Computer Science

Information technology forms the vascular system for society's most precious information. Everything from alarm clocks to hospitals to global markets depends on the Internet. Clearly, this technology is enmeshed with the workings of daily life both on a local and global scale, and it must be supported, maintained and improved going forward. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Belhaven University will prepare students to find their calling as software engineering professionals.

What will I study?

• Programming Fundamentals
• Interactive Programming
• Application Design
• Effective Programming Practices
• Data Science
• Network Management
• Operating Systems
• Cyber Security

What is the difference between Computer Science and Computer Information Systems?

They both deal very heavily with technology and its impact on our world, but they do so in very different ways. The easiest way is to put it in terms of the questions that each major tries to address:

Computer Information Systems: How does Technology work?

Computer Information Technology focuses solely on the practical applications of computers and those computing systems that help get work done. It generally involves learning programming only insofar as it is necessary to configure, maintain, and replace those computing systems as well as for tasks like workflow automation. Because of its heavy focus on the “state of the practice”, students are more likely to focus on applied technology areas such as networking, security, database management, and web application development.

Computer Science: Why does Technology work?

Computer Science does touch on the practical applications of technology similarly to CIS, but its primary goal is to train the student in the theoretical framework the undergirds all of computing technology. As a result, a fair amount of mathematics is required: Calculus, Discrete Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Formal Languages and Automata Theory, etc. Also, there is a much heavier emphasis on software engineering and those areas of theory that help programmers understand the performance and stability of complex software systems. Students are expected to learn and understand the ever-changing “state of the art” wrt technology standard.

What are some careers in Computer Science?

• IT/Network Architect
• Data Scientist
• Cyber and Information Security Engineer
• Game Designer/Developer
• Application Developer
• Software Architect
• DevOps Engineer

Why choose a Computer Science degree at Belhaven University?

• New science building and labs with modern computing systems
• Interdisciplinary programs in Independent Game Design with focus on art, computer science and business
• Opportunities for research in Cyber Security and Information Assurance
• Research and work experience in information technology and computer programming with regional businesses
• Small class sizes, personalized instruction