Computer Science, B.S.

Computer Science B.S.

Contact Information

Dr. Kyle Riley
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
McLaury 308
(605) 394-2471
E-mail: Kyle.Riley@sdsmt.edu

www.sdsmt.edu/MCS

Faculty

Professors Corwin, Logar, McGough and Weiss; Associate Professor Pyeatt; Assistant Professors Karlsson and Qiao; Lecturer Schrader; Emeritus Professors Carda, Opp and Weger.

Computer Science Major

The primary goal of the computer science program is to prepare graduates to enter a dynamic and rapidly changing field as competent computer scientists. Graduates are expected to be capable in all phases of software development including design, development, and testing. Graduates should also have a firm understanding of hardware technologies. These capabilities require the graduate to possess good communication skills, both oral and written, and the ability to work effectively as a team member. Graduates must be able to read and comprehend the literature of the discipline and be sufficiently well-versed in general theory to allow growth within the discipline as it advances. Most of the graduates will pursue careers as software engineers within the computer industry. Some may choose careers as entrepreneurs and others will pursue advanced degrees and careers in research.

The sample Computer Science Checklist in this section lists all required courses for the bachelor’s degree in their proper prerequisite sequence. Students should consult course listings for prerequisites and should consult their advisors at each registration.

A computer science major must complete a minimum of 15 credits in humanities and social science, with at least 6 credit hours in humanities and at least 6 credit hours in social science. Refer to the humanities and social sciences section of this catalog for a list of courses satisfying these requirements. It is also important to refer to the general education core requirements under bachelor of science graduation requirements for further information. Students must complete the general education core requirements within the first 64 credits.

Any computer science major desiring a minor in another field should consult his or her advisor in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science as early in his or her program of study as possible. The Office of the Registrar and Academic Services has a form that must be signed by the student and the department heads of both departments involved.

Computer Science and Mathematics Double Major

Due to the large number of courses common to the computer science major and the mathematics major, many students find it attractive to pursue a double major in these two areas.  Students seeking the double major should consult their advisors for details about this option.