Computer Science

Department Head:	Dr. Michele Van Dyne
	(406) 496-4855
	MUS 204B

Administrative Assistant:	Tami Windham
	(406) 496-4366
	MUS 201

Department FAX:	(406) 496-4756

The Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org. It is housed in the Computer Science department which provides instruction and laboratory experience to students of most other majors on campus. The program maintains a balance of theory and practical experience, made possible by low class sizes and a low student to faculty ratio. The Computer Science department laboratory is centrally located between faculty offices, enabling significant student-faculty interaction. This lab contains computers running MS Windows and access to the department Linux servers.

(Note: If you are interested in a career in software development, also see the Software Engineering program description in this catalog.)

Program Mission

Our program prepares students to create innovative software solutions. Our graduates positively influence how computer software affects society and carry on our institution’s tradition of excellence. Our graduates have excellent skills, a “can do” attitude and meet industry expectations right out of college.

Educational Objectives

During the first three to five years after graduation our CS graduates will have:

Adapted, thrived, and contributed in an industry setting or completed a graduate program
Contributed to the continual improvement and competitiveness of their workplace.
Demonstrated an ongoing commitment to professional development.

Student Outcomes

At the time of graduation, all students will have demonstrated:

An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline;
An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
An ability to design, implement and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs;
An ability to function effectivley on teams to accomplish a common goal;
An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security, and social issues and responsibilities;
An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organization and society;
Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, continuing professional development;
An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practices;
An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices;
An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.

Minor in Computer Science

Please refer to Academic Program Minors .

Programs

Bachelor of Science

Non-Degree