Computer Science
Division II Chair: S. Hall
Department Chair: S. Heggen
Faculty: J. Boggs, L. Gratton, S. Heggen, J. Jones, M. Nakazawa, J. Pearce, and D. Wilborne
Website: http://www.berea.edu/csc/
Courses: CSC Courses
Course Sequencing Table: Computer and Information Science
Entrance to the Major Information: Progression for CIS B.A.; Progression for CIS B.A. with Computational Mathematics Optional Concentration; Progression for CIS B.A. with Computer Science Optional Concentration; Progression for CIS B.A. with Information Systems Optional Concentration
Major/Minor Requirements:
Computer and Information Science B.A.;
Computer and Information Science with a Computational Mathematics Concentration;
Computer and Information Science with a Concentration in Computer Science;
Computer and Information Science with a Concentration in Information Systems;
Computer Science Minor
Computer and Information Science
Computer scientists at Berea College have fun challenging themselves using technology to creatively addresses societal needs. Students studying computer science at Berea explore abstract concepts and practical skills, applying both in service to the greater community. Students engage in internships, research, and opportunities outside the classroom that deepen their appreciation of the transformational capacity of computation, and the department invites graduates and leaders in the field to share their experiences, further emphasizing the importance of understanding computer science in the context of social good.
Computers and information systems continue to challenge our understanding of how technology can be used wisely. The Computer Science Department places an emphasis on critical technical skills such as web site design, database management, open hardware and software systems, and computational proficiencies that apply to an ever-widening variety of careers. Emphasis is placed on the essential skills of clear communication and critical thinking in hands-on, collaborative environments. Graduates are prepared to lead our technologically-rich world in diverse arenas such as business, non-profits, government, and education.
Students majoring in Computer and Information Science may select among four concentrations: a general concentration, a computer science concentration, a computational mathematics concentration and an information systems concentration, while students majoring in another discipline may select a computer science minor. The major in Computer and Information Science is intended to be appropriate for students interested in acquiring skill with computer applications, computer programming, computer hardware, and software-related tools designed for use in the physical, social, or life sciences.
The general concentration is for most Computer Science students who are seeking a CIS major, and prepares students to have a broad understanding of computer science, including foundational subjects such as data structures and algorithms, systems integration such as networking and databases, and design fundamentals such as software engineering. The optional major concentration in Computational Mathematics is recommended for students interested in computational science, computer vision, graphics, or other mathematically-rich areas of the discipline. The optional Computer Science concentration is recommended for students who are interested in pursuing graduate study in computer science, software engineering, mobile robotics, or other related fields, and students interested in employment that requires deep understanding of computer operating systems and/or algorithms. The optional major concentration in Information Systems is recommended for students who are interested in working with data, such as data analytics, data mining, data warehousing, and management of information systems.
A Computer Science minor is recommended for students who wish to supplement a major in another discipline or to enhance their potential employment opportunities. The curriculum of the Computer Science minor seeks to augment the student’s major and General Education courses by developing technically adept graduates who are prepared for a range of modern careers that require computational skills. Students who complete the major in Computer and Information Science are ineligible for the minor in Computer Science.
In addition to supporting students' achievement of the Aims of General Education, the Computer Science Department seeks to assist students in meeting the following learning goals and associated learning outcomes:
Computer Science Student Learning Goals & Outcomes
Learning Goal 1: Formulating, Analyzing, Decomposing, and Solving Problems Computationally.
Learning Outcome 1.1: Identification of Computational Tasks
Identify computational tasks for which the methods of computer science are well-suited.
Learning Outcome 1.2: Problem Decomposition
Analyze and decompose novel problems into components appropriate to the design of an algorithmic solution.
Learning Goal 2: Understand Theory and Application.
Learning Outcome 2.1: Application of Algorithm and Computational Complexity
Apply theoretical and mathematical foundations of computer science, such as algorithm efficiency and computational complexity.
Learning Outcome 2.2: Relationship between Computer Architecture and Software
Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between computer architectures and software systems or operating systems, the software that manages computer hardware resources and provides common services for computer programs.
Learning Goal 3: Communication and Collaboration Skills
Learning Outcome 3.1: General Audience
Communicate complex technical ideas simply to a non-technical audience.
Learning Outcome 3.2: Technical Writing Skills
Write technical documents that describe the specification, design, and implementation of computational projects.
Learning Outcome 3.3: Technical Proficiency
Demonstrate technical depth in explaining systems to an expert audience.