The Computer Science program at Concord University has developed two new curricula that prepare students for a wider range of careers. The new curricula are aligned with recommendations from the Association of Computing Machinery and the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
The Computer Science curriculum is designed to give students a thorough understanding of computers, the physics of hardware, the underlying mathematical principles, and the creation of software solutions. The Computer Information Systems curriculum is designed to enable students to organize, analyze, and apply data to implement effective, efficient, and secure technology solutions. Each program’s core prepares students for a wide variety of careers and graduate schools.
Computer Science has three new elective concentrations. Software development teaches students to develop user-focused software solutions for a variety of platforms, and prepares students for careers in software development or software engineering. Cybersecurity teaches students to test for and defend against security vulnerabilities, to create secure software, and to handle the aftermath of security breaches, and prepares students for careers in computer security or related fields. Analysis, Simulation, and Modeling is designed for students who wish to double major in other scientific disciplines, and prepares students for careers in analytics, artificial intelligence, or scientific computing.
Computer Information Systems has five new elective concentrations. Accounting and Control teaches students to recommend and create software tools to support accounting and finance application, and prepares students for careers in accounting information systems. Geospatial Science teaches students to utilize computational tools to solve environmental and social challenges and prepares students for careers in geographic information systems. Information Technology teaches students a broad array of skills beneficial to any organization and prepares students for careers in data analytics or computer security. Management teaches students how to utilize technology to drive business decision and prepares students for careers in information technology management or management information systems. Web teaches students to apply design principles to develop web pages and visualize information and prepares students for careers in web development or interactive media.
“We’re excited to bring innovative and modern programs to southern West Virginia. Our computing students have a phenomenal track record for finding jobs. These changes provide more options and keep pace with the demands of the technology industry,” stated Dr. Lisa Darlington, Department Chair of Mathematics and Computer Science. “Along with Concord’s General Education program, these courses prepare our students to solve problems that haven’t been discovered yet, and to adapt to an ever changing world.”
For additional information please contact Mr. Lonnie Bowe, professor of Computer Science, at lbowe@concord.edu or 304-384-5387.
Originally from Sarah Pritchett for Concord University.