Department
Overview
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Computer science is the study of algorithms that describe and transform
information. As a computer science major, you design, implement and apply
algorithms to solve problems. Computer science is much more than computer
programming.
The fundamental question underlying all of computer science is "What can be
effectively automated?"
In the computer science program at Christian Brothers University (CBU) you
receive individual attention from your instructors and advisor. The program
combines computer related courses from the Schools of Business, Engineering
and Sciences. You obtain a cross disciplinary perspective of the field as a
result of taking courses with instructors from three different schools.
You take an integrated core of the following twelve courses:
- introduction to computer science
- fundamentals of computer science I
- object oriented design
- digital design
- fundamentals of computer science II
- operating systems
- database design
- computer networks
- topics in computer science
- information systems management
- internship
- senior project.
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Senior
Project
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The senior project is a capstone course that allows you to design and
implement a software system for a local business.
Some examples of senior projects follow:
- a membership manager for a civic group
- an appointment scheduler for an auto repair shop
- a security manager for a branch of city government
- a job scheduler for a branch of a grocery store
- a multiple choice quizzer for a department of a large local business
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Program
Option
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You select a program option in either business or engineering. Each
consists of a set of carefully selected, computer related courses. The
option enables you to obtain knowledge and skills in an applied
discipline.
In addition, you choose a minor in any area currently offered by
Christian Brothers University. The minor allows you to acquire
knowledge in an area of particular interest to you.
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Internships
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As a junior you work for a local firm as an intern for academic credit
where you learn practical skills. You use the concepts learned in the
classroom on the job. Some of these internships have led to full time
employment upon graduation.
CBU students have served as interns for local government, area
hospitals and local businesses.
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Program
Highlights
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Computer science courses stress the computer scientist's way of thinking
and problem solving. These courses prepare you with the ability to solve
problems in business. Since computer science is a rapidly changing field,
you must commit to lifelong learning.
The faculty in computer science are experienced teachers who are dedicated
to undergraduate instruction. They provide a rewarding academic experience
for you. You are able to consult with your instructor for personalized
assistance during office hours.
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Outcomes
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The computer science program at CBU provides you with a broad base of
knowledge that enables you to secure attractive employment upon graduation
and that allows you to adapt to the constantly changing technical market.
Job titles for CBU graduates include programmer analysts, software developers,
systems analysts, systems designers and
software consultants.
Recent employers include:
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Federal Express Corporation
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Electronic Data Systems
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Harrah's Entertainment
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City of Memphis
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Sofamor Danek
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private computer consulting firms
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Real World
Preparation
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The applied nature of the core, the program option in business or
engineering, the internship and the senior project all combine to prepare
you, as a computer science graduate, for a career in computing in the
technical work place. Almost all graduates obtain good jobs by or soon
after graduation.
You receive advice from your academic advisor and from the professional
staff in the Career Center about careers in computer science and related
fields.
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Achievements
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Several computer science majors have won National Science Foundation Summer
Research awards to conduct research in computer science under the
leadership of an academic expert.
One major was a member of a programming team that received an award in a
programming contest at a regional convention of the Institute for
Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
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Facilities
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You have access to the state of the art equipment
that Christian Brothers University has in its various engineering, science
and business labs. The Science Center contains a Computer Science Lab.
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Faculty
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You will take courses from faculty with advanced degrees in computer
science in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, with degrees
in information technology from the Department of Information Technology
Management of the School of Business and with degrees in electrical
engineering from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
of the School of Engineering. As a result you will experience multiple
views on the ever expanding and constantly changing field of computer science.
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