Undergraduate Degree Programs

The Computing Exploration Program provides students with exposure to six undergraduate computing programs within the Golisano College. Students in the Exploration Program take courses in (1) computer science, (2) information security and forensics, and (3) information technology programs, and may elect coursework in (4) software engineering, (5) networking and systems administration, or (6) medical informatics. The goal of the program is to enable students to make an informed decision about the computing program that is the best fit for them.

The computing exploration program has been carefully designed so that students will stay on track for graduation regardless of the program they ultimately select.

For more information: http://www.gccis.rit.edu/exploration

Computer science covers a wide spectrum of areas within the field of computing, ranging from the theoretical to the practical. A computer scien- tist can specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer graphics, computer theory, networking, security, robotics, parallel computation, data mining, computer architecture, or systems software. Programming is necessary, but computer scientists also must be adaptable as well as adept at problem solving and analytical reasoning, able to understand design principles, and fluent in using computers.

The demands of industry and government require college graduates to master both the fundamentals and the applied aspects of their profession. To meet this requirement, two applied educational experiences are woven into the program. Students are required to complete a cooperative educational experience as well as an extensive set of laboratory and small-group experiences.

For more information: http://www.cs.rit.edu/programs/ugrad/description

The BS degree in computing security produces professionals who understand people and processes that impact information security. In addition to possessing state-of-the-art knowledge in the preservation of information assets, students become experts in the identification of computer security vulnerabilities. Students also understand the forensic requirements needed to prove an attack occurred, identify its origin, assess the extent of the damage or loss of information, and design strategies that ensure data can be recovered.

For more information: http://csec.rit.edu/

The BS in game design and development allows students to explore the entertainment technology landscape, as well as related areas, while pursuing a broad-based university education. Simultaneously, students explore the breadth of development processes through involvement in topics such as game design, design process, and animation. The degree is for students who aspire to careers within the professional games industry or a related field such as simulation, edutainment, or visualization. It focuses on producing graduates who understand the technical roots of their medium, the possibilities that creative application of software development affords, and the way in which their industry operates. This degree also provides students with a core computing education that prepares them for graduate study in a number of computing fields and for employment in more general computing professions.

For more information: http://igm.rit.edu/node/132

The role of an IT professional, or information technologist, is diverse and multifaceted. To develop and maintain truly effective systems, information technologists need core competencies in four essential areas: web design/ development and interactive media; database, programming, and applica- tion development; networking and system administration, which includes the design, deployment, and security of computing infrastructure; and technology integration and deployment in user communities, including user- centered design, and ongoing support.

For more information: http://www.ist.rit.edu/degrees/undergraduate/bs-in-it/overview.php

The BS degree in medical informatics is one of only a few programs in the United States that responds to the increasing use of computers in every aspect of health care, biomedical research, and education. Developed by the college’s departments of computer science and information technology in partnership with the College of Science, the program provides students train- ing in the medical sciences, computer science, and information technology, with an emphasis on clinical applications. Students learn to develop computer applications for the solution of clinical problems and to provide computing support to medical practice, medical research, and education.

For more information: http://www.ist.rit.edu/degrees/undergraduate/bs-in-mi/overview.php

Networking, the technology of interconnecting computing devices so information can flow between them, includes the design, deployment, operation, and maintenance of computer networks using developed components. Systems administration includes the system design, installa- tion, configuration, operation, and support of computer system platforms from mobile devices, servers, and large scale systems to the deployment of clouds and the use of virtualization. The BS degree in networking and system administration is designed to teach students to be the designers, implement- ers, operators, and maintainers of computing networks and the computer systems attached to the network. Students will evaluate existing networks and computing systems, suggest improvements, monitor such systems for faults, and plan for growth. They will have the opportunity to work in small- to large-scale companies in any industry segment that interests them.

For more information: http://www.ist.rit.edu/degrees/undergraduate/bs-in-networking/overview.php

As software becomes ever more common in everything from airplanes to appliances, there is an increasing demand for engineering professionals who can develop high-quality, cost-effective software systems. The BS in software engineering combines traditional computer science and engineering with specialized course work in software engineering.

Students learn principles, methods, and techniques for the construction of complex and evolving software systems. The program encompasses technical issues affecting software architecture, design, and implementation as well as process issues that address project management, planning, quality assurance, and product maintenance. Upon graduation, students are prepared for immediate employment and long-term professional growth in software development organizations.

For more information: www.se.rit.edu/curriculum-overview