Academic Programs

How does the major work at Transylvania?

Transylvania's computer science major consists of 14 courses divided into five categories.

1. Foundational courses

Calculus I: Introduction to the world of continuous mathematics
Foundations of Computer Science: Overview of computer science
Logic and Problem Solving: Introduction to algorithm design and implementation
Data Structures: Algorithm design and analysis, with fast-paced projects using object-oriented techniques
Computer Organization: Introduction to computer hardware, including assembly language, hands-on breadboard circuit building, and learning to build a CPU from scratch
Discrete Structures: Overview of discrete mathematics focusing on proof techniques and intermediate algorithm analysis
Computational Theory: Advanced algorithm analysis and an introduction to formal languages

2. One additional upper level computer science course

3. Networked model of computation (choose 1)

Database Design: Theory and implementation of managing large data sets
Interface Programming: Theory and implementation of interface techniques
Netcentric Computing: Theory and implementation of operating systems and networks

4. Language theory (choose 1)

Compiler Construction: Design and implementation of a small language compiler
Principles of Programming Languages: Comparison of the four families of computer languages and programming in each

5. Concentration

Three upper-level courses from any program on campus, selected with your advisor, that represent something you are passionate about
Senior project

The chance to spend an entire term doing an intensive computer science research project related to your area of concentration

Courses of special interest:

Artificial Intelligence
Computer Graphics
Robotics
Interface Programming
Cryptology

Catalog 2012-2013

Transylvania's computer science program combines the core knowledge and skills needed in the field while providing you with numerous opportunities to take courses in diverse areas such as robotics, cryptology, and networking.

The core curriculum introduces students to the field and delves into subjects such as compiler design and computer organization. Students also have the option to more deeply explore topics such as computer graphics or artificial intelligence.

This unique concentration approach allows students to focus on any area of study during their junior and senior years and tie it to computer science. In the senior project course, students apply that knowledge to a real world project. For example, students have built projects relating to staging theater productions, conducting political science research, and creating computer animated films.

Computer Science Major/Minor Patterns
Major
14 Courses:
CS	1124	Foundations of Computer Science
CS	2124	Logic and Problem Solving
CS	2144	Computer Organization
CS	2344	Discrete Structures
CS	2444	Data Structures
CS	3344	Computational Theory
CS	4444	Senior Project in Computer Science
MATH	1304	Calculus I
1 course from:
CS	3024	Compiler Construction
CS	3234	Theory of Programming Languages
1 course from:
CS	3074	Netcentric Computing
CS	3144	Database Management Systems
CS	3164	Interface Programming
One additional 3000 or 4000-level Computer Science course. Concentration courses: 3 upper-level courses chosen from any program on campus. Students wishing for a "pure" computer science degree will select concentration courses in computer science or mathematics.
Minor
6 courses:
CS	1124	Foundations of Computer Science
CS	2124	Logic and Problem Solving
CS	2444	Data Structures
3 additional computer science courses, including at least 1 3000-level course and excluding CS 1014, Introduction to Computers.

Transylvania University admits students regardless of age, race, color, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, national origin, or any other classification protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.