Computer Science and Information Technology Degrees

Mission Statement

The Department of Computer Science prepares the next generation for service in computing by bridging theory and practice with a commitment to excellence and caring.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

The Computer Science program is designed to provide a foundation in computer information systems to prepare graduates to succeed in the IT profession as well as graduate school. The Computer Science degree offers three concentrations: Data Science, Scientific and Pre-MBA. Interested in an internship?

Program Educational Objectives

 

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) or “Measurable Outcomes”:

The student outcomes are listed below:

1. Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.

2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.

3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.

4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.

5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.

6. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

Data Science Concentration

The Data Science Concentration is a multi-disciplinary field that mainly integrates computer science, math, and information science. This concentration aims to teach how to process data and utilize the processed data by means of algorithms that mimics human intelligence. The Data Science concentration is especially appropriate for students wishing to pursue a graduate degree in data science leading ultimately to a research career or application development for data analysis.

Scientific Concentration

The Scientific Concentration provides a comprehensive computer science foundation that prepares students to design and implement software to solve computing problems. It covers applied topics, but emphasizes theoretical understanding of computer science, including an ability to use advanced mathematics to solve scientific problems and to work closely with other scientists to devise new ways of using computers. This concentration is especially appropriate for students wishing to pursue a graduate degree in computer science, leading ultimately to a career in academic or industrial research.

Pre-MBA Concentration (Previously called Information Systems)

The Pre-MBA Concentration is intended for students who want to apply computer science in a management setting. Having grown out of a business perspective, this concentration focuses on managing information, projects, and other technical professionals. Although it still contains a significant core of theoretical and applied computer science, the curriculum also includes business and management courses to educate students in the organizational side of computer science, as well as fairly advanced mathematics, enabling students to manage scientific computing projects and personnel more effectively. Upon graduation, students can earn an MBA degree from Southeastern within one year, assuming they take BLAW 231 their graduating semester and meet the admissions requirements for graduate school. 

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology prepares students with practical, hands-on expertise to solve everyday computing problems. High achieving students can apply for the ACE program (Accelerated Computing Engagement) program which is a pathway to earning the Bachelor’s in Information Technology in three years and includes several perks including a direct opportunity to an internship experience.

The curriculum includes theoretical computer science topics and enough mathematics for graduates to successfully converse with other computing professionals. However, this concentration focuses much more on the applications of computer science, and as such does not require as many higher mathematics courses as the other concentrations. As part of this applied focus, students in this concentration satisfy an application area component, a series of electives designed to enable a deeper study of one particular computing application. Careers in this concentration focus on developing, supporting, and administrating the computing technology that has become critical to all organizations.

Program Educational Objectives

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) or “Measurable Outcomes”:

The student outcomes are listed below:

1. Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.

2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.

3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.

4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.

5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.

6. Use systemic approaches to select, develop, apply, integrate, and administer secure computing technologies to accomplish user goals.