愛荷華大學

Learning Outcomes

Students understand the mathematical, logical, statistical, and theoretical foundations of computing.
Students can analyze and compare the relative merits of alternative software designs and develop high-quality software systems.
Students understand the fundamental principles of computer organization, system software, networks, and security.
Students can apply computer science principles to a variety of problems, such as databases, data mining, graphics, and various fields of artificial intelligence (AI).
Students understand social, professional, and ethical issues related to computing.

Overview

The major in computer science provides students with the necessary training for employment in careers such as software development and information management. It provides good preparation for graduate study in a variety of disciplines.

Students may declare a major in computer science when they are admitted to the University or afterward. All students begin as Bachelor of Arts majors but may switch to the Bachelor of Science programs at any time.

Undergraduates majoring in computer science develop competence in programming principles and methodologies, problem-solving techniques, mathematics, and computer systems. Computer science training is critical for many careers in science, engineering, business, and health care.

The Bachelor of Science with a major in computer science requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including at least 63 s.h. of work for the major. Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. A cumulative g.p.a. of at least 2.00 is required for graduation. Students also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core.

The Bachelor of Science program is more rigorous than that of the Bachelor of Arts program; it is designed to provide in-depth training for students who would like to acquire strength in math and science in order to enhance their skills and job prospects. It also is appropriate for those who plan to pursue graduate work in computer science, although it is not required for graduate study at most universities.

Course work for the major includes computer science courses as well as courses in mathematics, statistics, and other supporting disciplines. Work for the major may not be taken pass/nonpass.

Computer science graduates work primarily in two market sectors. One includes the software and computer industry, from small start-ups to giants such as Amazon, Google, Intel, Yahoo, and Microsoft. These offer job opportunities in software design, including UIX, mobile, and web development. Another sector is made up of organizations whose primary business is not computing, such as banks, insurance, and other financial groups; health care organizations; consulting, media and legal firms; entertainment companies; and the military.

As many as one-third of computer science graduates go into research or elect to pursue graduate studies in computer science, including the University of Iowa B.S./M.C.S. program, or pursue other areas where computer science provides a strong foundation.

A recent job placement survey indicates that more than 97 percent of computer science graduates were placed or no longer seeking employment within six months of graduation.