Computer Science
Mission, Educational Objectives and Program Outcomes
Mission
The mission of the School of ENCS is to provide high-quality education that prepares graduates for success in professional practice and advanced studies. The School provides this education through small-size undergraduate and graduate programs that allow close interaction between faculty and students. Additionally, the School's mission includes performance of applied as well as fundamental research through engagement with area industry and the pursuit of scholarly activities by its faculty.
Educational Objectives
The goal of our program is to prepare our graduates for successful professional practice and advanced studies by providing a broad education in computer science and by offering the opportunity to deepen their technical understanding in a particular concentration area of related technical electives.
As a graduate of the WSU Vancouver Computer Science program:
- You will be a knowledgeable and skilled computer scientist. Each graduate's knowledge will span the fundamental principles of computer science and include an understanding of several advanced specialty areas. Graduates will have practical experience with tools, languages and systems which are representative of those used by regional industries. Analytical problem solving and well-crafted software solutions will be a hallmark of our graduates.
- You will exhibit the workplace behaviors expected by employers. Employers can expect our graduates to communicate clearly, to maintain task commitment, to stay organized, and to overcome obstacles, while working individually or in a team. Graduates will demonstrate these behaviors in their jobs and careers.
- You will be committed to high standards of professionalism. Graduates will embrace a professional code of ethics in their practice of computer science. They will recognize the social impact of their work and respect the intellectual property of others.
- You will adapt to the changing landscape of computer science. Effective computer scientists must regularly update their knowledge and skills. WSU Vancouver graduates augment their knowledge and develop new skills with individual study, classes and other techniques. Some graduates will pursue advanced degrees; others will take advantage of professional development opportunities.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of WSU Vancouver will possess:
a. Firm foundation and knowledge of mathematics, statistics, science, and computing principles, and the ability to apply this knowledge to solving problems.b. Foundational knowledge of computer engineering and the methods by which computers are constructed and organized.
c. Ability to design, implement, test and evaluate a computing system, software component, or algorithm to meet required needs and imposed constraints.
d. Ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams.
e. Ability to identify and analyze problems, and synthesize computational solutions.
f. Understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
g. Ability to communicate effectively in writing, orally, and visually.
h. Ability to understand the global and societal impacts of computing technology.
i. Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in, life-long learning and an ability to adapt to changes and advancements in the field of computer science.
j. Knowledge of contemporary problems and technologies related to computer science.
k. Ability to use modern software development tools and languages necessary for professional practice.