About DU
Academics
Admissions
Student Life
Alumni and Friends
Search DU
Home
 

Home Faculty & Staff Computer Usage Policy
Mission Scholarship & Service Seminar Series
Programs Tutoring Faculty Position
Course Descriptions FAQ Department News
Course Schedule Apply Positions

Programs

The major objectives of the computer science program are to provide the student with a knowledge of the theoretical basis of computing, an appreciation for the relationship between the various components of the field, skills in applying the subject to practical problems, and an ability to adapt to new technologies and advancements. Courses in the curriculum give the student appropriate tools to identify problems best solved by means of a computer and to design and implement effective, economical, and creative solutions for them. Computer science graduates gain a breadth and depth of computing knowledge that is not fessible in other computer-related majors (Information System Management, Health Information Systems, Multimidia, etc.), which must cover discipline specific content in addition to computing concepts. Typically students gain practical exposure to a number of programming languages including C++, Java, Assembly, Lisp, and Prolog, and operating systems including Unix, Linux, and Windows. Offerings provide opportunities for students seeking courses supporting other disciplines as well as comprehensive programs leading to a major or a minor in computer science. Majors have the option of selecting a concentration in Games and Graphics, Networking, Systems, Theory, or Web.

Requirements for a Major

The student may choose to pursue a major in computer science with a program leading to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). The B.A. program, which requires a minimum of 30 semester hours in computer science, allows a great deal of flexibility for persons interested in combining the major with a strong minor or double major in a non-science discipline. The B.S. program, which requires a minimum of 40 semester hours in computer science, is recommended for students interested in scientific applications or study in computer science at the graduate level. Requirements for all majors are as follows:

  • Computer Science Core: 150, or 160, 215, 220, 300, and 325W.
  • Additional B.A. Computer Science Requirements: 15 additional hours at the 300 level or above (at least 6 of which must be taken at the 400 level). Students choosing the Web system Development concentration must include 401, 430, and 450 in their program.
  • Additional B.S. Computer Science Requirements: 25 hours at the 300 level or above. Included must be 480W, at least 9 hours at the 400 level or above and at least one course selected from 401, 410, 430, 445W, and 460.

    A grade of "C" or better is required in all computer science courses.

  • Mathematics/Science Requirements:
    • B.A.: 115-116 (Calculus I & II) and 135 (Discrete Mathematics)
    • B.S.: At least 30 credits of mathematics and science including: Mathematics: At least 15 credits including 115-116 (Calculus I & II) and 135 (Discrete Mathematics), and either 225 (Biostatistics) or 301 (Introduction to Probability and Statistics I) Science: At least 12 credits in courses acceptable for a major in the science discipline chosen and including at least one sequence chosen from the three options: BIOL 111-113 & 112-114, or CHEM 121-122, or PHYS 211-212.

Concentrations

To aid students in selecting elective courses, five concentrations have been identified. To fulfill a concentration, a student must take at least three of the four courses listed for that concentration. The courses that might typically be considered most central to a concentration are listed earlier in each list.

Games and Graphics:

COSC 425, COSC 410, COSC 450, COSC 430

Networking:

COSC 450, COSC 460, COSC 430, COSC 445W

Systems:

COSC 311, COSC 401, COSC 445W, COSC 305

Theory:

COSC 418, COSC 435, COSC 401, COSC 410

Web:

COSC 430, COSC 401, COSC 460, COSC 450

Requirements for a Minor

A minimum of 15 credits in computer science and 3 credits in Discrete Mathematics is required for a minor. All programs must include Computer Science 150 or 160, 215, and nine additional hours numbered 200 and above with at least 3 credits at the 300 level or above.

4/1 Program for B.S./M.S.

Outstanding students enrolled in a B.S. program in either mathematics or computer science may apply to the graduate program in Computational Mathematics. During the spring semester of a student's junior year, application to the graduate program can be made according to guidelines already established for regular admissions. Applicants are expected to present credentials that include a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25 and grade point averages in mathematics and computer science of at least 3.5. The GRE will not be required. The applicant should send a letter stating that he or she wishes to become a 4/1 student and should arrange for transcripts of undergraduate work and two letters of recommendation to be submitted along with the graduate application. At the successful completion of the program, the student will receive the B.S. degree in mathematics or computer science and the M.S. degree in Computational Mathematics. Please contact the director of the program, Dr. Mazur, for additional information.

   
 
 
 
Undergraduate College
Graduate School
Programs
Liberal Arts Home
Human Resources Athletics DU Daily and Events