Computer Science (COMP)

Click here for program requirements as listed in Penn State's Undergraduate Degree Programs Bulletin.

This program is designed to prepare students for employment as computer scientists in engineering, scientific, industrial, and business environments as software developers, programmers, and systems analysts. While most students will enter the job market directly upon graduation, graduate school in computer science or related areas is also an option. Selection of electives can be tailored for students pursuing this path.

The Computer Science major provides a solid foundation in the areas of systems programming, algorithm design, artificial intelligence, and engineering large software systems using state-of-the-art methodologies and programming languages.

Students should be expected to: develop a solid foundation in mathematical studies relevant to computer science; master skills in computer science; enjoy possibilities for internships and part-time employment with local companies; and become problem solvers. These goals are consistent with the goals outlined by the Association for Computing Machinery.

For the B.S. degree in Computer Science, a minimum of 120 credits is required.

Computer Science Minor: Student must take a minimum of 18 credits in Computer Science. These credits include CSE 120(3) (or both COMP 350(3) and COMP 351(3)), COMP 432(3), MA SC 370(3), COMP 410(3) and two 400-level COMP courses from approved department list. A grade of C or better is required for all courses in the minor.

Opportunities in Computer Science

Career Opportunities

The Computer Science program at Penn State Harrisburg is designed to prepare a graduate for employment as a computer scientist in engineering, scientific, industrial, and business environments as a software developer, programmer, or systems analyst, and for graduate study in computer science. Studies in Computer Science focus on new and better ways of writing technical software, such as operating systems, graphical interfaces, software utilities, network protocols, and database management systems. Computer scientists are concerned with optimizing the capabilities of computer hardware and other technology. There is a strong emphasis on theory and algorithms.

Professional Affiliations

Professional societies provide insight, experience, and networking in a chosen field. Students in Computer Science often become members of the Association for Computing Machinery, the world’s first educational and scientific computing society dedicated to advancing the art, science, engineering, and application of information technology.

Internships

Computer Science students are encouraged to incorporate internships into their academic program. Provided in a variety of local business and government settings, internships can provide valuable hands-on experience that will benefit graduates during their job search. Previous students have completed successful internships with state government, IBM, UNISYS, and other businesses.

Job Titles

A computer scientist can hold a number of professional positions. The following list provides some examples of positions a computer scientist might hold: Computer Programmer, Computer Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Information Systems Analyst, Software Engineer, Systems Analyst, Data Communications Analyst, Programmer-Analyst, Telecommunications Specialist, Computer Security Specialist, Computer Support Specialist, Technical Salesperson, and Teacher.

Job Outlook

Computer Science jobs are expected to be among the top three fastest growing occupations and one of the top 20 in the number of new jobs created. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for Computer Science graduates are expected to double between 1996 and 2006. This increase reflects the growth of the Internet, corporate intranets, the burgeoning of World Wide Web applications, and the increasing demand for end-user support. Over the last few years, Penn State Harrisburg Computer Science graduates have obtained positions with companies such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Northrop and Grumman, GEOS, Hershey Medical Center, Woolworth, Rite Aid, and EDS.

Mission, Objectives, and Outcomes

Detailed information on the Computer Science program’s Mission, Objectives, and Outcomes is available at the Penn State Harrisburg School of Science, Engineering, and Technology Web site.