. The curriculum specifies that a student must take a minimum of 50 hours of computer science coursework.

Scientific method and scientific research practices are also covered in Sophomore, Junior and Senior seminar courses with the requirement of submitting work toward the completion of the Senior Capstone Project.

Student Opportunities and Experience

Students work with outreach initiatives to improve computer science education at all levels. One of these initiatives is the STARS (Students & Technology in Academia, Research & Service) Alliance a regional partnerships among academia, industry, K-12 and the community to strengthen local programs by focusing on K-12 outreach, community service, student leadership and computing diversity research.

Students work with many programs focused on increasing the computing pipeline by getting students interested in STEM disciplines and future technology careers. These programs include The Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Our students conduct outreach activities to include the local elementary, middle, and high school in a concerted effort to broaden participation in computing for underrepresented minorities and girls. These workshops include teaching boys and girls from K-12 how to write programs, develop websites, and program robots.

Careers and Outcomes

Graduates of the Mathematics and Computer Science program will be able to apply their knowledge of mathematics and computer science to the discipline. Students will be able to analyze a problem and define the requirements appropriate to its solution. Students will be able to design, develop, and implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, or program to meet the desire needs. They will be able to effectively work on teams to accomplish common goals.

A degree in computer science offers many options. Career options are limitless. Job opportunities are increasing daily with competitive salaries and a secure future. So what can one do with a job in computer science?

The graduate can become a

• Software application developer
• Computer Systems Analyst
• Computer Systems Engineer
• Network Systems Administrator
• Database Administrator
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Web Developer
• Computer Programmer
• Software Systems Developer
• Software Quality Assurance (QA) Tester

Computer Science Career Resources

Explore Computer Science Careers
https://www.computerscience.org/careers/
 
Computer Science Scholarships
https://www.computerscience.org/scholarships/