Department of Computing Sciences

Mission Statement

The Department of Computing Sciences serves students seeking degrees in computing-related fields, those who are interested in the application of computing to other fields, and other majors with computing-related educational needs. The faculty is committed to following the teacher-scholar model and providing high-quality educational experiences for students through dynamic classroom and laboratory experiences, collaborative research and scholarship opportunities, internship programs, and innovative course offerings, with the goal of preparing students to become knowledgeable, productive, responsible citizens. Graduates with a degree in computer science, information systems, or information technology will be prepared to excel in graduate studies and professional careers, conduct themselves ethically as professionals in the field of computing and consider the impacts of technology on society, and adapt to ongoing technological advances in the discipline. In addition to providing a high-quality, student-centered learning environment for its majors, the department will assist other departments as needed by providing computing education tailored to the needs of their majors.

Program Educational Objectives

Program Educational Objectives are broad statements describing what our students are expected to obtain within a few years after graduation. Our program graduates are expected to be:

1. Contributing to society through the application of strong core competencies in the field,

2. Demonstrating a commitment to professional and ethical practice, and

3. Successfully adapting to technical, societal, and environmental changes by building upon strong foundational competencies.

Student Learning Outcomes

Computer Science, Information Systems, and Information Technology students are expected to achieve the following by graduation:

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.

Computer Science students are also expected to achieve the following by graduation:

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

Information Systems students are also expected to achieve the following by graduation:

6. Support the delivery, use, and management of information systems within an information systems environment.

Information Technology students are also expected to achieve the following by graduation:

6. Identify and analyze user needs and to take them into account in the selection, creation, integration, evaluation, and administration of computing-based systems.

To achieve these educational goals, the Department of Computing Sciences offers three degrees.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science requires additional courses in computer science, mathematics, and the sciences. This degree is designed to prepare students for graduate work in computer science and for computer-related careers in industry.

Note: The computer science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems requires additional courses in computer science, information systems, and mathematics. Students will also apply their skills and knowledge to and information systems environment as part of their program of study. This degree is designed to prepare students for graduate work in information systems and for related positions in business and industry.

Note: The information systems program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology requires additional courses in information systems and information technology. This degree is designed to prepare graduates for both positions in technology and technology management, as well as for future graduate work in the field.

Internship Education

Internship education is a mutually-beneficial partnership among students, employers and the Department of Computing Sciences at Coastal Carolina University. Internship education provides an excellent way to apply skills and information learned in the classroom to a real world setting while gaining invaluable experience. Students of junior year or higher may pursue an internship with the assistance of the department internship coordinator while also enrolling in CSCI 497 - Computer Science Internship (1 to 3 credits) .

Notebook Computer Requirement

Students majoring or minoring in the Department of Computing Sciences are required to own a personal notebook computer capable of running virtualization software. Mobile phones, tablet devices, Chromebooks, Streambooks, netbooks, and similar appliances with limited functionality are not acceptable. Recommended specifications, updated annually, are available from the Department of Computing Sciences.

Programs

Majors/Degrees

Minors