Computer and Information Sciences

Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in Computer and Information Sciences

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change.

The computer and information sciences major at Springfield College is a professional program that includes a set of core requirements and a choice of one of four required concentrations: information systems, software development, game programming, and internet and network security respectively. The information systems concentration focuses on those advanced skills in computer information processing that are essential technical computer skills for the business enterprise, including systems analysis and data communications. The software development concentration focuses on advanced theoretical and applied skills that are essential in the development of computer software, including advanced mathematical skills, as well as a sound knowledge of computer systems hardware, computer programming and computer programming languages, and a variety of operating systems. The game programming concentration provides students with those advanced skills that are essential to enter the rapidly developing industry of game programming. These include mastery of object-oriented programming in several programming languages, windows programming in languages such as C++, Microsoft Direct X, windows graphics libraries, open graphics libraries, animation programming, video game design, physics game modeling, artificial intelligence, game engine development, and advanced mathematical skills. The internet and network security concentration provides students with the necessary skills to work as internet and network security specialists in either the private business sector or in the government sector. Possible jobs upon graduation include network administrator, internet and network security specialist, and computer systems security specialist. Students who choose this concentration are well prepared to seek a variety of network certifications. Springfield College is working collaboratively with Springfield Technical Community College in the delivery of the curriculum for the internet and network security concentration.

All students in the computer and information sciences major are encouraged to consider minors in mathematics or business management. In addition, students are strongly encouraged to pursue internship opportunities through the Career Center in order to gain on-the-job experience.

In the computer systems seminar course, students enrich their knowledge of computer systems by pursuing areas of study such as advanced topics in database management systems, networking, computer architecture, programming languages, and artificial intelligence.

For more information about the computer and information sciences major, contact Dr. Peter Polito, chairperson of the Mathematics/Physics/ Computer Science Department, at (413) 748-3313 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Download a Computer and Information Sciences Program Checksheet

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

I. General Education Program (40 - 46 credits)

The General Education program at Springfield College is informed by its century-old Humanics tradition of educating the whole person in spirit, mind, and body, for leadership in service to humanity. These requirements have the goal of developing literate, thoughtful, socially responsible students, and instilling in them a spirit of inquiry into the nature of humankind and the universe. Towards those ends, the requirements emphasize and encourage: the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and competency essential for the improvement of the human condition in a diverse society; a search for personal and spiritual values; and the development of an understanding and appreciation of physical well-being. For specific requirements, see the General Education Program section or the Program Checksheet for this major.

II. Major Requirements

A. Core Requirements

CISC 105 - Introduction to Computer Concepts Credits: 3
CISC 115 - Microcomputer Applications Credits: 3
CISC 175 - Introduction to Computer Science with C++ and Java Credits: 3
CISC 235 - Computer Logic Design Credits: 3
CISC 275 - Data Structures Using C++ Credits: 3
CISC 315 - Database Development and Management Credits: 3
CISC 482 - Computer Systems Seminar Credits: 3
ENGL 302 - Business Writing Credits: 3
MATH 235 - Discrete Mathematics I Credits: 3

B. Concentration Requirements

Select one of the following concentrations:

4. Internet and Network Security

Springfield College courses

CISC 375 - Computer Architecture Credits: 3
CISC 410 - Fundamentals of Operating Systems Credits: 3

Springfield Technical Community College courses

(all courses listed below are existing courses at STCC)

PROG 350 - Internet/Network Security 1 Credits: 3
PROG 412 - Networks 1 Credits: 3
PROG 413 - Networks 2 Credits: 3
PROG 414 - Networks 3: Advanced Network Topics Credits: 3
PROG 416 - Advanced Security Topics Credits: 3
PROG 450 - Internet/Network Security 2 Credits: 3

III. Electives (to complete a minimum of 120 credits)

IV. Advanced Standing and Program Standards

In order to continue in the computer and information sciences major, students must qualify for advanced standing during the spring semester of their sophomore year, prior to registration for junior-level classes. In order to qualify for advanced standing as a computer and information sciences major, students must:

Achieve at least a 2.500 cumulative GPA.
Achieve at least a 2.500 GPA in their program requirements.
Complete all program requirements with a grade of C- or better. Courses in which unsatisfactory grades were received must be repeated.
Be making satisfactory progress toward the completion of their program of study, as determined by the academic advisor and the department.
Have completed, or be in the process of completing, any program requirements in which an incomplete was received. (Incomplete grades in program requirements must be completed by the end of the semester following the receipt of the incomplete, unless an extended deadline has been negotiated.)

Students who do not meet these minimum standards are placed on departmental probationary status for a period of not more than one year. A student will be removed from departmental probationary status if and only if the minimum standards for advanced standing have been met. A student who is unable to meet the minimum standards during the probationary period will be subject to being dropped from the major. Once achieved, advanced standing must be maintained in order to continue in the major and complete the program.

Academic Catalog