Semester Requirements

http://www.cs.rit.edu/

Program overview

The computer science major attracts students who are interested in both the mathematical theory and technical applications of computer science. Most employers look for students who are good computer scientists but also understand the tools and techniques of mathematics, science, and industry, and are able to communicate effectively. The BS program is for the mathematically adept student who wishes to become a computing professional with knowledge of relevant applications areas. The major also attractives students transferring to RIT with an associate degree in computer science with course work in mathematics and science.

Computer science covers a wide spectrum of areas within the field of computing, ranging from the theoretical to the practical. A computer scientist can specialize in areas such as intelligent systems (i.e., artificial intelligence), computer graphics, computer theory, distributed systems, security, robotics, data management, 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.

Students take a core of computer science courses that provide a solid foundation for advanced work. Building on this base, students explore a variety of specializations in their third, fourth, and fifth years. In addition, students will develop a broad appreciation for computer applications and the effects of computers on society via program electives, general education courses, and various free electives, which can be used to complete minors.

Experiential education

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 major. Students are required to complete a cooperative educational experience as well as an extensive set of laboratory and small-group experiences, many as members of a team. These activities are typically held in a setting involving 15 to 20 students each, providing a venue for significant student-faculty interaction.

Accreditation

The BS degree in computer science is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Curriculum

Computer science, BS degree, typical course sequence (semesters), effective fall 2013

Please see New General Education Curriculum–Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) for more information.

(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.

* Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two Wellness courses.
† The First Year Seminar requirement is replaced by an LAS Elective for the 2013-14 academic year.

‡ Students must complete one of the following lab science sequences: (a) University Physics I, II (PHYS-211, 212), (b)  General and Analytical Chemistry I, II and Labs (CHMG-141, 142, 145, 146) or (c) General Biology I, II, and Labs (BIOL 101, 102, 103, 104). Students are free to choose from approved science electives that either extend or complement their lab science selection.

§ Two computer science elective courses must come from the same CS cluster.

Accelerated dual degree option

An accelerated dual degree option is available for outstanding undergraduate students who wish to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in approximately six years.

Computer science, BS/MS degree, typical course sequence (semesters), effective fall 2013

Please see New General Education Curriculum–Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) for more information.

(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.

* Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two Wellness courses.

† The First Year Seminar requirement is replaced by an LAS Elective for the 2013-14 academic year.

‡ Students must complete one of the following lab science sequences: (a) University Physics I, II (PHYS-211, 212), (b) General and Analytical Chemistry I, II and Labs (CHMG-141, 142, 145, 146) or (c) General Biology I, II, and Labs (BIOL 101, 102, 103, 104). Students are free to choose from approved science electives that either extend or complement their lab science selection.

§ Two computer science elective courses must come from the same CS cluster.

** Students who complete the MS Project take one more graduate elective than those who complete the MS Thesis.

†† The BS degree requires 126 semester hours; the MS degree requires 30 semester hours; students use 9 semester hours of computer science graduate electives toward both degrees.

Evening program

The computer science major may be completed on a part-time basis. Degree requirements are identical to those taken by full-time students. Students are encouraged to work with an academic adviser for planning and course selection.