Computer Science, BS
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Program Description
The computer science degree program is applied in nature and is designed to prepare students to begin or advance computing careers in business, industry, government, or education, or to pursue further study in computer science. The curriculum is thorough, current, and oriented toward the technical competencies required of a modern computer professional with emphasis on the development, evaluation, and integration of software systems.
Mission
The mission of the Computer Science program is to educate undergraduate and graduate students in the principles of computer science and to extend the understanding and use of those principles by conducting research and service in support of the people and economy of south Texas, the state of Texas as a whole, and the nation, consistent with the program’s function within a Hispanic-serving institution.
Program Educational Objectives
Based on the mission statements of the university, college, department, and program, we have derived the following objectives for the computer science undergraduate program. The objectives are to graduate students from the baccalaureate program in computer science who:
- Contribute productively in a computer science discipline using state of the art technologies and progress towards their career goals and/or pursue their academic goals in graduate education.
- Communicate effectively and interact or collaborate productively with team members of diverse backgrounds, such as race, religion, culture, ethnicity, and gender.
- Continually improve their knowledge and skills in technical areas and broadening their global perspective of the field of computer science.
- Uphold and enhance their sense of professional ethics and responsibilities towards individuals, organizations, and society.
Student Learning Outcomes
In order to prepare students to attain the program educational objectives, the BS CS degree program has been structured to ensure that all students, by the time of their graduation, will have been enabled to meet the following outcomes:
- Analyze a complex computing problem, and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
Fast Track from Bachelor's Degree to Master's Degree
The university allows the opportunity for high-achieving students to count a select number of graduate credits toward their undergraduate degree and thereby obtain a graduate degree at an accelerated pace. For more information, see Fast Track Computer Science, BS and Computer Science, MS.
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General Requirements
The requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science include a total of 120-122 semester hours. The total is divided among the following groups: University Core Curriculum, Major Curriculum, and Electives.
There are five options for the degree, the Systems Programming Option, the Cyber Security and Infrastructure Option, the Computer Game Programming Option, the Computer Information Systems Option and the Artificial Intelligence Option. Besides the University Core Curriculum, all options also share a common major curriculum that consists of 39 semester hours in computer science and mathematics.
For information about the minor, please see the Computer Science Minor section.
| Requirements | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| University Seminar (when applicable)1 | 0-2 |
| Core Curriculum Program | 42 |
| Major Curriculum for All Options | 39 |
| Courses Specific to Each Option | 39-40 |
| Electives as needed to fulfill university graduation minimum requirements | 0-1 |
| Total Credit Hours | 120-124 |
- 1
Full-time, first time in college students are required to take university seminar.
- USSE 1201 University Seminar (2 sch)
Program Requirements
The specific requirements for each option of the Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science follow.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time, First-year Students | ||
| University seminar | 0-2 | |
| University Seminar | ||
| Core Curriculum Program | ||
| University Core Curriculum 1 | 42 | |
| Computer Science majors must take: | ||
| Calculus I | ||
| Major Curriculum for All Options | ||
| COSC 1435 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I | 4 |
| COSC 1436 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II | 4 |
| COSC 2334 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| COSC 2437 | Data Structures | 4 |
| COSC 3300 | Computing Ethics and Professional Skills | 3 |
| COSC 3336 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3346 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3370 | Software Engineering | 3 |
| COSC 4354 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 |
| ENGL 3310 | Technical and Professional Writing for Computer Science | 3 |
| MATH 2305 | Discrete Mathematics I 2 | 3 |
| Calculus I (included in University Core) 2 | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Applied Probability and Statistics 2 | ||
| Statistical Modeling and Data Analysis 2 | ||
| Courses Specific to Each Option | ||
| Select one of the following Options: | 39-40 | |
| Electives | ||
| Electives as needed to fulfill university graduation minimum requirements | 0-1 | |
| Total Hours | 120-124 | |
- 1
All Computer Science options require one or more courses that also satisfy the University Core curriculum. Before choosing a course to satisfy your University Core, verify that you will not be satisfying that part of the core with a required course.
- 2
These are supporting courses that can be used toward a Mathematics Minor.
Systems Programming Option
This option is for those who intend to pursue careers as systems programmers or pursue advanced study in computer science. The degree program has an emphasis in system software programming and requires a one-year sequence in a physical science with a laboratory component.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Systems Programming Option Required Courses | ||
| COSC 3301 | Cyber Security | 3 |
| COSC 3324 | Object-oriented Programming | 3 |
| COSC 3373 | Software Project Management | 3 |
| COSC 4342 | Computer Networks | 3 |
| COSC 4343 | Algorithms | 3 |
| COSC 4348 | Systems Programming | 3 |
| COSC 4360 | Principles of Programming Languages | 3 |
| MATH 3311 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| 12 hours of approved upper-division Computer Science electives | 12 | |
| MATH 2414 | Calculus II (3 hours included in University Core) | 1 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Compiler Construction | ||
| Models of Computation | ||
| Science sequence (included in University Core) | ||
Select one sequence from the following: | ||
Biology | ||
| Biology I and Biology II | ||
Chemistry | ||
| General Chemistry I and General Chemistry II | ||
Geology | ||
| Physical Geology and Historical Geology | ||
Physics | ||
| University Physics I and University Physics II | ||
| Total Hours | 40 | |
Cyber Security and Infrastructure Option
This option is for those who intend to pursue careers in network administration, system administration, web administration and cyber security experts. The degree program has an emphasis on gaining these skills.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Cyber Security and Infrastructure Option Required Courses | ||
| COSC 2348 | Introduction to Scripting | 3 |
| COSC 2465 | Linux Systems | 4 |
| COSC 2466 | Network Systems | 4 |
| COSC 3351 | Internet Programming | 3 |
| COSC 3372 | Network Security | 3 |
| COSC 3474 | Cyber Defense I | 4 |
| COSC 4310 | Digital Forensics | 3 |
| COSC 4365 | Windows Security | 3 |
| COSC 4367 | Firewall and Intrusion Detection Systems | 3 |
| COSC 4368 | Penetration Testing | 3 |
| 6 hours of approved upper-division Computer Science electives | 6 | |
| Total Hours | 39 | |
Computer Game Programming Option
This option is for those who intend to pursue careers as game programmers. The degree program has an emphasis on the skills necessary for creating and programing computer games.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Game Programming Option Required Courses | ||
| COSC 2325 | Game Design | 3 |
| COSC 3301 | Cyber Security | 3 |
| COSC 3324 | Object-oriented Programming | 3 |
| COSC 3325 | Game Programming | 3 |
| COSC 3385 | Numerical Methods | 3 |
| COSC 4325 | Advanced Game Programming | 3 |
| COSC 4328 | Computer Graphics | 3 |
| COSC 4330 | Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | 3 |
| COSC 4342 | Computer Networks | 3 |
| COSC 4343 | Algorithms | 3 |
| MATH 2414 | Calculus II (3 hours included in University Core) | 1 |
| MATH 3311 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| University Physics I (included in University Core) | ||
| University Physics II (included in University Core) | ||
| 3 hours of approved upper-division Computer Science electives | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Compiler Construction | ||
| Principles of Programming Languages | ||
| Models of Computation | ||
| Total Hours | 40 | |
Computer Information Systems Option
The Computer Information Systems option is intended for those who want to develop and maintain information systems. In this option, the student learns to develop software systems and function as a computer professional. The student should choose electives to link the application-independent foundations and processes of computing and information systems to the needs of a particular application area. The student will gain knowledge of the particular application area by choosing a minor in an academic discipline highly related to the application area.
The minor should be appropriate as an application area for computer information systems and must consist of at least 18 semester hours. The coursework that satisfies the minor is determined by the faculty in the minor subject.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Information Systems Option Required Courses | ||
| COSC 2470 | COBOL Programming | 4 |
| COSC 3324 | Object-oriented Programming | 3 |
| COSC 4342 | Computer Networks | 3 |
| 12 hours of approved upper-division Computer Science electives | 12 | |
| 18 hours of Minor Courses | 18 | |
| Total Hours | 40 | |
Artificial Intelligence Option
This option is intend for those who want to build a career in the rapidly growing field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The program provides a strong foundation in core AI principles, including machine learning, deep learning, and data-driven decision-making.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence Option Required Courses | ||
| COSC 3301 | Cyber Security | 3 |
| MATH 3311 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| COSC 3326 | Introduction to Image Processing and Computer Vision | 3 |
| COSC 3330 | Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | 3 |
| COSC 3345 | Introduction to Machine Learning | 3 |
| COSC 4335 | Foundation of Language Models and Processing | 3 |
| COSC 4343 | Algorithms | 3 |
| COSC 4346 | Introduction to Deep Learning | 3 |
| COSC 4375 | Knowledge Representation and Retrieval | 3 |
| 12 hours of approved upper-division Computer Science electives | 12 | |
| Total Hours | 39 | |
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Course Sequencing
Systems Programming
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| USSE 1201 | University Seminar | 2 |
| ENGL 1301 | Writing and Rhetoric I | 3 |
| COSC 1435 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I | 4 |
| MATH 2413 | Calculus I | 4 |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 1302 or COMM 1311 | Writing and Rhetoric II or Foundation of Communication | 3 |
| COSC 1436 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II | 4 |
| COSC 3301 | Cyber Security | 3 |
| MATH 2305 | Discrete Mathematics I | 3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 2334 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| COSC 2437 | Data Structures | 4 |
| MATH 2414 | Calculus II | 4 |
| POLS 2305 | U.S. Government and Politics | 3 |
| Creative Arts Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 3310 | Technical and Professional Writing for Computer Science | 3 |
| COSC 3324 | Object-oriented Programming | 3 |
| POLS 2306 | State and Local Government | 3 |
| COSC 4360 | Principles of Programming Languages | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 3342 or MATH 3345 | Applied Probability and Statistics or Statistical Modeling and Data Analysis | 3 |
| COSC 3336 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3370 | Software Engineering | 3 |
| MATH 3311 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| Science Sequence | 4 | |
| COSC 3300 | Computing Ethics and Professional Skills | 3 |
| Hours | 19 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 3346 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3373 | Software Project Management | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Science Sequence | 4 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 4342 | Computer Networks | 3 |
| COSC 4343 | Algorithms | 3 |
| COSC 4353 or COSC 4370 | Compiler Construction or Models of Computation | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 4354 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 |
| COSC 4348 | Systems Programming | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 12 | |
| Total Hours | 123 | |
Cyber Security and Infrastructure
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| USSE 1201 | University Seminar | 2 |
| ENGL 1301 | Writing and Rhetoric I | 3 |
| COSC 1435 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I | 4 |
| MATH 2413 | Calculus I | 4 |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 1302 or COMM 1311 | Writing and Rhetoric II or Foundation of Communication | 3 |
| COSC 1436 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II | 4 |
| COSC 2348 | Introduction to Scripting | 3 |
| MATH 2305 | Discrete Mathematics I | 3 |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 2334 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| COSC 2437 | Data Structures | 4 |
| COSC 2465 | Linux Systems | 4 |
| POLS 2305 | U.S. Government and Politics | 3 |
| Creative Arts Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 2466 | Network Systems | 4 |
| COSC 3336 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3 |
| POLS 2306 | State and Local Government | 3 |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Component Area Option Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 3351 | Internet Programming | 3 |
| ENGL 3310 | Technical and Professional Writing for Computer Science | 3 |
| COSC 4365 | Windows Security | 3 |
| MATH 3342 or MATH 3345 | Applied Probability and Statistics or Statistical Modeling and Data Analysis | 3 |
| COSC 3346 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 3370 | Software Engineering | 3 |
| COSC 3300 | Computing Ethics and Professional Skills | 3 |
| COSC 3372 | Network Security | 3 |
| COSC 4310 | Digital Forensics | 3 |
| Component Area Option Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Hours | 18 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 4367 | Firewall and Intrusion Detection Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3474 | Cyber Defense I | 4 |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Science Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 4354 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 |
| COSC 4368 | Penetration Testing | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Science Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Total Hours | 123 | |
Computer Game Programming
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| USSE 1201 | University Seminar | 2 |
| ENGL 1301 | Writing and Rhetoric I | 3 |
| COSC 1435 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I | 4 |
| MATH 2413 | Calculus I | 4 |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 1302 or COMM 1311 | Writing and Rhetoric II or Foundation of Communication | 3 |
| COSC 1436 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II | 4 |
| COSC 2325 | Game Design | 3 |
| COSC 3301 | Cyber Security | 3 |
| MATH 2305 | Discrete Mathematics I | 3 |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 2334 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| COSC 2437 | Data Structures | 4 |
| PHYS 2425 | University Physics I | 4 |
| MATH 2414 | Calculus II | 4 |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| PHYS 2426 | University Physics II | 4 |
| MATH 3311 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| ENGL 3310 | Technical and Professional Writing for Computer Science | 3 |
| COSC 3325 | Game Programming | 3 |
| COSC 3336 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3 |
| Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 19 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 3324 | Object-oriented Programming | 3 |
| COSC 3300 | Computing Ethics and Professional Skills | 3 |
| COSC 3346 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3385 | Numerical Methods | 3 |
| COSC 4328 | Computer Graphics | 3 |
| POLS 2305 | U.S. Government and Politics | 3 |
| Hours | 18 | |
| Spring | ||
| MATH 3342 or MATH 3345 | Applied Probability and Statistics or Statistical Modeling and Data Analysis | 3 |
| COSC 3370 | Software Engineering | 3 |
| COSC 4342 | Computer Networks | 3 |
| COSC 4325 | Advanced Game Programming | 3 |
| Hours | 12 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 4330 | Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | 3 |
| COSC 4343 | Algorithms | 3 |
| Theory Group | 3 | |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 4354 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 |
| POLS 2306 | State and Local Government | 3 |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Creative Arts Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 12 | |
| Total Hours | 123 | |
Computer Information Systems
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| USSE 1201 | University Seminar | 2 |
| ENGL 1301 | Writing and Rhetoric I | 3 |
| COSC 1435 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I | 4 |
| MATH 2413 | Calculus I | 4 |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 1302 or COMM 1311 | Writing and Rhetoric II or Foundation of Communication | 3 |
| COSC 1436 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II | 4 |
| MATH 2305 | Discrete Mathematics I | 3 |
| Creative Arts Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 13 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 2334 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| COSC 2437 | Data Structures | 4 |
| COSC 2470 | COBOL Programming | 4 |
| Minor Course | 3 | |
| POLS 2305 | U.S. Government and Politics | 3 |
| ENGL 3310 | Technical and Professional Writing for Computer Science | 3 |
| Hours | 20 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 3336 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Minor Course | 3 | |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| POLS 2306 | State and Local Government | 3 |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 3342 or MATH 3345 | Applied Probability and Statistics or Statistical Modeling and Data Analysis | 3 |
| COSC 3300 | Computing Ethics and Professional Skills | 3 |
| COSC 3346 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| COSC 3324 | Object-oriented Programming | 3 |
| Minor Course | 3 | |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 18 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 3370 | Software Engineering | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Science Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Component Area Option Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 12 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 4342 | Computer Networks | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Minor Course | 3 | |
| Minor Course | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Science Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 4354 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Minor Course | 3 | |
| Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Component Area Option Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Total Hours | 124 | |
Artificial Intelligence
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| USSE 1201 | University Seminar | 2 |
| ENGL 1301 | Writing and Rhetoric I | 3 |
| COSC 1435 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I | 4 |
| MATH 2413 | Calculus I | 4 |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 1302 or COMM 1311 | Writing and Rhetoric II or Foundation of Communication | 3 |
| COSC 1436 | Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II | 4 |
| COSC 3301 | Cyber Security | 3 |
| MATH 2305 | Discrete Mathematics I | 3 |
| Life and Physical Science Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 2334 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| COSC 2437 | Data Structures | 4 |
| MATH 3311 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| POLS 2305 | U.S. Government and Politics | 3 |
| Creative Arts Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 3310 | Technical and Professional Writing for Computer Science | 3 |
| COSC 3336 | Introduction to Database Systems | 3 |
| MATH 3342 | Applied Probability and Statistics | 3 |
| POLS 2306 | State and Local Government | 3 |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 3346 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| COSC 4343 | Algorithms | 3 |
| COSC 3326 | Introduction to Image Processing and Computer Vision | 3 |
| COSC 3330 | Introduction to Artificial Intelligence | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 3370 | Software Engineering | 3 |
| COSC 3345 | Introduction to Machine Learning | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| American History Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Life and Physical Science Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COSC 3300 | Computing Ethics and Professional Skills (Foundation of Language Models and Processing) | 3 |
| COSC 4335 | Foundation of Language Models and Processing | 3 |
| COSC 4346 | Introduction to Deep Learning | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Component Area Option Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| COSC 4354 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 |
| COSC 4375 | Knowledge Representation and Retrieval | 3 |
| Approved Upper-Division COSC Course | 3 | |
| Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Component Area Option Core Requirement | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Total Hours | 123 | |
Courses
COSC 1315 Computer Literacy
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
A balanced introduction to the use and application of computers in modern society involving both descriptive information and hands-on laboratory participation. Includes a discussion of the general principles of operation of a computer and a brief history of the development of computing. The use of a personal computer operating system, common application software, and simple computer programming concepts are introduced. Satisfies university computer literacy requirement.
TCCNS: COSC 1301
COSC 1320 C Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Introduces the fundamental concepts of structured programming in the C language. Topics include data types; control structures; functions, structures, arrays, pointers, pointer arithmetic, unions, and files; the mechanics of running, testing, and debugging programs; introduction to programming; and introduction to the historical and social context of computing.
Prerequisite: (MATH 1314).
COSC 1330 Programming for Scientists, Engineers, and Mathematicians
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Introduction to computer programming for solving discipline specific problems using computers. Emphasis on the fundamentals of structured design, development, testing, implementation, and documentation. Includes coverage of language syntax, data and file structures, input/output devices, and disks/files.
TCCNS: ENGR 2304
COSC 1435 Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course introduces the fundamental concepts of problem solving and algorithms. A brief introduction to computers and the programming life cycle is covered. The C++ programming language is used to develop basic computer programs demonstrating data types, fundamental control structures, functions, and arrays. MATH 1314 or placement beyond MATH 1314. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.
Prerequisite: MATH 1314.
TCCNS: COSC 1436
COSC 1436 Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers II
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course is a continuation of COSC 1435. An introduction to abstract data types and object-oriented programming is covered. Topics include basic searching and sorting algorithms, dynamic allocation, linked lists, inheritance, polymorphism, and recursion.
Prerequisite: COSC 1435.
TCCNS: COSC 1437
COSC 2325 Game Design
3 Semester Credit Hours (2 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course will teach students the techniques for computer game design and how to work as part of a game development team from initial conception through release, including the game design process, game concepts, how and why we play games, character development, storytelling, user experience, game play, and core mechanics of games.
COSC 2334 Computer Architecture
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
A concentrated study of internal computer concepts. Computer organization, machine and assembly language are emphasized.
COSC 2348 Introduction to Scripting
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces students to Windows and Unix/Linux shell scripting. The course covers basic scripting concepts including decision statements, control statements, functions and files manipulation. Advanced scripting tools such as grep, awk and sed are covered in this course.
Prerequisite: (COSC 1435).
COSC 2390 Selected Topics I
1,3 Semester Credit Hours (1,3 Lecture Hours)
Variable content. May be repeated for credit depending on topic. Offered on sufficient demand. Does not count toward total hours required for BS in Computer Science.
COSC 2391 Selected Topics II
1-3 Semester Credit Hours (1-3 Lecture Hours)
This is a selected topics course with no lab component. Variable content. May be repeated for credit depending on topic. Offered on sufficient demand. Does not count toward total hours required for BS in Computer Science.
COSC 2437 Data Structures
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course provides a thorough study of standard structures used in the storing and retrieving of data and the processes by which these structures are created and manipulated. Topics include: object oriented design, linked lists, classes, trees, graphs, hashing, stacks, queues, sorting, searching, and recursion. A grade of C or better is required in the course to receive credit towards the Computer Science BS program.
TCCNS: COSC 2436
COSC 2465 Linux Systems
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course focuses on providing students with essential knowledge and skills to implement, administer, and troubleshoot servers in a networked environment. Operating system concepts, such as installing a standalone system, file systems authentication, and user support services are explored. Topics will include security issues, user and group administration, active directory services, DHCP, DNS, SSH, backup and restoration strategies and techniques, integrated mass storage technologies and alternative client technologies.
Prerequisite: COSC 2348.
COSC 2466 Network Systems
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course focuses on the standards and technologies used to establish inter-network structures that will support a TCP/IP data stream for higher-level services to operate over. This course introduces local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN). Topics include the TCP/IP and open system interconnection (OSI) models, cabling, switches, routers, protocols, subnetting, and networking hardware and software. Initial switch and router configuration will be examined and evaluated.
Prerequisite: COSC 2465.
COSC 2470 COBOL Programming
4 Semester Credit Hours (4 Lecture Hours)
A concentrated study of the COBOL language as applied to fundamental business computing problems and other data management applications.
Prerequisite: COSC 1435.
COSC 3100 Skills for Computing Professionals I
1 Semester Credit Hour (2 Lab Hours)
This course focuses on beginning to develop professional skills that computer scientists will need to be successful in their careers and lives. Communication skills will include writing and giving oral presentations. Ethical issues will be explored. This is a class for computing professionals. As such, professional decorum will be required at all times.
COSC 3300 Computing Ethics and Professional Skills
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces social and ethical issues related to computer science, and focuses on technical writing, workplace scenarios and professional skills that computer scientists will need to be successful in their careers and lives. This is a class for computing professionals.
Prerequisite: (ENGL 3310).
COSC 3301 Cyber Security
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces students to cyber security. A broad range of cyber security issues will be covered, including social engineering attacks, secure coding, computer security, Internet of Things (IoT) security, mobile security, data security, network security, physical security and forensics. This course will cover the concepts of prevention, detection, and response to cyber security threats.
Prerequisite: COSC 1435.
COSC 3324 Object-oriented Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
A study of concepts, terminology, and methodologies used in object-oriented systems, languages, and applications. Students will design and implement software systems using object-oriented analysis and design techniques.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 3325 Game Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course will introduce the student to techniques and tools used for all aspects of programming games. Topics will include game graphics, game physics, game AI, and sound. The course will contain lectures and hands-on labs. Students will work independently and in teams.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 3335 Programming for Unmanned Aircraft Systems
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces software development for Unmanned Systems (US). Students will be introduced to a variety of relevant topics including the different US platforms, design and implementation of algorithms for US, user interface for US, and state-of-the-art US applications, challenges & solutions.
COSC 3336 Introduction to Database Systems
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
A study of contemporary database management system concepts, terminology, and methodology for use and implementation. Commercially available systems are discussed and used with emphasis upon the relational model.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 3346 Operating Systems
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Introduction to operating systems concepts, principles, and design. Topics include: processes and threads, CPU scheduling, mutual exclusion and synchronization, deadlock, memory management, file systems, security and protection, networking, and distributed systems. Selected existing operating systems are discussed, compared, and contrasted.
COSC 3351 Internet Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Study of prominent web technologies with a focus on creating interactive web applications. Both client-side and server-side programming will be covered. Students will design and implement a web based project using technologies covered in class.
COSC 3352 Mobile Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces software development for mobile platforms. Students will learn skills for creating and deploying mobile applications. Includes software engineering topics as related to mobile programming, primarily in how software design differs on mobile platforms.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 3353 Survey of Programming Languages
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
A study of selected programming languages for students familiar with programming. Students will write programs in a variety of languages.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 3360 Human-computer Interaction
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces concepts and techniques for Human Computer Interaction. Particular emphasis will be placed on vision, audio, and language solutions for use in human-computer interactive systems. In addition, the students will learn how to apply the methods to solve simple HCI problems.
Prerequisite: COSC 1436.
COSC 3370 Software Engineering
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces students to software engineering principles for the development and maintenance of high quality large software systems. Topics include: software life cycle, delivering on time and within budget, and the development and application of processes and tools for managing the complexities inherent in creating these systems.
COSC 3371 Computer Information Systems Economics
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
An introduction to concepts in information technology and software engineering with a focus on economics and managerial issues. Topics include cost benefit analysis, software and effort estimation, feasibility analysis, information systems proposals, software team coordination, and project management. May not be used as a CS elective for CS majors.
COSC 3372 Network Security
3 Semester Credit Hours (2 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of computer and network security and security laws and ethics, topics include, identification of vulnerabilities, forms of attack, appropriate countermeasures, and the detection and defense of the same. Techniques for the securing of hardware, software and data, including physical security are covered.
Prerequisite: COSC 2466.
COSC 3373 Software Project Management
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces students to the principles for software project management for small and medium-size projects. Many aspects of software project management, including management process, scope definition, time and cost estimation, quality control, human resources, communication, risks and project procurement management will be discussed. A number of applications and tools will be used to implement a class project.
Prerequisite: (COSC 3370).
COSC 3385 Numerical Methods
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces concepts for solving problems numerically using computers. Students will learn about number systems, errors of finite representation, and iteration. A survey of basic numerical methods including: solutions to nonlinear equations, solutions to linear systems, approximation, interpolation, zeros of functions, numerical differentiation and integration, and Monte-Carlo methods.
COSC 3400 Skills for Computing Professionals
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course focuses on the professional skills that computer scientists will need to be successful in their careers. There are two key areas of study, communication skills needed by computer scientists and their ethical responsibilities. Communication skills will include: technical writing from a computer science perspective, presentation skills, client interviewing, and reading technical articles. Ethical issues will be explored from a computer science perspective.
Prerequisite: ENGL 1302.
COSC 3474 Cyber Defense I
4 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours, 2 Lab Hours)
This course covers cryptographic tools, cryptographic algorithms, types of malicious software, forms of attacks and software security. Strengths and weaknesses of cryptographic systems are covered as well as the types of attacks on cryptographic systems. Malicious activity signatures, analysis as well as detection will be covered. This course will also cover secure coding principles and types of software issues.
Prerequisite: COSC 3372.
COSC 4100 Skills for Computing Professionals II
1 Semester Credit Hour (2 Lab Hours)
This course focuses on technical writing, workplace scenarios and professional skills that computer scientists will need to be successful in their careers and lives. This is a class for computing professionals. As such, professional decorum will be required at all times.
COSC 4310 Digital Forensics
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course will introduce undergraduate students to the fundamentals of computer forensics and cyber-crime scene analysis. The various laws and regulations dealing with computer forensic analysis will be discussed. Students will be introduced to the emerging international standards for computer forensic analysis, as well as a formal methodology for conducting computer forensic investigations. Several Forensics tools such as Encase and FTK will be used to conduct digital forensics investigations.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 4324 Image Processing
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces concepts and techniques for image processing. The objective of this course is to introduce the fundamental techniques and algorithms used for processing and extracting useful information from digital images. The students will learn how to apply the image processing methods to solve real-world problems.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 4325 Advanced Game Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course will introduce advanced concepts for game programming to the student. Topics will include game physics, game AI, advanced shaders, 3D techniques, multiplayer techniques, and networking. The course will contain lectures and hands-on labs.
Prerequisite: COSC 3325.
COSC 4328 Computer Graphics
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Basic principles and techniques for computer graphics on modern graphics hardware. Students will gain experience in interactive computer graphics using the OpenGL API. Topics include: 2D viewing, 3D viewing, perspective, lighting, and geometry.
COSC 4330 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Foundations, directions, and applications of artificial intelligence including search algorithms, knowledge acquisition, representation, and processing. Students will gain practical experience by implementing many of the basic algorithms.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 4342 Computer Networks
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Computer-based communication systems. Topics include: advanced computer network architectures, protocols, and programming.
COSC 4343 Algorithms
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Advanced programming techniques for algorithmic and heuristic solutions of problems. Topics include: analysis and design of algorithms, testing of algorithms, optimum and exhaustive solutions, and recursion.
COSC 4345 Introduction to Machine Learning
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course gives a broad introduction to machine learning with more emphasis on intelligent system design. Topics to be covered include linear and logistic regression, neural networks, clustering, classification, decision tree, evolutionary computation, feature selection, and reinforcement learning. The courses will explore various applications of machine learning to computer science, process modeling, pattern and speech recognition, data mining, and bioinformatics.
COSC 4348 Systems Programming
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
The design and implementation of system software such as device drivers, application support libraries, and interprocess communication. Students will study and use systems programming tools.
COSC 4353 Compiler Construction
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course introduces the basic concepts and mechanisms traditionally employed in language translators, with emphasis on compilers. Topics include: strategies for syntactic and semantic analysis, techniques of code optimization and approaches toward code generation.
Prerequisite: COSC 4360.
COSC 4354 Senior Capstone Project
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
Teamwork and formal methods of systems analysis and design are emphasized. Students will complete a large team project. Fall, Spring.
COSC 4360 Principles of Programming Languages
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
The study of programming language design including syntax, semantics, behavior, and implementation issues in imperative, functional, logic, and object-oriented languages. Other topics include type theory, concurrency, data dependency, and nondeterminism.
Prerequisite: COSC 2437.
COSC 4365 Windows Security
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course focuses on advanced system administration topics. An in depth understanding of various concepts such as operating systems, servers, file systems authentication, and user support services are explored. Topics include security issues, user and group administration, server and work-station integration, central repositories for updates, Active directory, DMZ, web servers, email servers, electronic system update and maintenance, backup and restoration strategies and techniques, integrated mass storage technologies and alternative client technologies.
COSC 4367 Firewall and Intrusion Detection Systems
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This is an applied course which focuses on the standards and technologies used to establish inter-network structures that will support a TCP/IP data stream for higher-level services to operate over. This course introduces firewalls, Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) technology. Topics include Windows, Linux, Check Point and Cisco firewalls, TCP/IP and open system interconnection (OSI) models, attack traffic analysis, and network based and host based hardware and software. Device configuration will be examined and evaluated with appropriate exercises.
COSC 4368 Penetration Testing
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course focuses to increase the students understanding of how to recognize a potential cyber attacker and identify vulnerabilities through the use of vulnerability analysis tools. Students will audit, monitor, and revise system security to ensure appropriate levels of protection are achieved. Incident response and handling, security log analysis, attacker identification, system recovery and postmortem procedures will be addressed.
Prerequisite: COSC 3474.
COSC 4369 Incident Response
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
This course focuses on the standards and technologies used to establish organization structures that will support information technology incident response, business continuity and disaster recovery efforts. This course introduces incident response, business continuity and disaster recovery planning concepts as well as tools and techniques. Topics include the development and implementation of incident response, business continuity and disaster recovery plans, attack traffic analysis, and network-based and host-based hardware and software. Concepts will be examined and evaluated with appropriate exercises.
Prerequisite: COSC 3372.
COSC 4370 Models of Computation
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)
A study of formal languages, grammars, and associated abstract machine models. Topics include regular and context-free languages and grammars, finite state automata, Turing machines, and the Chomsky hierarchy.
Prerequisite: COSC 4343.
COSC 4396 Directed Independent Study
3 Semester Credit Hours
See College description. Offered on sufficient demand.
COSC 4590 Selected Topics
1-5 Semester Credit Hours (1-5 Lecture Hours)
Variable content. May be repeated for credit depending on topic. Offered on sufficient demand.
Prerequisite: COSC 4365.
COSC 4690 Contracted Field Experience in Computer Science
1-6 Semester Credit Hours (6 Lecture Hours)
Individual contract agreement involving student, faculty, and cooperating agency to gain practical experience in off-campus setting.