Description of Major
This major provides a broad-based background sufficient for entry to a career in computing. It provides a systems view of computing, emphasizing the interdependence of design, object orientation, and distributed systems and networks, from basic software through systems design. This major develops core competencies in programming, database structure, computer organization, and operating systems. It allows opportunities to study a range of other aspects of computer and information science, such as information security, data communication/ networks, computer and network systems administration, theoretical computer science, and software engineering. Every student can expect to become proficient at programming in C, C++, and Assembly Language. Additionally, students may be exposed to other languages such as Java, C#, Ada, Lisp, Scheme, Perl, and HTML. This major is available on campus or through Distance Learning.
The coursework required for this major includes an embedded collateral minor in mathematics. It is ABET/CAC accredited and is intended to be sufficient for entry to a graduate program in computer science.
Note to prospective transfer students. Prospective transfer students should contact admissions@pc.fsu.edu (FSU Panama City Admissions) with specific questions about admission and mapping requirements.
Internet Supported Distance Learning
The programs available through internet-supported distance learning are degree programs that enable students with an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree from a Florida public institution to earn an FSU bachelor’s degree without moving to Tallahassee. The programs are designed for part time study. Each student receives access to a course Web site and the e-mail addresses of everyone associated with the class. Courses with high enrollment have mentors assigned to assist the instructor in grading assignments. Mentors partner with the instructor when interacting with students through discussion boards and email. Mentors also hold office hours to allow students the opportunity ask questions and get personal feedback on graded assignments. Students interested in Distance Learning should contact the Office of Distance Learning (ODL). For more information contact (877) FLSTATE or visit the web at https://distance.fsu.edu/.
Prerequisite Coursework
BS program in Computer Science
The following must be completed with a grade of C minus or higher.
These courses may be taken as part of General Education requirements or as general electives:
- COP XXXX (3) Introductory Programming in C, C++, JAVA or equivalent language (C++ preferred)
- XXX XXXX (2-4) One science course for science majors (contact department for a list of acceptable courses)
- MAC X311 (4) Calculus I
- MAC X312 (4) Calculus II
One of the following series:
- PHY X048C (4-5) General Physics A with lab and PHY X049C (4-5) General Physics B or with lab, or
- * BSC X010 (3) and BSC X011(3) and CHM X045C (4)
- * Students selecting this option may satisfy the “One science course” requirement by completing BSC X010L and BSC X011L.
Note: State-wide common prerequisites are always under review. For the most current information and for acceptable alternative courses, visit the “Common Prerequisites Manual.” This is available from the “Student Services” section of https://www.flvc.org/.
Admission Requirements
Requirements for graduation in the College of Arts and Sciences include:
The College of Arts and Science requires proficiency in a foreign language through the intermediate (2220 or equivalent) level or sign language through the advanced (2614 or equivalent) level. Foreign language courses are not available via distance learning at FSU.
Admissions/Continuation Requirements to the Major Program of Studies Students should complete the prerequisite coursework with a grade of C minus or higher to be considered for entrance to the major program of study. Students must also have completed a minimum of 52 hours of credit and at least half the required hours in General Education requirements, including required two English and two mathematics, or an A.A degree.
Distance Learning students must complete the A.A. from a Florida public institution, required prerequisites, and a Supplemental Admissions Application prior to admission. Distance Learning students should also complete the oral competency requirement and the College of Arts and Sciences foreign language requirement prior to admissions. In accordance with the University residency rule, degree requirements not available online must be completed prior to the final 30 hours of the degree.
All State Common Program Prerequisites listed as Term 1-4 milestones must be completed with a "C" range (C minus, C, or C+) grade or better. Students earning less than the necessary grade in any of these courses will be required to retake those courses until the standard is met.
Note: retaking a course may delay graduation and incur increased fee liability (i.e., repeat course surcharge and excess credit surcharge).
Upon formal admission into the program, the student must:
- Maintain a 2.5 retention GPA
- complete all courses required for the major with a grade of "C minus" or better;
- not receive more than 3 unsatisfactory grades combined in Programming I (COP3014 or COP3363) and Programming II Object-Oriented Programming (COP3330);
- not accumulate more than 5 unsatisfactory grades (U, F, D minus, D, D+) in courses required for the major, excluding Term 1-4 State Common Prerequisites milestone courses, taken after enrolling entering the program.
Major Program of Studies at FSU: (60 hours)
Computer Science courses: (28-29 hours)
- COP 3363 (3) Introduction to C++ for majors OR both COP 3014 (3) Programming I and COP 3353 (1) Introduction to UNIX
- COP 3330 (3) Object-Oriented Programming
- CDA 3100 (3) Computer Organization I
- CEN 4020 (3) Software Engineering I
- CEN 4090L (1) Software Engineering Capstone
- CIS 3250 (3) Ethics in Computer Science
- COP 4610 (3) Operating Systems & Concurrent Programming
- COP 4530 (3) Data Structures, Algorithms, and Generic Programming
- COP 4521(3) Secure Parallel & Distributed Programming w/ Python
- COT 4420 (3) Theory of Computation
Computer Science electives: (23 hours)
At least twenty-three semester hours of computer science electives (up to two semester hours can be CIS 4900r), at least fifteen of which must be at the 4000 level (excluding CIS 4900r).
One of the 4000-level computer science electives may be replaced with an advanced math elective (which must be a mathematics or statistics course with Calculus II (MAC 2312) or Discrete Mathematics II (MAD 3105) as a prerequisite).
Additional courses required for the BS program in Computer Science: (9 hours)
- MAD 2104 (3) Discrete Mathematics I
- MAD 3105 (3) Discrete Mathematics II
- STA 4442 (3) Introduction to Probability (may substitute STA 4321 or STA 3032)
Minor: The required collateral courses in mathematics, physics, and statistics constitute an acceptable interdisciplinary minor for students in this major.
Computer Skills Competency: 0 hours beyond major. COP 3014 (3) Programming I or COP 3363 (3) Intro to Programming
Oral Communication Competency: 0-3 hours beyond major Students must demonstrate the ability to orally transmit ideas and information clearly. This requirement is met through a college-level approved course, such as SPC 1017 or SPC 2608 (3). Students taking CIS 3250 or any GE Ethics course may take CIS 3250L (1) Ethics & CS lab to satisfy this requirement.
Minimum Program Requirements Summary
Total Hrs. Required 120
General Education 36*
BS Prerequisite Coursework 23*
BS Major Coursework 60
Minor Coursework 0-12 or more
Foreign Language 0-12 (depending on placement)
Computer Skills 0 beyond major
Oral Communication Competency 0-3
Electives to bring total hours to 120
*Note: Some prerequisite coursework may also be applied to General Education requirements in math and science.
Mapping
Mapping is FSU’s academic advising and monitoring system. Academic progress is monitored each Fall and Spring semester to ensure that students are on course to earn their degree in a timely fashion. Transfer students must meet mapping guidelines to be accepted into their majors. You may view the map for this major at https://academic-guide.fsu.edu/.
Remarks
- A minimum of 45 hours at the 3000 level or above, 30 of which must be taken at this University.
- Half of the major course semester hours must be completed in residence at this University.
- The final 30 hours must be completed in residence at this University.
Employment Information
Salary Information: For more information go to: National Association of Colleges and Employers (www.naceweb.org) or the Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov/ooh/home.htm) provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Representative Job Titles Related to this Major: Programmer (Scientific, Business, Systems), Technical Writer, Systems Analyst, Operations-Research analyst, Software Engineer, Webmaster, Teacher of High School, Technical support Representative, Manager, Data Processing System Manager, Network Administrator, Sales Representative for Computer or Software Manufacturers.
Representative Employers: Computer Firms, High Schools, Colleges and Universities, Financial Firms, Private Industry, Governmental Agencies.
