Computer Science, B.A.
Founded in 1980, the WOU Computer Science program blends instruction of theoretical and practical aspects of computing, with an emphasis on the practical. Our graduates demonstrate a solid foundation in core concepts, problem solving and decision-making skills, preparing graduates who will be productive employees as software engineers and lifelong learners. As part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, students select from a wide-variety of minors. The major and minor combination provides unique employment opportunities for our graduates.
credits required for major
Program Details
Learning Outcomes
- Communication and Teamwork: Communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences and work effectively within a team.
- Ethical, Social, and Cultural Awareness: Be aware of and apply knowledge of ethical, social, and cultural issues in the practice of computing.
- Technical Expertise and Computational Problem Solving: Computing and mathematical foundations, programming, data structures and algorithms, and their application in solving problems.
- Software Engineering, Design, and Analysis: Software engineering practice; analyze, design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs.
Courses
- CS 160 Survey of Computer Science Credits: 4
- CS 161 Computer Science I Credits: 4
- CS 162 Computer Science II Credits: 4
- CS 260 Data Structures Credits: 4
- CS 271 Computer Organization Credits: 4
- CS 360 Programming Languages Credits: 4
- CS 361 Algorithms Credits: 4
- CS 364 Information Management Credits: 4
- CS 365 Operating Systems Credits: 4
- CS 366 Software – Languages and Tools Credits: 4
- CS 367 Software Design and Testing Credits: 4
- CS 460 Software Engineering I Credits: 4
- CS 461 Software Engineering II Credits: 4
- CS 462 Software Engineering III Credits: 4
- CS 463 Cybersecurity and Professional Practices Credits: 4
- IS 278 Networks Credits: 4
Mathematics
- MTH 231 Elements of Discrete Mathematics I Credits: 4
- MTH 232 Elements of Discrete Mathematics II Credits: 4
or
- MTH 251 Calculus I Credits: 4
- MTH 252 Calculus II Credits: 4
- MTH 354 Applied Discrete Mathematics Credits: 4
Intellectual and Experiential Breadth Credits: 11-12
Complement your program of study in Computer Science with one (1) of the following:
- Language Study: 11-12 credits (in an additional language or linguistics)
- Writing: 11-12 (choose at least three of the following courses: CS 340, CJ 267, WR 230, WR 300, WR 301, WR 302, WR 400, WR 402, WR 395 )
- Cultural Study: 11-12 (choose at least three of the following courses: ANTH 216, ANTH 370, ANTH 372, SSC 201, SOC 225, SOC 360, SOC 465, HST 203, HST 404, HST 405, PS 436)
- System Solutions: 11-12 (choose at least three of the following courses: CJ 444, CS 340, IS 345, IS 350, IS 355, IS 470, SOC 320, SOC 340)
- International Experience or Applied Studies Credits: 11-12 (consult with you advisor regarding possible programs and credit options, including study abroad, international field schools, practica, internships or independent research)
CHARLES ANDERSON
NTT Instructor/Assistant Professor, Computer Science Division
andersc@wou.edu
TED BEERS
Instructor, Computer Science Division
beerst@wou.edu
NISHANT BHAJARIA
NTT Instructor, Computer Science Division
bhajarian@wou.edu
CHRIS BROOKS
Instructor, Computer Science Division
brooksc@wou.edu
MELISSA EDDINGS
Administrative Program Assistant, Computer Science Division
eddingsm@wou.edu
BREEANN FLESCH
Interim Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, Computer Science Division
fleschb@wou.edu
DON KRAUS
Instructor and Advisor of Computer Science and Information Systems, Computer Science Division
krausd@wou.edu
BECKA MORGAN
Professor & Chair, Computer Science Division
morganb@wou.edu
SCOT MORSE
Professor, Computer Science, Computer Science Division
morses@wou.edu
ALLISON OMLID
NTT Instructor, Computer Science Division
omlida@wou.edu
THADDEUS SHANNON
IS Program Coordinator, Computer Science Division
shannont@wou.edu
Where This Degree Can Take You
A Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science equips you with a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals like algorithms and programming languages, while also offering the flexibility to explore complementary fields like communication or design. This combination can lead to exciting careers in software development, web design, data analysis, or even user experience design. By focusing your coursework and experience on a specific area within computer science, you can leverage your BA to launch a fulfilling career in the tech industry.
Potential Careers
- Software Developer
- Web Developer
- UX/UI Designer
- Database Administrator
- Information Security Analyst
- Systems Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
Potential Employers
- Intel
- Nike
- Oregon Health & Science University
- Portland Public Schools
- Oregon State Government
Consider This Degree If You…
Interested in technology:
A Computer Science degree unlocks the inner workings of technology.
Enjoy problem-solving:
Computer Science is all about figuring things out, breaking down problems into logical steps, and creating solutions through code.
Have an analytical mind:
Computer science requires a good grasp of logic, mathematics, and the ability to think critically.
Alumni Share What They Are Doing
My decision to attend WOU for a degree in computer science was one of the best I have made. The smaller class sizes allowed me to get to know my classmates on a personal level, a few of which I work alongside still. The accessibility to my professors was perfect for my learning style and I felt well prepared for my career thanks to the tremendous amount of support I had from the faculty.
Brittany Miller-Burt
’20 | B.A. In Computer Science
Contact Us
Office Hours – ITC 310B
M – F • 8:00 am – 12:00, 1:00 – 4:30 pm
Questions
Tracy Boyson
503-838-8480
Academic Advising
Dr. Becka Morgan
503-838-8964
Edward B. Wright Center for Computing Science is located on the third floor of the Instructional Technology Center Building. We invite you to schedule a visit to explore our intentionally designed, collaborative, student-centric spaces.
