Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with a computer science degree?
What is the difference between a Computer Science degree and a Computer Information Systems degree?
How long does it take to get a CS degree?
What are the math requirements for a CS degree?
As a high school student, what courses should I take?
What Computer Science courses can I transfer in?
Can I test out of some of the introductory CS courses?
What course are offered and when are they offered?
Other questions? Submit your questions
What can I do with a computer science degree?
There are a number of interesting and rewarding career opportunities available. The Career Opportunities link explains the specific of many field in more depth. There is hardly an industry in existence today that hasn't been in some way directly or indirectly impacted by computers. They are pervasive. In the room that you are sitting you can probably find several computers and the software that run on them. Besides the computer you are currently on you may find software in the Play Station or Game Boy. A digital thermostat that controls the temperature of your room will contain software. If you have a digit watch you are wearing a computer.
Computer jobs are found in every major industry from telecommunications to food services. Most systems today are built of a series of computers networked together. The controlling element of all of these systems is software. If you want to have a fundamental understanding of the systems that surround you everyday and want to have influence in how they behave, then software is where you will probably want to be.
What is the difference between a Computer Science degree and a Computer Information Systems degree?
A Computer Science (CS) degree is not a s specialized as a Computer Information System (CIS) degree. The CIS degree program is focused primarily on the development of business applications. The CS degree is a more general degree that does not provide a specific specialization. It s focus is on how software applications are developed.
The CS program at Tarleton does emphasis software engineering and embedded systems development. It requires a firm mathematical underpinning. However, the core CS topics are covered in depth which will prepare the student for a career in Computer Science.
How long does it take to get a CS degree?
Typically, the CS degree is a 4 years program. The length of time is dependent on a number of factors including course load, number of hours transferred in, and previous changes of major to mention a a few.
What are the math requirements for a CS degree?
Specifically Math 1204 - Calculus I, Math 3103 Discrete Mathematics, Math 3603 Numerical Analysis are required. A description of these courses can be found in the Course Catalog.
As a high school student, what courses should I take?
Of course any computer science courses will be useful, especially the programming courses. In addition, mathematic courses will definitely help you with computer science and most any other field. Studies have found that High School students who have four years of math are more likely to graduate from college than those that do not. Mathematics helps to develop critical thinking skills that are used in many disciplines and throughout life.
What Computer Science courses can I transfer in?
That depends on the course. Generally C, C++, Java and Data Structure courses will transfer with no problem. However, you need to speak with your advisor to see what exactly will transfer.
Can I test out of some of the introductory CS courses?
That depends on your background and experience. Check with your advisor to see what the requirements are.
What course are offered and when are they offered?
The Course Listing and Online Course Schedules will provide specific answers to this question. In addition, for those courses not being offered in the immediate future the Generic Schedule will give you an idea of when a course will be offered.