COMP 121 Computing in the Arts and Sciences
(4 credits)
Bogaerts, Steven
Prerequisite: Math Placement Level 22 or higher
This introductory course is intended for non-majors, and assumes little computer experience beyond using word processing software. COMP 121 is designed to help students become familiar with computers, their use in problem-solving and their impact on society. Students will create spreadsheets and databases, and will learn some basics of programming. The course meets for four hours and ten minutes each week, and includes extensive time for hands-on practice. The final grade will be based on labs, homework, and exams. Mathematical-reasoning intensive.
COMP 150 Computer Programming I
(5 credits)
Burke, Kyle
Prerequisite: Math Placement Level 22 or higher
Introduction to computer science through the use of programming in the Python language. Designed primarily for the student who expects to take further courses in computer science. Also very valuable for any student who expects to do programming that is related to another discipline (e.g., in the sciences). This course is required for the Computer Science major and minor, the Mathematics major and minor, and the Computational Science minor. It is also recommended or required by certain science programs. The course stresses the development of algorithms and data abstraction to solve problems. It begins with basic algorithm design, progresses through imperative programming and finishes with most of the features of object-oriented programming. Students write 10-15 programs. The class has three 60-minute lecture/demonstrations plus a 90-minute lab per week. Much of the work for the course is done outside of class using the laboratory computers to write, debug and run programs.
The course grade is based on programming assignments, lab exercises, in‑class tests, and a final. Mathematical-reasoning intensive.
COMP 151 Lab for Computer Programming I
(0 credits)
Burke, Kyle
Students in COMP 150 are required to sign up for one section of COMP 151. Graded on S/NC basis. Every year.
COMP 265 Principles of Programming Languages
(4 credits)
Bogaerts, Steven
Prerequisites: COMP 250
This course emphasizes the principles and programming styles (procedural, functional, object-oriented, logic-oriented) that govern the design and implementation of contemporary programming languages. Topics include language syntax and translation, parameter passing, memory management, data types and operations, sequence control, data control, subprograms, and environments. Languages to be studied include those taken from the following: C, C++, Java, C#, ASP.Net, Prolog, and Scheme. Grades are based upon assignments, reports, presentations, and exams. Mathematical-reasoning intensive. Writing intensive.
COMP 331 Introduction to Computer Hardware
(4 credits)
Shelburne, Brian
Prerequisite: COMP 255
This course covers the fundamentals of logic design and the mechanics of information transfer within a digital computer system. Student will learn to use VHDL (VHSIC Hardware Design Language) to program FPGA based Digilent BASYS 2 ™ circuit boards to design and test circuits. The class will meet three times a week for lecture/lab. Grades will be based upon exams and projects .
COMP 380 Matrix Algorithms
(1 credit)
Burke, Kyle
Prerequisite: COMP 250 and Co-requisite MATH 205
Techniques for performing matrix operations covered in Math 205 are algorithms used often in computing. The analysis of the time complexities of these operations is helpful to the understanding of the power of linear algebra. This seminar will use techniques covered in Comp 250 to investigate the running-time of these algorithms. Grades will be based on class participation, homework and a programming assignment. Mathematical reasoning intensive.
COMP 460 Senior Seminar - Topic: Software Engineering
(2 credits)
Bogaerts, Steven
This course will address the area of software engineering through the presentation, discussion and use of recognized software engineering principles. The primary emphasis is on the design, development, and documentation of a group project, but outside readings, presentations, and discussions may be required. This course is required of a senior majoring in computer science. The grade is based upon a combination of independent and group activities. WRITING INTENSIVE. Mathematical-reasoning intensive.
