About Computer Science
As society becomes immersed in the Information Age, the computing discipline has become an integral aspect of our world today. Computer scientists are more than just programmers. They work to solve problems from all walks of life. One may be involved in science exploring the mysteries of the universe and another may be involved in medical research. A computer scientist may be solving problems with engineers in design and implementation projects while another makes extensive use of computers in music, art or business information processing.
Because computer science is ever-changing and closely interacts with other disciplines, it is important that computer science programs encompass a broad range of topics, such as programming and programming languages, hardware and software systems design, and formal languages and computation theory. The computer science degree programs at Baylor represent these topics in its curriculum., which is modeled on the standards of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the professional society for computer science.
A major strength of the program is a balance between practice and theory. While we strive to provide students with a high competency in computer science theory, we also expect students to apply theory to solve real problems, gaining valuable experience to the practical expectations in industry.
Hallmarks of the Department of Computer Science at Baylor are similar to programs across the campus: individual advising, a highly-qualified faculty, small classes, and a commitment to undergraduate education. Baylor’s broad-based liberal arts background enables students to add breadth to areas represented in the department. Group projects, technical writing, and individual presentations enhance skills necessary for success in the ever-expanding areas of computer applications.
Most faculty members have research, industrial or consulting experience in addition to Ph.D. degrees. Faculty and students enhance their knowledge of computer science by participating in professional organizations and activities.
The Department of Computer Science prepares students for these roles by offering a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (B.S.C.S.) degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree with a major in Computer Science, a Bachelor of Science in Informatics (B.S.I.) degree with a major in bioinformatics or data science, a Master of Science in Computer Science, an Online Master of Science in Computer Science, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science.
A Computer Science minor and Data Science minor are offered for students in other programs.
Our Mission
The mission of the Computer Science Department is to provide a transformational educational experience in a Christian context through personalized mentoring and instruction, advanced scholarship, professional practice, and service that prepares our graduates for lifelong learning and ethically responsible leadership in the field.
Our Vision
We seek to be an outstanding Computer Science Department, known for quality education and leading edge research.