Mar 28, 2024  
2016-2017 CSU East Bay Catalog 
    
2016-2017 CSU East Bay Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Science, B.S.


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Computer Science (B.S.) 180 units


Program Description

Programs in Computer Science at Cal State East Bay are designed to prepare students for employment or for advanced study in computer science. The student’s course of study will provide a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge as well as experience with practical applications in hardware and software.

Computer Science is the study of computation and of methods for addressing, processing, storing, and transmitting information. It encompasses a broad perspective that includes what a computer is, its uses and applications, and theoretical approaches to what can be computed. The core curriculum in Computer Science, involving a blend of theory and practice, offers opportunities for problem solving in many areas and provides experience with a variety of computers, computer languages, and software packages. A typical student’s experience can include scientific programming, language design and implementation, file handling and database design, data communication and networking, artificial intelligence, hardware design, and graphic implementations ranging from interface design to artistic presentations.

A strong mathematical background is important in Computer Science. High school students who are interested in computer science should take as much mathematics as possible, particularly algebra, trigonometry, and precalculus. Community college students who are planning to transfer to Cal State East Bay should take a two-course calculus sequence, linear algebra, discrete structures, a sequence of courses in some programming language (such as C, C++, Java), and a course in computer organization and assembly language.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a B.S. in Computer Science from Cal State East Bay will be able to:

  1. Apply knowledge of mathematics and computational theory to appropriate problems in computer science;
  2. Analyze a problem, and identify and define the resources and requirements needed for its solution;
  3. Design and implement a program to meet stated needs;
  4. Develop and maintain computer-based systems, processes, and platforms
  5. Recognize the mechanisms, components and architecture of computing systems
  6. Employ current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice
  7. Identify professional, ethical, legal, and security issues and responsibilities and the impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
  8. Perform successfully on teams to accomplish a common goal, and communicate effectively in written and oral form.

Career Possibilities

  • Computer Network Support Employee
  • Computer Operations Manager
  • Computer Sales Representative
  • Customer Support Employee
  • Database Applications Program Analyst or Designer
  • Graphics Specialist
  • Programmer or Administrator
  • Programming Team Member, Specializing in Design, Testing, or Documentation
  • Scientific Applications Programmer
  • Software Engineer Systems Analyst
  • Systems Manager or Programmer
  • Technical Writer
  • Teacher/Professor

Features

The University supports Computer Science with a variety of resources. Smart classrooms are equipped with at least one computer and projector. Several instructional classrooms also have student computers. Lab and classroom computers may be equipped with a variety of operating systems. Student dorm rooms are equipped high-speed Internet access.

Each year the department offers a number of scholarships covering a portion of fees for the subsequent year. Applications may be obtained from the department during Winter quarter.

A booklet containing sample schedules, as well as further information about the computer science major, is available in the Mathematics/Computer Science Student Service Center (North Science 337). This information may be obtained electronically athttp://www20.csueastbay.edu/csci/departments/math-cs/.

Preparation

For Advanced Placement course equivalencies, seehttp://www20.csueastbay.edu/ecat/files/docs/advplacexam.pdf.

Major Requirements (B.S.) 84-92 units


Many students pursue a double major in Mathematics and Computer Science, since a number of courses are common to both majors and can be double-counted. Another popular combination is a major in computer science and a minor in mathematics.
 
Please consult an advisor in your major department for clarification and interpretation of your major requirements. The B.S. degree requires a total of 180 units.
 

  • The core major consists of 56 units;
    • the elective units for the Non- Option consists of 28 units;
    • the Computer Engineering Option consists of 36 units;
    • the Networking and Data Communications Option consists of 36 units;
    • the Software Engineering Option consists of 36 units.
  • GE/USHG/UWS consists of 84 units (some courses may double-count units - see your advisor).
  • Free Electives (if any) consist of any remainder units to reach the 180 total units (see your advisor). 

 

Note: All Computer Science majors must complete all courses with a grade of “C” or better.

Prerequisites


Students must have completed the prerequisites listed in the course description for any course they use to satisfy the following requirements.  Note: Prerequisite units may not be included in total program units and therefore should be considered when planning your program roadmap.  Consult with your academic/faculty advisor or department for further information concerning prerequisites and program roadmaps.

Mathematics Core Requirements (20 units)


Note: A student who has recently taken a pre-calculus course in high school should be prepared to begin the calculus sequence. A student with three years of high school mathematics, including two years of algebra and one year of geometry, should be prepared to take MATH 1130, or possibly MATH 1300. Students who are unsure about what mathematics course to take should call the department office for advice.

It should be noted that students may not enroll in any baccalaureate level mathematics or computer science class unless they have met the Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) requirement or are exempt from it. Information about the ELM is available from the Testing Office at (510) 885-3661.

Five courses required: 

Lower Division Core Requirements (16 units)


Note: Although CS 1160 is the required introductory course for Computer Science majors, it may be difficult for students with no experience using computers. Students who do not know how to use a word processor or who have no knowledge of computer files and operating systems should consider taking CS 1020 Introduction to Computers  before taking CS 1160. 

Students who have completed a multi-quarter course in C, C++, Java, or Pascal at another college should consult the Mathematics/Computer Science Department; they may be able to substitute their previous coursework for CS 1160 and possibly CS 2360 and  CS 2370.

Lower division required courses:

Option Requirements


The Computer Science B.S. degree major requires 84 units. In addition to the 56 core units required students must complete an additional 28 units of electives.  

Computer Science also offers three options that can complete the B.S. degree major, each requiring the 56 core units plus an additional 36 units for a total of 92 units:

Computer Science Concentration Electives (28 units)


Students electing the Computer Science B.S. without an option must take an additional 28 units of Computer Science concentration courses.  The selection of all elective Computer Science courses is important in giving the major a coherence, with depth in key areas. These electives must be chosen with the assistance and approval of a faculty advisor. 

Four courses (16 units) required:

Additional Electives (12 units)


Any of the following courses may be used in meeting this requirement. However, at least 4 units (other than units from CS 3898 must be from courses with the CS prefix. The student is responsible for meeting all prerequisites for any of these courses.

  • Any course(s) from CS Concentration group not used in meeting the requirements in that category
  • Any upper division course in CS except those used in meeting requirements in other categories
  • Any graduate course in CS except CS 6000  and CS 6909  
  • Any upper division course in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science or the Department of Statistics that is applicable to the BS degree major in Mathematics
  • Any course from the following list (These courses have prerequisites that are not included among major requirements):

Note: Students contemplating graduate study in Computer Science should consult with a faculty advisor early in their programs. They should be sure to include an adequate number of theory courses in their major and should have an extensive background in Mathematics.

Course Descriptions


Use this link to see all Course Descriptions  available throughout this catalog.

Other Undergraduate Degree Requirements


In addition to major requirements, every student must also complete the University requirements for graduation which are described in the Undergraduate Admission and Degree Information & FAQ  chapter in the front of this catalog. These include the General Education-Breadth requirements; the second composition (ENGL 1002 ) requirement; the cultural groups/women requirement; the performing arts/activities requirement; the U.S. history, U.S. Constitution, and California state and local government requirement; the University Writing Skills Requirement; and the residence, unit, and grade point average requirements.

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