Computer Science is the systematic study of algorithmic methods for representing and transforming information, including their theory, design, implementation, application, and efficiency.
The discipline emerged in the 1950s from the development of computability theory and the invention of the stored-program electronic computer. The roots of computer science extend deeply into mathematics and engineering. Mathematics imparts analysis to the field; engineering imparts design.
Computer and information technologies are critical to the nation’s technological infrastructure and competitive advantage in today’s knowledge-based global economy. These technologies have enabled discoveries and inventions in diverse fields of study, and have transformed society and our daily lives in dramatic ways.
Computer Science (CS) is a systematic study of the concepts, foundations and applications of software, hardware, and intelligent systems. Typical subjects include: programming languages, data structure, algorithms, computer organization, operating systems and machine learning.
Computer scientists are engaged in understanding the algorithmic complexity of problems and the limits of computability, automating human intelligence, providing ubiquitous access to information, or designing secure and effective software, computer, and communication systems. Computer scientists work in every sector of industry, government, and society in general.
Both the BS and BA in Computer Science prepare students well for graduate work or for professional positions in computing and information technology fields. The primary difference is that the BS program provides a more concentrated approach to computer science (depth), while the BA program encourages students to combine computer science with studies in another field (breadth).
The first two years build a strong foundation in object-oriented programming, data structures, and digital systems. During the first two years, CS majors also develop the necessary foundations in calculus, probability/statistics, and discrete mathematics. The student also takes a two-semester sequence in any science discipline during this period.
The junior year is devoted to the study of algorithms, programming languages, computer organization, and theory of computing. These courses continue to provide important core concepts necessary for more advanced study of both hardware and software systems.
The first three years prepare students to take a pair of required courses in the senior year: software engineering and operating systems. The final year is devoted to elective courses in topics such as software systems, networking, and artificial intelligence.
Other important topics in Computer Science include Computer Graphics, Databases, Networks and Protocols, Numerical Methods, Operating Systems, Parallel Computing, Simulation and Modeling, and Software Engineering.
These industry and government employers represent a sample of where our undergraduate CS program graduates work:
Alcatel, Apple, Bellcore, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cisco, Conexant, General Electric (GE), Hewlett-Packard (HP), IBM Almaden Research Center, IBM's T. J. Watson Research Center, Kodak Research Labs, Lucent Technologies, Microsoft, Motorola-Lexicus Division, NASA-Ames, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Oracle, Panasonic, Qualcomm, Ricoh California Research Center, Samsung, Viewlogic Systems
Co-Director of Undergraduate Studies
Dr. Kris Schindler
346 Davis Hall
Co-Director of Undergraduate Studies
Dr. Jaroslaw (Jaric) Zola
209 Capen Hall
Undergraduate Academic Coordinator
Shelly Neumaier
338O Davis Hall
Prospective Student Questions
cse-uginfo@buffalo.edu
Current Student Questions
cse-uginfo@buffalo.edu