Oct 13, 2024  
University Catalog 2014-2016 
    
University Catalog 2014-2016 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Department of Computer Science


Division of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

NCF Science Addition 261 - (504) 520-7456 - http://www.xula.edu/cpsc

The Computer Science Department prepares students to advance computing as a science and a profession. Computing is important to virtually every other discipline so computing students learn to analyze complex problems and develop good solutions using creative problem-solving skills. Students have opportunities to study mobile application development, business, data mining, graphics, robotics, networking, security, and many other computing areas. At graduation, computer science majors are leaders prepared for graduate school or for stable careers that have excellent salaries.

The Computer Science Department offers the Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, the Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems, the Minor in Computer Science, and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Dual Degree in Computer Engineering. All majors require the same introductory programming sequence then diverge and the computer science majors take more mathematics courses, the computer information systems majors take more business courses, and the dual degree computer engineering majors take more mathematics and physics courses.

At the completion of the undergraduate degree requirements, our graduates are able to apply design techniques and programming practices to solve challenging problems; they have a breadth of knowledge in the theory and practice of computing; they understand the joys and challenges of teamwork; they are able to effectively communicate their knowledge; they have had research opportunities that enhance their knowledge; and they are prepared to be life-long learners in the computing sciences and beyond.

The Department’s Mission

Xavier’s Computer Science Department provides a scientific foundation for learning, discovery, engagement, and innovation. These opportunities support a well-founded understanding of the principles and theories of the computing sciences so students are willing and able to have leadership roles in their careers or as they enter graduate school. The department sustains a liberal education so students are willing to fulfill their responsibilities to be ethical service-oriented professionals with a broad understanding of computing. Faculty and students contribute to computing through active research and professional service as they keep abreast of emerging technologies.

The Department’s Curricula

The Computer Science Department curricula are based on the recommendations of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP), and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The University requires a minimum of 128 hours earned overall which includes the courses required to complete the core curriculum, a minor, and a major.

In addition to all University policies, the Computer Science Department majors can earn no more than 25% of their computer science (CPSC) courses from another institution. No more than 10% of their earned 3000-level or above CPSC courses can be transferred from another institution.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

To earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science, a student must earn a total of 128 semester hours; earn a “C” or better in all Computer Science Department courses accepted for credit; earn a “C” or better in all Mathematics Department courses accepted for credit; and earn a  “C” or better in Philosophy Logic (PHIL 2040 ).

Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems

To earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Information Systems, a student must earn a total of 128 semester hours; earn a “C” or better in all Computer Science Department courses accepted for credit; earn a “C” or better in all Business Division courses accepted for credit; and earn a “C” or better in Philosophy Logic (PHIL 2040 ).

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Dual Degree in Computer Engineering

Xavier also has a Dual Degree Engineering Program. This 3+2 program requires students to complete the core courses and then transfer to an engineering school to complete their engineering degree requirements. Upon completion of the degree requirements, students will earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Xavier and a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering degree from their engineering school.

Concentration in Computer Science

Students choosing a double concentration in Computer Science and another discipline, must earn a total of 12 hours with a grade of “C” or better in CPSC 1710 , CPSC 1720 , CPSC 2120 , and CPSC 2730 . An additional 12 hours is required in the other selected discipline of which specific courses might be required. Students are advised to check with the selected department that houses the discipline for the most up-to-date requirements.

Graduation with Honors Distinction

Computer Science majors with (1) a 3.5 grade point average in all computer science and mathematics courses accepted for credit, and (2) a cumulative 3.3 grade point average overall will earn the graduation distinction of “Honors in Computer Science”.

Computer Information Systems majors with (1) a 3.5 grade point average in all computer science and business courses accepted for credit, and (2) a cumulative 3.3 grade point average overall will earn the graduation distinction of “Honors in Computer Information Systems”.

Programs

    Bachelor of ScienceNon-degree