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Computer Science
Department Web site: www.cs.iit.edu
Computers have changed what we do and how we do it—
in our homes, in our offices, and throughout our world.
The discipline of computer science focuses upon the many
challenging problems encountered in the development
and use of computers and computer software. Areas of
study in computer science range from theoretical analyses
into the nature of computing and computing
algorithms, through the development of advanced computing
devices and computer networks, to the design and
implementation of sophisticated software systems.
The department offers two undergraduate programs in
computer science: a Bachelor of Science in Computer
Science and Bachelor of Science with specialization in
Computer Information Systems. Both programs provide
an excellent background in computer science and allow for
ample study in other areas. Where these programs differ is
in the approach they take to computer science. The B.S. in
Computer Science provides an in-depth experience focusing
on the theory and practice of computer science while the
B.S. in Computer Information Systems provides a more
interdisciplinary experience, balancing study in computer
science with study in another field.
In addition to these programs in computer science, the university
offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer
Engineering. This program focuses on both the digital electronics
hardware used in computer systems and the
software that controls this hardware, with an emphasis on
the design and implementation of computer-controlled systems.
This program is described in detail on page 88
Each graduate of the B.S. in Computer Science program
should be able to:
• Analyze, design, implement, and test a software solution
to “real world” problems.
• Write technical documents such as specifications,
design, and users manuals in appropriate formats.
• Orally present deliverables related to Computer
Science.
• Be prepared to enter a top-ranked graduate program
in Computer Science.
• Have a strong theoretical as well as practical background
in Computer Science.
• Have an appreciation of human behavior, culture,
interaction, and organization through studies in the
humanities and social sciences.
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• Have a basic understanding of science and engineering
and their linkages to key technologies.
• Have an enthusiasm for the educational process and
for professional practices.
• Be able to work in interdisciplinary groups consisting
of nontechnical and technical members.
All three programs begin with a set of introductory courses
that work together to provide students with a firm foundation
in computer science. These introductory courses
include weekly labs in which students use state-of-the-art
software development techniques (object-oriented programming
in C++ or Java, for instance) to create solutions to
interesting problems. The department’s unique four-phase
laboratory model encourages student creativity by providing
ample opportunity for constructive feedback on each
student’s efforts. Having completed the introductory core,
a student is prepared to work independently within a
well-structured design framework—in the classroom or on
the job.
The last two years of study build upon this foundation.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science focuses on
the concepts and techniques used in the design and development
of advanced software systems. Students in this
program explore the conceptual underpinnings of computer
science—its fundamental algorithms, programming
languages, operating systems, and software engineering
techniques. In addition, students choose from a rich set of
electives—including computer graphics, artificial intelligence,
database systems, computer architecture, and
computer networks, among others. As with the introductory
sequence, these advanced courses stress “hands-on”
learning by doing. A generous allotment of free electives
allows students to combine study in computer science with
study in another field—either by taking a well-defined
specialized minor in another discipline or by working
with an adviser to formulate a program that combines
experiences across disciplines.
The B.S. with specialization in Computer Information
Systems program emphasizes the use of computers as
sophisticated problem-solving tools. Students in this
program pursue an interdisciplinary course of study that
combines a solid foundation in computer science with
a focus in another discipline. This program is designed
for students who seek to blend their computer science
abilities with skills specific to another domain to solve
problems in that domain. Examples include computing
with a business focus (e.g., management information
systems) or computing with a natural science focus
(e.g., computational physics).
IIT Undergraduate Bulletin 2006–2008
Computer Science
79