Computers have become an essential element in our society. Most businesses cannot survive without them. Computers are prevalent in all areas including education, the arts, sciences, sports, law, medicine and communications. It is hard to imagine where we would be without computers, the Internet and the highly skilled programmers, analysts, engineers and software developers who have helped to make computers such an integral part of society.

Dominican University offers three computer majors: computer science, computer information systems and computer graphics. These majors prepare students for the challenging and rewarding world of computers. Dominican’s comprehensive liberal arts program also provides students with the communications and critical-thinking skills required to understand and succeed in a complex and ever-changing society. Currently, there is a high demand in the job market for graduates with a computer major. The challenging field of computer science offers a wide variety of career opportunities in many working environments and some of the highest starting salaries of college graduates.

Computer Science Major

The computer science major includes a core set of courses along with a variety of electives to ensure that each graduate will have a strong, well-rounded background. The curriculum is cutting edge, constantly changing to keep up to date with the latest technology. Classes cover both theory and applications of computer science and expose students to applications in a variety of fields. Computer science students may earn a Bachelor of Arts degree (two mathematics courses) or a Bachelor of Science degree (four mathematics courses).

Computer Information Systems (CIS) Major

The interdisciplinary computer information systems major is structured to encompass the fundamentals of both computer science and business management, focusing on the application of computers in business. Students study a wide range of topics from computer programming, marketing and accounting to computer networking and database management. Students take a total of 16 courses in the combined disciplines of computers and business. At least five of the computer courses and at least four of the business courses must be completed at Dominican.

Computer Facilities

Dominican has several computer classrooms and laboratories. The classrooms and laboratories used for computer science courses are regularly updated with the latest software and hardware. Several operating systems are available on campus. All students have high-speed access to the Internet and email accounts. The student residence halls are also networked. Most computer courses are offered in a computer classroom and include an applied handson component.

The labs and classrooms feature a variety of software including several case and web development tools, integrated development environments for programming, along with Microsoft Office and other application software. With offices located in proximity to the primary computer laboratory, the computer science faculty members are readily available to answer questions and offer suggestions.