Computer Science
Why take courses in Computer Science?
Computers are everywhere, from cell phones to cars. Increasingly experts use computer science in their work, from neuroscience to sociology to music. The CS department provides a background in fundamentals of data science, logic, theory and programming, but we go beyond just coding. Students will learn how the computer revolution is changing society and our lives, and how they can help shape its impact.
What kinds of questions does the field of Computer Science explore?
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How can we use computers to solve problems?
- What is the role of technology in society?
- How can we make programmatic solutions faster, cheaper, and more user-friendly?
What advice would you give students interested in taking courses in Computer Science?
Take CSCI 150. It’s a rigorous, but approachable course that teaches computer science through a series of fun programming assignments designed to be similar to real world applications. It is designed to fit the needs of both majors and non-majors.
Taking Courses
Course placement
While there is no entrance survey or placement exam, students who have taken some Computer Science previously, but not AP Computer Science A, or a college course should contact the chair of the computer science department to discuss which course is the correct one for them to take.
Courses for non-majors or general interest
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CSCI 150 serves as a general interest course for students who are interested in learning some programming. It is designed to be an accessible introduction to programming and CS in general.
Students may also be interested in CSCI 144: Introduction to Data Science. CSCI 144 is open to any student across the college who wants to learn the foundations and applications of the full data science workflow, including data organization, visual representation, modeling, and presentation. For students with a CS background, this class will give them exposure to a range of statistical methodologies and how these methodologies can be employed in a computational framework, as well as developing a strong basis in the R programming language.
Getting started in the major
Students interested in the major should start with CSCI 150, unless they have AP credit or other prior experience. It is best to declare the major as soon as possible.
Advanced Placement Credit
Students may transfer AP Computer Science A (score of 4 or 5) toward the major requirements. Refer to the AP/IB chart for complete information about AP test scores.
Majoring in Computer Science
Provided are three examples of how a student could distribute courses required for the major over three or four years. See the catalog for additional details about major requirements.
Sample Four-Year Plans
| Fall | Spring | |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | CSCI 150 Math Elective |
CSCI 151 |
| Y2 | CSCI 241 MATH 220 |
CSCI 210 CSCI 280 |
| Y3 | CSCI 275 | CSCI 383 CSCI 3XX (elective) |
| Y4 | CSCI 3XX (elective) | CSCI 3XX (elective) |
| Fall | Spring | |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | CSCI 150 Math Elective |
|
| Y2 | CSCI 151 MATH 220 |
CSCI 241 |
| Y3 | CSCI 275 CSCI 280 |
CSCI 210 CSCI 383 |
| Y4 | CSCI 3XX CSCI 3XX (two electives) |
CSCI 3XX (elective) |
| Fall | Spring | |
|---|---|---|
| Y1 | ||
| Y2 | CSCI 150 Math Elective |
CSCI 151 MATH 220 |
| Y3 | CSCI 275 CSCI 241 |
CSCI 280 CSCI 210 |
| Y4 | CSCI 383 CSCI 3XX (elective) |
CSCI 3XX CSCI 3XX (two electives) |
Please refer to the prerequisite and course sequence pages for additional information on the Computer Science major.
Related Areas of Study
Archaeological Studies; Biochemistry; Biology; Chemistry; Economics; Environmental Studies; Geosciences; Mathematics; Neuroscience; Physics
Learn More
Computer Science Major Requirements
Computer Science Department