School of Computing and Technology - Computer Science and Information Systems

Department Information

Department Chair: Robert Robertson
Electronic Learning Center 305 ~ (435) 865-8560
robertson@suu.edu

Administrative Assistant: Mary A. Gillins
Electronic Learning Center 407 ~ (435) 586-5405
marygillins@suu.edu

Academic Advisor: Sharon Brown
Engineering & Technology Building 118 ~ (435) 865-8702
brownsh@suu.edu

Department Website: http://www.suu.edu/cose/csis/

College Website: http://www.suu.edu/cose/

Advisement Website: http://www.suu.edu/cose/advisement.html

Faculty: Associate Professors: Nathan Barker, Michael Grady, Shalini Kesar, Connie W. Nyman, Nasser Tadayon, Robert Robertson, Dezhi Wu;
Assistant Professors: Cecily Heiner;
Instructor: Laurie Harris (NTT)

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Science (BS)

Computer Science Composite
Information Systems Composite

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

Information Technology

General Technology

General Technology - Information Technology Emphasis (SWATC transfers only)

Minor

Computer Science (Non-Teaching)
Computer Science Emphasis in Teacher Education
Information Systems (Non-Teaching)

Overview of Department

The Department of Computer Science and Information Systems provides accredited (ABET) rigorous programs that enable students to pursue graduate studies and/or careers in computer science and information systems. Graduates are in demand by companies both local and nationwide.

Faculty are dedicated to the success of students in and outside of the classroom, and have expertise in various areas of computer science and information systems. Curriculum is founded on providing students with engaged and experiential education, as well as opportunities to participate in undergraduate research.

Mission

The Department of Computer Science and Information Systems (CSIS) supports the mission of the University and the College of Science and Engineering by providing a high quality graduate and undergraduate education to students through certificate, associate, baccalaureate, and master degree programs.

The mission of the CSIS Department is to provide a learning-centered environment that enables students, faculty, and staff to achieve their goals and to empower our students to compete on a global level for careers in government, industry, secondary education, and acceptance to graduate school.

The Department provides programs in computer science and information systems. The curricula are rich with opportunities for students to develop a sound understanding of fundamentals as well as specialized theories, practices, and ethics that enhance their learning.

The CSIS faculty are committed to providing high-quality education, individual guidance and assistance to students, helping them to develop the attributes of critical thinking, effective communication, lifelong learning, and individual integrity while pursuing their academic goals as well as engaging in scholarly activities to enhance our classes, involve students and, to assist in the economic development of the region through partnerships with industry, inventors, and entrepreneurs.

Department/Program Learning Outcomes

The CS and IS bachelor degrees in the Department are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). As such, the CSIS degrees are engineered to provide graduating students with the following:

An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline;
An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution;
An ability to design, implement and evaluate a computer based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs;
An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal;
An understanding of professional, ethical and social responsibilities;
An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
An ability to analyze the impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society, including ethical, legal, security and global policy issues;
Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, continuing professional development;
An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.
1. (CS Only) An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices;
2. (IS Only) An understanding of processes that support the delivery and management of information systems within a specific application environment.
(CS Only) An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.

Other Information

All courses to be counted in the Computer Science and Information Systems Department majors and minors must be passed with a “C” or better. Computer Science majors must take an approved comprehensive examination in computer science during their senior year, passing with a score at least in the 25th percentile.

Students who need to strengthen their mathematical backgrounds will need to select appropriate courses from MATH 1010 , MATH 1050 , and MATH 1060 before they can begin to take the required mathematical background courses.

Computer Literacy Test Out Option

Students have the option to test out of the Computer Literacy Course (CSIS 1000 - Intro to Computer Applications & the Internet ) as part of their General Education requirements. This test will measure students’ general knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations, and several technology areas (i.e., Firefox Extensions, E-Commerce, Audio Editing, Video Editing, 3D Computer Graphics, Cloud Computing, Linux Mint, Networking, Web Development, Photo Editing, Image Creation Using Gimp, Cyber Crime, Open Office, Blogs, etc.). There is a fee to take the Computer Literacy Test. Students who want to take advantage of this option, should contact the CSIS Department for details.