Computer Science Major

Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science Department

Brent Strunk, Chair
(440) 826-5944, bstrunk@bw.edu

OVERVIEW

Today's technology-driven communication relies on the strategic thinking and creative problem solving of computer science professionals.

BW's computer science major is a rigorous program that combines theoretical study in computer science and mathematics with applied learning in areas such as software development, database systems and systems design.

The program provides a strong foundation for addressing current technologies and adapting to new ones as they emerge.

Hands-on projects allow students to study abstraction, complexity and evolutionary change as recurring themes in computer science. An optional senior research project provides insight into how cutting-edge techniques and technologies are explored.

Career Opportunities

Computer science researcher
Computer programmer
Web developer
Database developer

In and Out of the Classroom

BW computer science students benefit from small class sizes and learning opportunities to work one-on-one or in small groups with their professors.
State-of-the-Art STEM Center

BW's Knowlton Center provides students with innovative learning experiences in engineering, mathematics, computer science and physics that will enable them to explore cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, mathematical modeling and simulation, robotics and optics while connecting with industry leaders.

Careers on the Rise

Employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Combined BS/MBA

An optional five-year BS/MBA program combines a computer science major with a minor in business administration and an MBA degree. This program prepares graduates for positions in computer and information systems management that require a strong technical background, good communication skills and in-depth understanding of the business world.

Major Options

If you are looking for a major that is less theoretical and more applied, consider the software engineering and cybersecurity analyst majors.

CURRICULUM

Offered as a major and a minor, computer science prepares you for immediate employment or to enter graduate programs in computer science, operations research, computers in management or other related fields.

The common core of all the programs in BW's computer science department includes programming and problem solving as well as exposure to the mathematics, computer architecture, paradigms and theory that underlie the computing discipline.

The computer science major prepares students to:

Apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
Analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
Design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs
Function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal
Understand professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
Communicate effectively with a range of audiences
Analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
Recognize the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice
Apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the trade-offs involved in design choices
Apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of carrying complexity

Course Descriptions

Course descriptions, requirements for the major and additional information can be found in the University Catalog.

STUDENT EXPERIENCES

Small class sizes, individual attention and faculty mentoring are at the core of BW's computer science program. Internships, field experiences, independent study projects, undergraduate research and co-curricular activities offer real-world learning.

INTERNSHIPS/FIELD EXPERIENCES

BW's 20-minute proximity to Cleveland puts you within easy access to technology firms, corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. A high demand for computer science skills often enables students to secure internships early in their academic careers, sometimes as soon as the summer following freshman year. Most students have multiple internships prior to graduation.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

Independent study offers students enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom for individualized and advanced study. Students work one-on-one with a faculty member.

RESEARCH

In addition to curriculum-based research opportunities, students can get involved with ongoing research work through the Faculty Student Collaboration program.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Personally and professionally rewarding, student organizations and activities foster skills in leadership and teamwork. Opportunities include:

ACM Student Chapter

This computer club sponsors the annual Baldwin Wallace University High School Programming Competition each April, hosts speakers and organizes several social events, including LAN parties and more.

Programming Team

Student teams compete in several intercollegiate programming contests each year.

Cyber Defense Team

This organization is comprised of students interested in network issues. They meet regularly with a faculty member to discuss topics of interest and work on special projects related to computer networks. Members of this group compete in the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.

Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program

The BW Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program is open to Ohio residents who are entering Baldwin Wallace in the fall as a first-year student or transfer student and are interested in computer science. Students are eligible to apply to the program which also offers the Choose Ohio First scholarship, awarding substantial annual, renewable scholarships.

Student Achievements

Computer science students are regularly recognized for their achievements. The UPE National Computer Science Honorary is a national organization for juniors and seniors who have excelled in their computer studies.

At the annual Honors Ceremony in the spring, recognitions include:

The Anthony and Patricia Lauria Scholarship in Computer Science and Information Systems (in honor of Dr. Anthony Lauria, a professor of mathematics and computer science 1984-2002, and Patricia Kirby Lauria '91).
The Charles and Elsie Little Scholarship (honoring the parents of Dr. Richard Little, professor of mathematics and computer science 1975-2013). The scholarship is designated for computer science majors with a major or minor in mathematics.
Outstanding Computing Student Award (in honor of Kenneth Weiss, Jr. who taught at BW 1972-2010).
Outstanding Senior Awards, which recognize a student in each of the computing majors.
The Sullivan/Schmidt Prize for Computing (in honor of Chris Sullivan, who was an administrator/adjunct faculty member, and his grandparents).

STUDY ABROAD BOOSTS CAREER MARKETABILITY

The opportunity to experience another culture and gain an international perspective is invaluable to your professional development and will add to your career options. Benefits include: