Nov 24, 2024  
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Science, B.S.

 

 

Program Educational Objectives

In our view, exceptional computer scientists and technologists are highly competent problem solvers who thirst for knowledge, collaborate effectively, and seek to make the world a better place. Our students will:

  1. have a strong and comprehensive knowledge of their chosen concentration of study within computer science and science fundamentals;
  2. apply their knowledge with competence;
  3. continue to learn and develop professionally and personally; and
  4. be excellent communicators.

 

Program Student Outcomes

In addition, and consistent with the above, the Merrimack Computer Science graduate, upon graduation will have the following skills:

  1. An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline;
  2. An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution;
  3. An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs;
  4. An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal;
  5. An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities;
  6. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
  7. An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations and society;
  8. Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development; and
  9. An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

 

Major Requirements

Satisfying the requirements for the major in Computer Science includes completing a minimum of 62 credits in the major and cognate courses.  

Required Core Courses (All Concentrations)

Additional Course Requirements by Concentration

Each concentration requires 9 4-credit courses.  For each of the concentrations, students may replace one of the electives with CSC 4815 - Directed Study.

Additional Experiential Learning Requirement

All students are required to register at least one experience that is categorized by the department as experiential learning. Possible ways to fulfill this requirement include external or internal internships, research experiences, or semester projects. Students must seek approval by the department and register their experience with the O’Brien Center.

 

Software Engineering Concentration

This concentration focuses on software development, theory, and algorithms. It prepares students for jobs in software development and design, as well as continued graduate study.

Cryptography and Security Concentration

This concentration focuses on the development and analysis of secure systems, software and networks.  It prepares students for careers as security experts both in the public and private sectors, as well as continued graduate study.

Computational Mathematics Concentration

This concentration prepares students for careers in modeling the behavior of complex systems such as weather patterns, spread of disease, animal behavior, and finance, among others.  It also prepares students for continued graduate study.