The MSU Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012 - telephone: 410-347-7700.

Computer Science graduates are able to effectively compete for positions in industry or to continue their studies in graduate school. Computer Science students progress through a series of courses that teach fundamental skills, basic theory, computer architecture, software engineering, and technical applications. Graduates are proficient in designing complex software systems and technical computer applications. MSU Computer Science graduates are sought for their engineering-oriented computer expertise and ability to work in technical environments.

Computer Science is the study of the use of computers in solving problems. It has design, analysis, experimental, and theoretical aspects that must be mastered by every successful practitioner. It requires knowledge from a number of other fields, including mathematics and the sciences. In addition, a Computer Scientist should be articulate and well-rounded in order to apply the tools of the discipline to a wide range of real-world problems in a responsible fashion. Thus, oral and written communication skills, general knowledge of the humanities and social sciences, and an awareness of the social and ethical responsibilities of a computing professional all are acquired. The Computer Science Department presents students with just such opportunities, preparing them for positions at the cutting edge of software development with leading industries, which heavily recruit our students.

The Computer Science Department is located in the high technology Engineering/Physical Sciences Building. Computer Science students at MSU have access to some of the best computing facilities in the Northwest. All students can use the central university systems and PC laboratories. The Computer Science Department has a large laboratory of high performance PCs that are dual booted with the Linux and Windows environments. All of our computer systems are linked through a high-speed network, which is connected to the Internet/World Wide Web through the NSF VBNS network.

Graduate Program

Graduate training is desirable for those wishing to do advanced research and development work or college-level teaching. The department offers graduate work leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Computer Science.

Student Performance and Retention Requirements

Students commencing their academic program in Fall Semester, 2005 or later are required by Board of Regents policy to achieve a C- or better grade in each class used to satisfy Bachelor of Science Computer Science degree requirements.

Curriculum in Computer Science

Students should choose two courses from CS 440, CS 450 and CS 451; three courses from CS 422, CS 425, CS 430, CS 435, CS 436, CS 445, CS 460 and CS 461; and three additional credits from a list of approved CS electives. In addition to the science credits listed above, students must take an additional six science credits. In addition to the MSU core curriculum requirements and to further broaden their educational experience, students must complete at least six credits selected from departments that offer IH, IS, IA or D courses.

A minimum of 120 credits is required for graduation; 42 of these must be in courses numbered 300 and above.

Computer Science Minor (Non-teaching)

A minor in computer science is offered for students who wish to receive formal acknowledgement for taking a core of computer science courses. The minor is designed to strengthen the students' opportunities for industrial employment or for admission to graduate school.

Computer Science Minor (Non-teaching)

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