DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

Information

Michael Lee, Ph.D. | Chair
Department of Computer Science

Washington Adventist University
7600 Flower Avenue
Takoma Park, MD 20912-7796
301-891-4102 | cs@wau.edu

Faculty

Michael Lee, Ph.D.

MISSION STATEMENT

To provide excellent programs that prepare technically skilled critical thinkers who create effective technological solutions with integrity and professionalism as they pursue advanced studies and serve in industry.

“Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes.”

- Edsger W. Dijkstra

“Technical skill is mastery of complexity, while creativity is mastery of simplicity.”

- Erik Christopher Zeeman

INTRODUCTION

The courses of study provided by the Computer Science and Information Systems programs offer students a selection that prepares them for success in system administration, scientific research, data processing management and systems analysis.

The programs provide students with the essential theoretical foundation and practical implementation of the science of computing. This foundation includes algorithms and data structures, architecture, artificial intelligence, information retrieval, human-computer interaction, numerical and symbolic computation, operating systems, programming languages and software engineering.

Students enjoy several important advantages: a direct, personal connection to qualified, experienced faculty who are eager to help them master the subject matter, ready access to technological resources from both on and off campus and excellent job opportunities in the immediate vicinity that apply classroom learning.

Students have access to Sun workstations, Pentiums and Power Macs, where they can work on projects at their own rate in and outside of class. Many students have computer-related jobs with local employers that allow them to earn money and learn about computing at the same time. Upon acquiring sufficient background knowledge, every WAU student has the opportunity to work the equivalent of two full-time semesters at a challenging computer-related job through WAU’s Experiential Education Program.

Efforts are made to accommodate students’ diverse learning styles. Women, people from underrepresented groups and nontraditional students are especially urged to enroll in the computing programs.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates of WAU who have completed a major or minor in Computer Science or Information Systems have been in great demand by employers and by graduate programs in computer-related fields. Many are working in the Washington, D.C., area at government installations and business institutions, pursuing careers in programming, systems analysis, systems design, information systems, image processing, software development and artificial intelligence.

Recent employment studies have shown that students in the field of computer science are among the most employable upon graduation. Since many of these careers require further study, the programs offered by the department provide a broad and strong background for advanced study.

OBJECTIVES/CORE COMPETENCIES

Across the curriculum and in extracurricular activities, the Department of Computer Science seeks to instill fundamental knowledge, skills and abilities known as core competencies. Mastery of these core competencies will allow graduates of the program to perform their duties in an outstanding manner in a variety of professional settings.

TECHNICAL

General knowledge of fundamental concepts and skills in computing
Thorough knowledge of major area in computing
Full understanding of computer programming and its applications in various areas
Practice in the use of a wide variety of technologies
Strong mathematical calculation and analysis skills
Broad background in at least one other discipline

ANALYTICAL

Creative problem-solving skills
Understanding of theoretical foundations of computing and mathematics
Ability to make informed decisions using data at hand

COMMUNICATION

Presentation of facts and ideas in written, oral and multimedia form
Effective collection of information through reading, active listening and nonverbal cues

PERSONAL

Initiative and independence
Self-confidence based on knowledge, skills and abilities
Ethical, professional behavior

INTERPERSONAL

Ability to participate and lead in teams
Empathy and respect for diversity
Adaptability to new situations and people

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor of Science majors should have equivalent of two full-time semesters of working experience in an area related to Computer Science or Information Systems to be eligible for graduation. This experience is obtained through participation in the university’s Experiential Education Program (COOP 351 and/or COOP 360 ). Please consult the EXPERIENCIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM for more details.

Students are strongly encouraged to fulfill the first half of the working experience requirement before the beginning of their senior year.

During the semester prior to graduation, Computer Science and Information Systems students must submit a graduation application before the deadline published in the university calendar. These forms are available from the Office of the Registrar and must be signed by the adviser.

Students must maintain a grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.50 in all major courses with no grade below a “C,” a grade of “C” or above in all required cognates and fulfill the requirements for the appropriate degree as outlined below.

Programs

Baccalaureate Degree

Minors