The computer and information science major provides an in-depth study of computer and information science through a hands-on approach that enables students to explore computer-based solutions to challenging problems. The curriculum focuses on problem-solving skills and techniques that can be applied to many disciplines and covers software and Web engineering, relational databases, programming languages, operating systems, computer networks, and distributed systems. Students are prepared for careers in various computing areas, including applications in programming, databases, software engineering, and networking.

The student who graduates with a Major in Computer & Information Science will be able to

• Solve challenging computer and information science problems using relevant theory, techniques, and knowledge of software and computer systems.



• Produce solutions to modern, practical problems using object-oriented programming languages.



• Prepare clear and precise documentation to support computer and information science applications.



• Explain the environmental, ethical, and social implications of the rapidly changing field of information technology.



• Design robust relational databases supporting applications in a variety of fields.



• Apply evolving technologies to create the next generation of Web applications.

A degree with a major in computer information science requires the successful completion of 120 credits of coursework, including 30 credits for the major (indicated by Δ); 41 credits in general education requirements (GERs); and 49 credits in the minor, elective, and other degree requirements. At least 15 credits in the major must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above).

Coursework for a major in computer and information science includes the following:

• Required core courses (12 credits): CMIS 141/141A, 170, 242, and 310
• Supplemental major courses (18 credits, 6 of which must be 400-level): Chosen from CMIS 102/102A (for students with no prior programming experience) and any upper-level CMIS courses except CMIS 486A and 486B (Note: Students should take CMIS 102/102A before core courses, and may apply it toward the interdisciplinary issues/computing requirement rather than toward the major.)
• Required related course (3 credits), which may be applied anywhere in the degree: MATH 107 or MATH 106

The following course sequence will fulfill all the requirements for the Major in Computer & Information Science. Since some recommended courses fill more than one requirement, substituting courses for those listed may make it necessary to take additional courses to meet degree requirements. Students should consult an advisor whenever taking advantage of other options. Information on alternate courses (where allowable) to fulfill general education requirements (in communications, arts and humanities, behavioral and social sciences, biological and physical sciences, mathematics, and interdisciplinary issues) may be found on the GER page.

First Courses (to be taken within the first 18 credits)
Note: Placement tests required for MATH and WRTG courses.

LIBS 150 Information Literacy and Research Methods (1)

WRTG 101 Introduction to Writing (3)

MATH 107 College Algebra (3)
or MATH 106 or a higher-level math course

Introductory Courses (to be taken within the first 30 credits)

Δ CMIS 102 Introduction to Problem Solving and Algorithm Design (3)
or CMIS 102A Fundamentals of Programming I
satisfies the interdisciplinary issues/computing requirement and prerequisite for courses in the major

Δ IFSM 201 Introduction to Computer-Based Systems (3)
or CMST 303 Advanced Application Software

PHIL 140 Contemporary Moral Issues (3)
or ENGL 240 Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama
or other ARTH, ARTT, HIST, HUMN, MUSC, PHIL, THET, dance, literature, or foreign language course to satisfy the arts and humanities requirement

Δ CMIS 141 Introductory Programming (3)
or CMIS 141A Fundamentals of Programming II

Both BIOL 101 Concepts of Biology (3)
and BIOL 102 Laboratory in Biology (1)
or BIOL 103 Introduction to Biology
or other course(s) to satisfy the biological and physical sciences lecture and laboratory requirement

Δ CMIS 170 Introduction to XML (3)

WRTG 291 Expository and Research Writing (3)
or other course to satisfy the communications/writing requirement

GVPT 170 American Government (3)
or other ANTH, BEHS, ECON, GEOG, GVPT, PSYC, SOCY, or eligible AASP, CCJS, GERO, or WMST course to satisfy the first behavioral and social sciences requirement

Foundation Courses (to be taken within the first 60 credits)

Δ CMIS 242 Intermediate Programming (3)

PSYC 100 Introduction to Psychology (3)
or SOCY 100 Introduction to Sociology
or other course to satisfy the second behavioral and social sciences requirement (discipline must differ from first)

NSCI 100 Introduction to Physical Science (3)
or ASTR 100 Introduction to Astronomy
or other course to satisfy the biological and physical sciences lecture requirement

HIST 142 Western Civilization II (3)
or HIST 157 History of the United States Since 1865
or other ARTH or HIST course to satisfy the arts and humanities requirement in historical perspective (discipline must differ from the other humanities course)

ANTH 344 Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics (3)
or a foreign language course
(recommended elective)

SPCH 100 Foundations of Speech Communication (3)
or WRTG 390 Writing for Managers
or other course to satisfy the communications/writing or speech requirement

Δ CMIS 310 Computer Systems and Architecture (3)

Additional Required Courses (to be taken after introductory and foundation courses)

WRTG 393 Technical Writing (3)
or other course to satisfy the communications/upper-level intensive writing requirement

Δ CMIS 325 UNIX with Shell Programming (3)
or other supplemental major course

Δ CMIS 330 Software Engineering Principles and Techniques (3)
or other supplemental major course

Δ CMIS 320 Relational Databases (3)
or CMIS 370 Data Communications
or other supplemental major course

Δ CMIS 485 Web Database Development (3)
or other supplemental major course

Δ CMIS 415 Advanced UNIX and C (3)
or CMIS 460 Software Design and Development
or other 400-level supplemental major course

Δ CMIS 420 Advanced Relational Databases (3)
or CMIS 435 Computer Networking
or other 400-level supplemental major course

Minor and/or Elective Courses (to be taken in the last 60 credits along with required major courses) (46)

Recommended minor:
Computer studies

Total credits for BS in Computer and Information Science: 120