About Computer Science
Computer Science is the study of the structure, transformation and limits of information. Computer scientists use the notions of algorithm and representation as a means to understand nature and to design artificial systems.
Software Engineering
Software engineering is one of the key applications of computer science today. From handheld wireless devices to supercomputers, software is pervasive. The analysis, design, construction and maintenance of these vast yet highly intricate software systems is one of the greatest practical challenges in the world today.
Creativity
The study of computer science cultivates talents in many different areas. It develops imagination (the ability to create and relate new and unforeseen objects), mathematical skill (the ability to think abstractly and logically), technical virtuosity (mastery of complex computer languages such as C++), and (adaptation to the rigors of large and demanding projects). These analytical and creative talents give our majors a dramatic edge in business leadership. The emphasis on creativity that is central to computer science education is a key attraction.
Salary
Computer science students have the privilege of being on the inside of one of the most profound intellectual and creative developments in human history. If that were not reward enough, there is always the money. The average starting salary for a software engineer with C++ and Java skills ranges from $65,625 to $101,383. [Source: RH Technology 2004 Salary Guide].
Computer science touches nearly every human endeavor, and students majoring in other disciplines are invited to consider a minor or double major with computer science.
Mission Statement
The department will offer an education that is highly regarded by students, colleagues, industry, and other universities for its quality in teaching and in pure and applied research. We recognize that computer science requires a solid foundation in fundamental principles in order to prepare our graduates for continued learning and adaptation to the increasingly rapid changes likely to occur in information technology.
Our department prepares its students for professional employment and graduate education through study and implementation of the fundamental principles of theory, abstraction, and software design, while at the same time presenting the ethical and social issues associated with computer science. We believe that the work environment should enable everyone involved to feel a sense of confidence, power, and self worth that will lead to the joyful pursuit of learning and effective teaching. We believe this environment is best fostered when there is a climate of collegiality and collaboration among the participants. We believe that integrity, honesty and trust are the foundation for success in any enterprise.
We need more computer scientists whose passions are art, language, literature, education, entertainment, psychology, biology, music, history or political science. We need them because computers have an impact on all areas in our world. We need people with passion and vision from every area to drive the development of computer technology as well as applications.
Maria Klawe, "Refreshing the Nerds", Communications of the Association for Computing Machinery (July 2001)
Our department is very active in the 3-D printing technology.
Our department is also active in the high-performance computing area