About Computer Science
LR’s Computer Science program strives for academic excellence by offering rigorous courses designed to challenge the qualified and motivated student and to liberate the mind through an emphasis on quantitative and abstract reasoning, problem solving, critical thinking, and strong communication skills.
A major in Computer Science prepares students for positions in business, industry, education, or graduate programs in Computer Science, Information Systems, or Information Technology. The Computer Science major leads to a Bachelor of Science degree and includes courses that provide a balance between the development of science, mathematics, and business-related applications. Available courses provide the necessary theoretical fundamentals for the study of algorithms, programming, and the design of computer systems, as well as the application of computing to business and management. The wide variety of electives allows the student to tailor the major to theoretical computer science or to information systems.
Learning Outside the Classroom
Computer Science majors have a number of opportunities to gain firsthand experience outside the classroom. Students are encouraged to take advantage of internships and mentor opportunities, allowing them to work with and learn from experienced computer science professionals. There are also opportunities to attend conferences which highlight new developments and opportunities in the growing and exciting field of computer science.
Career Opportunities
Students who complete degrees in Computer Science generally have very bright professional futures-if they are prepared to stay current with a fast moving field. As computing technologies continue to expand and evolve, professional opportunities will arise for individuals with expertise in the development and maintenance of computers and computer systems. Opportunities exist across a surprisingly diverse array of professions: software engineering, programming, and development; systems and database analysis and administration; computer engineering; web development; quality assurance and cybersecurity. Students who can combine technical skills with the ability to communicate and collaborate, and to think critically and assess analytically will possess a distinctive advantage. LR’s rich integration of professional preparation with a deep grounding in the liberal arts provides an excellent model for professional preparation.
Major Requirements
Students may complete a BS degree with a major in Computer Science. In addition, LR offers minors in Applied Computer Science and in Theoretical Computer Science.
NOTE: For students wishing to double-major in Computer Science and Information Technology, required courses for both majors must be satisfied, and at least 15 unique credit hours must be earned in the second major.
Honors
Students majoring in Computer Science or Information Technology who are judged qualified by the faculty may, upon invitation, elect to pursue honors work in Computer Science or Information Technology. To graduate “With Honors is Computer Science or Information Technology” students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum major GPA of 3.2. In addition, they must complete twelve credits of honors work in the relevant program (Computer Science or Information Technology), including an acceptable senior project, complete an original thesis to be submitted for approval of the faculty, and pass an oral defense of the research.
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