COMPUTING SCIENCES

Otto Miller Hall
206-281-2140
www.spu.edu/depts/csc

FACULTY:  Philip  Prins, Michael H Tindall, Elaine V Weltz

The Department of Computing Sciences prepares students to do the following:

• Employ critical thinking skills and efficient computer-based methods to analyze and solve challenging problems.
• Utilize computing technologies in a socially responsible manner.
• Apply their expertise wherever they serve in the world. 

We seek to provide a well-focused program of studies in the theoretical and applied aspects of modern computing-related disciplines, informed by a Christian worldview and graduating students who are equipped for continued professional development and service.

Both bachelor of science (B.S.) and bachelor of arts (B.A.) degree alternatives are offered. The B.S. in computer science is a traditional degree that combines full coverage of the core areas of computer science with an emphasis on scientific and engineering foundations. The B.S. in information systems combines the core areas of computer science with an emphasis on integrating information technology solutions and organizational processes to meet the information needs of both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. 

The B.A. in computer science emphasizes problem solving, organizing and synthesizing ideas, and applications of computing theory. This option provides flexibility for students to pursue additional specializations in other academic areas. It embraces the premise that graduates working in computer-related areas will find that their careers develop in unexpected ways due to their wide range of interests aside from computer science.

A variety of computing equipment is available to SPU to support coursework and independent-study activities. A fiber-optic Ethernet network and wireless networking link all parts of the campus computing environment. The open student laboratory contains about 30 modern Windows PC systems, each with full Ethernet connectivity and with access to printers and appropriate software packages. The CSC Projects laboratory contains a configurable 8-node network cluster for student coursework and projects involving high-performance concurrent and distributed computing networks.

It is recommended that students majoring in the computing sciences obtain their own Windows-compatible PC to gain the full experience of configuring and maintaining a computer system. A suitable system would be based on a fast Pentium or Athlon processor with 1 GB memory, a 200 GB hard drive, USB, Ethernet, and printer. Software should include Windows Vista or XP, Microsoft Visual Studio .NET, Microsoft Word, and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Some courses may require other software that will be available in the student laboratory or for separate purchase. Most recommended software is available with educational pricing through Computer and Information Systems, or at the SPU Bookstore.

Preliminary Prerequisites

High school pre-calculus or math analysis is required.

Admission and GPA Requirement
A minimum 2.5 GPA (cumulative in all courses required for the major taken at SPU) is required for admission to the major. Additionally, a minimum 2.0 (C grade) must be earned in CSC 2430, and a minimum 1.7 (C- grade) must be earned in each other course required for the major. A student must complete the major requirements in effect when the student is admitted to the major.

Recommended for All Degree Options

Because writing and communication skills are important for computer scientists, the following courses are recommended for all students majoring or minoring in computer science: ENG 3205 Writing in the Professions and COM 1101 Introduction to Interpersonal Communications.

Requirements for the B.S. in Computer Science Major
106 credits; 48 upper-division.
Click the link above for requirements for a summary of degree requirements. The B.S. in computer science major is the traditional degree in computer science. It provides preparation for graduate studies or professional careers in computer science, with an emphasis on scientific and engineering foundations.

Requirements for the B.A. in Computer Science Major
71 credits; 41 upper-division.
The B.A. in computer science major is a liberal arts oriented degree in computer science. It emphasizes preparation in the core areas of computer science and provides flexibility to pursue additional specializations in other academic areas.

Requirements for the B.S. in Information Systems Major
81 credits; 51 upper-division.
The B.S. in information systems major combines the core areas of computer science with an emphasis on integrating information technology solutions and organizational processes to meet the information needs of diverse enterprises.

Requirements for the Minor in Computer Science

Related Degree Programs

B.S. in Computational Mathematics. Combines computational and applied mathematics with a strong base in computer science. For more information, refer to the information under mathematics.

B.S. in Computer Engineering. Combines strong bases in computer science, digital electronics, and engineering. For more information, refer to the information in engineering.

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