Options under the Computer Science major are intended to provide a concentration in a particular area of study. Currently, the department offers three options in
and the following sections describe these in more detail.
In order to enter one of these fields well prepared a student should pursue a program of study which includes a significant portion dedicated to the specific area. Students taking an option will fulfill the requirements for the regular Computer Science major while taking a prescribed selection of specialized courses. This will give students a fundamental understanding of a technology that supports a rapidly growing part of the world economy.
The option will be noted on official transcripts along with the major, but it is not mandatory for a major to complete one of the options. The options are offered for interested students who wish to enhance their chances for immediate employment in a specific area and to prepare for a flexible long-term career.
The option in Networking and Data Communications under the Computer Science major provides a concentration in the study of electronic networks. The option emphasizes the analysis, design, and management of software that controls electronic networks. Data communication and networking is an area of intense activity, both in research and in applications. Students with this option may expect expanded opportunities in the networking area.
The main features of the Networking Option beyond the C.S. major are:
Students must complete categories I, II, and III of the C.S. major and the following categories IV, V, VI.
IV. Upper Division Computer Science: Concentration (16 units)
One course is required:
V. Networking Concentration (12 units)
Another three courses are required.
VI. Networking and Data Communications Electives (8 units)
Finally, two courses must be chosen from the following list.
The option in Software Engineering under the Computer Science major provides a concentration in the study of software engineering. The option emphasizes code development as an engineering science and is an area of intense activity, both in research and in applications. Students with this option may expect enhanced opportunities in the software engineering area.
The main features of the S.E. Option beyond the C.S. major are:
Students must complete categories I, II, and III of the C.S. major and the following categories IV, V, VI.
IV. Upper Division Computer Science: Concentration (16 units)
Four courses must be chosen from the following list.
V. Software Engineering Concentration (12 units)
Another three courses are required.
VI. Software Engineering Electives (8 units)
Finally, two courses must be chosen from the following list.
The option in Computer Engineering under the Computer Science major provides a concentration in the study of computer engineering. The Computer Science major currently has a distinct software emphasis. While this is appropriate for many students, it does not satisfy the needs of a growing number of students who have an interest in hardware courses.
Students who take this option will gain valuable experience in hardware and related areas, supported by a broad background in general Computer Science. Such an undergraduate preparation will put these students in a favorable position for seeking employment.
The main features of the C.E. Option beyond the C.S. major are:
Students must complete categories I, II, and III of the C.S. major and the following categories IV, V.
IV. Computer Engineering Concentration (24 units)
The following six courses must be taken.
V. Computer Engineering Electvies (12 units)
Three courses must be chosen from this list.