Department of Computer Science

Computer Science and Information Systems

“Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes.” – Edsger W. Dijkstra

“Technical skill is mastery of complexity, while creativity is mastery of simplicity.” – Erik Christopher Zeeman

The courses of study provided by the Computer Science and Information Systems programs offer students a selection that prepares them for success in system administration, scientific research, data processing management, and systems analysis. The programs provide students with the essential theoretical foundation and practical implementation of the science of computing. This foundation includes algorithms and data structures, architecture, artificial intelligence, information retrieval, human-computer interaction, numerical and symbolic computation, operating systems, programming languages, and software engineering.

Our students enjoy several important advantages: a direct, personal connection to qualified, experienced faculty who are eager to help them master the subject matter, ready access to technological resources from both on and off campus, and excellent job opportunities in the immediate vicinity that apply classroom learning. Students have access to Sun workstations, Pentiums, and PowerMacs where they can work on projects at their own rate in and outside of class. Many students have omputer-related jobs with local employers that allow them to earn money and learn about computing at the same time. Upon acquiring sufficient background knowledge, every WAU student has the opportunity to work the equivalent of two full-time semesters at a challenging computer-related job through WAU’s Cooperative Education Program.

Efforts are made to accommodate students’ diverse learning styles. Women, people from underrepresented groups, and non-traditional students are especially urged to enroll in the computing programs.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of WAU who have completed a major or minor in Computer Science or Information Systems have been in great demand by employers and by graduate programs in computer-related fields. Many are working in the Washington, D.C., area at government installations and business institutions, pursuing careers in programming, systems analysis, systems design, information systems, image processing, software development, and artificial intelligence.

Recent employment studies have shown that students in the field of compute science are among the most employable upon graduation. Since many of these careers require further study, the programs offered by the department provide a broad and strong background for advanced study.

PROGRAMS OFFERED

  • Associate of Applied Science | Computer Science
  • Associate of Applied Science | Information Systems
  • Bachelor of Science | Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Science | Information Systems

Minors:

  • Computer Science
  • Information Systems
  • Web Design and Development

Read the Department of Computer Science section in the Academic bulletin.

Department Information

Dr. Michael Lee, Chair

For program information:

Phone: 301-891-4136
Fax: 301-891-4067
Email: mlee@wau.edu

Science Building, Room 315