BS in CSS: Program Goals

Curriculum

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Computing & Software Systems (CSS) emphasizes the theoretical foundation and practical experience necessary for a career in the challenging and rewarding profession of software design, development and maintenance. The curriculum focuses on the latest paradigms, languages and techniques of today's practitioners while building a strong base to support lifelong learning in the field. It also prepares students to pursue graduate studies and provides continuing education for current professionals. Industry partnerships provide opportunities for a wide spectrum of practical experience that complements classroom teaching and research projects.

The curriculum consists of four parts: foundation-strengthening courses; core courses; CSS senior electives; and a set of free electives (non-CSS electives). For students who already have a bachelor's degree, there is an option for earning a second degree in CSS by completing the specific major requirements of the undergraduate program. For a complete academic plan, click here.

Foundation-Strengthening Courses

The CSS program offers courses in programming for students who need to refresh or build skills before enrolling in core courses. These courses do not count toward graduation.

• TCSS 142 [Introduction to Object-Oriented Computer Programming]
• TCSS 143 [Fundamentals and Theory of Object-Oriented Computer Programming]

Core Courses

Computing majors begin their course of study with a group of ten required core courses (50 credits) in principles, analysis, techniques and technology. These courses are directed toward learning and applying the key competencies.

These courses are:

• TCSS 305 [Programming Practicum]
• TCSS 321 [Discrete Structures I]
• TCSS 322 [Discrete Structures II]
• TCSS 325 [Computers, Ethics, & Society]
• TCSS 342 [Data Structures]
• TCSS 343 [Design & Analysis of Algorithms]
• TCSS 360 [Software Development & Quality Assurance]
• TCSS 371 [Machine Organization]
• TCSS 372 [Computer Architecture]
• TCSS 422 [Computer Operating Systems]

CSS Senior Electives

CSS senior electives consists of 25 credits from 400-level CSS courses. Available CSS electives represent several sub-disciplines in Computing & Software Systems, including: Applications Software Development, Distributed Computing Development (e-commerce), Database and Information Engineering, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Communications and Protocol Software Design.

For a list of available courses, please click here. See an advisor for more information about which courses will be available, and when they are scheduled to be offered.

Free Electives (non-CSS electives)

The electives consist of approved courses outside the CSS program, summing to 15 credits. Electives provide students with the opportunity to take interdisciplinary courses to broaden their knowledge base. 10 of the 15 credits must be upper division (300/400 level).

Courses may be taken from any of the following areas and more:

• Art History
• Business
• Education
• Geographic Information Systems
• Environmental Sciences
• Human Rights
• Urban Studies
• Museum Studies
• Asian Studies
• Political Economy
• Labor Studies

Hands-On Learning Through Internships

Students who have completed the CSS core coursework have the option to receive academic credit for degree-related work experience in a paid or unpaid internship.

Internships allow students to apply theoretical and conceptual classroom knowledge to practical work experiences, and to gain broad experience in a professional work environment. Internships also offer employers a chance to involve students in professional design, implementation and research projects. Many employers view internships as a source for qualified, experienced employees.

Core Sequencing

All prerequisites must be completed before advancing to the next academic level. All courses within the major must be completed with a minimum grade of 2.0 (including TCSS 142, and 143). Advanced concentration courses build upon knowledge gained in the core courses. Courses may be repeated once.

In addition to the core and concentration/elective courses, the CSS program offers courses in writing, mathematics and programming for students who need to refresh skills before enrolling in core courses. Credit from these courses is not applied towards the Computing & Software Systems degree requirements.

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