Undergraduate FAQ

Question: What are the differences between Computer Information Systems, Computer Engineering, and Computer Science?

Answer: There is a lot of overlap between these three disciplines, so it's understandable that students are confused about which to choose to major in. Here's a brief explanation of the differences between these disciplines.

The Computer Information Systems discipline focuses on computer applications for business environments. A student in this discipline will develop business skills, such as accounting and management, as well as computing skills related to these subjects. Students learn how to use computers to aid in the management of information and how to develop software to solve business problems. Subjects in a typical Computer Information Systems degree plan include business system analysis and design, business application development, database management, and project management.

The Computer Engineering discipline focuses on understanding and building computer systems. A Computer Engineering student studies the details of a computer, from the microprocessor level all the way up to the software level. Students learn how design digital systems and computer hardware, and how to develop software to drive the computer systems they build. Subjects in a typical Computer Engineering degree plan include integrated circuit design, microcontrollers, microprocessors, computer architecture, and software development.

The Computer Science discipline focuses primarily on software development. Students in Computer Science learn how to analyze a problem, design a solution to the problem, and write software (or design hardware) based on the solution design. They study details of computer hardware to some degree, though usually not as detailed as a Computer Engineering student. Subjects in a typical Computer Science degree plan include problem analysis, software design, data structures and algorithms, computer architecture, software engineering, operating systems, and programming languages.

Question: Where do I get the forms?

Answer: They are available in the CS department office. (Note to faculty: forms to document actions on for special cases are available here.)

Question: I have taken a course three times, but I have not yet passed it. The system does not allow me to register. What can I do?

Answer: Students may repeat courses at most three times. (See p 153 and p 271 in the 2006-2008 catalog, or similar wording in other catalogs.) The catalog states,

Once a student has reached the maximum of three enrollments, he or she will not be allowed to enroll in the course a fourth time. IF the course is required in the student's degree plan, the student will not be able to complete the requirements for that degree.

Question: What is the deal with freshman courses after 90 credits?

Answer: Students must complete all 1000-level courses before they have acquired 90 credits. The catalog states (p 119 of the 2008 catalog),

All freshman-level courses which are required by specific course number must be completed before the student has completed 90 hours toward the degree. Mo credit for these freshmen-level courses will be granted toward fulfilling the minimum credit hour requirements for the degree even though the courses must be completed.

Question: I've been told I need to plan my degree by figuring out when I'm going to take classes. How can I know when the department will offer classes?

Answer: Look here.