The programs in computer science provide a theoretically based education in computer science, coupled with practical objectives. Students are exposed to a broad range of fundamental concepts in such areas as software engineering, computer organization, database systems, management information systems and operating systems, as well as to a wide variety of computer applications. The core curriculum of required courses can be supplemented by a concentration of courses in a specialized area.

The program requires the successful completion of at least 120 credits of coursework. Graduates of the program, many of whom enter the industry, are prepared to function well in most computing environments. They are familiar with a spectrum of fundamental principles and have been encouraged to approach problems with creativity.

Prerequisites: elementary and intermediate algebra, plane geometry, trigonometry and two units of science.

CAC-ABET Accreditation

The B.S. in Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org.

 

 

Educational objectives

The program will produce graduates who:

  • Utilize a varied and balanced educational experience with an appropriate combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that enable entrance into and advancement in the profession of computer science.
  • Build on educational knowledge and experience to continue formal education and obtain advanced degrees in the fields of computer science, management information systems, business administration, or computer engineering.
  • Continue to develop as responsible professionals and global citizens who are mindful of ethical issues, societal needs, and problems inherent in the computing field.

Student Outcomes

The B.S. Computer Science program has adopted the Student Outcomes of the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET as its own learning outcomes, which define the attributes, skills, and knowledge that the graduates are expected to possess upon or before graduation. Each computer science graduate will have an ability to:

  • Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
  • Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
  • Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
  • Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions. [CS]

Degree Plan

Computer science requirements, 39 credits

Mathematics requirements, 17 credits

Science requirements, 8 credits

Liberal Arts/Humanities /Social Science requirements, 26 credits

  • WRIT1002    Composition I:  Rhetoric & Inquiry
  • WRIT1003    Composition II:  Research & Argument
  • ENGR2210 Technical Communications
  • ENGR4210 Managerial & Eng’g Economic Analysis
  • ENGR3000 Modern Technologies: Principles, Applications, and Impacts
  • UNIV1001 Transitioning to University Life, 1 credit
  • UNIV1002 Preparing for Professional Life, 1 credit
  • UNIV2001 Cross-cultural Perspectives
  • UNIV2002 Global Issues
  • Humanities Elective: Three credits of any course that has the prefix ENGL (except developmental ENGL), HIST, HUMN, LANG, PHIL, or RELI, or the following ART courses: ART1103, 1107, 1108, 1120, 1131, 1133, 1135, 1136, 1137, 2137, and 2238.

Free electives, 15 credits

  • CS Elective: Three credits of coursework
  • Technical Elective (9 credits)
  • Elective (3 credits)

Concentration requirements, 15 credits

Students must complete any one of three concentration areas: Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, Big Data Analytics, Game and Mobile Application Development. Each concentration requires the successful completion of five courses (15 credits). Students completing the BS in Computer Science with a concentration in the Cybersecurity and Information Assurance concentration are eligible to receive a Certificate of Completion of a NSA & DHS designated CAE-CDE program of study from FDU’s Center for Cybersecurity and Information Assurance (CCIA). Students pursuing a concentration in Game and Mobile Application Development are recommended to take two computer animation courses from the School of Art and Media Studies as a Free Elective and a Technical Elective in the B.S. Computer Science curriculum.

Cybersecurity and Information Assurance

Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Student Outcomes

The B.S. Computer Science graduates with a concentration in cybersecurity and information assurance will additionally have an ability to:

  • Apply security principles and practices to maintain operations in the presence of risks and threats. [CY]
  • Assess vulnerabilities of components, connections, and systems for data protection, privacy, and threat mitigation.

Big Data Analytics

Big Data Analytics Student Outcomes

The B.S. Computer Science graduates with a concentration in big data analytics will additionally have an ability to:

  • Analyze data analytics algorithms and Big Data analytics frameworks.
  • Apply data and Big Data analytics methods to projects and products.

Game and Mobile Application Development

Game and Mobile Application Development Student Outcomes

The B.S. Computer Science graduates with a concentration in game & mobile application development will additionally have an ability to:

  • Apply multimedia data processing algorithms
  • Develop applications on different platforms
Accreditation