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COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

The Computer Science Department offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, and a Master of Science in Computer and Information Systems, as well as two minors and several certificate programs. Whether you are interested in earning a degree in one of our Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (S.T.E.M.) fields such as Computer Science, software engineering, mobile application development, system administration, website development or a host of other careers, we have courses and programs that can help you achieve your goals. Plus, our flexible scheduling makes us an ideal department for both full-time and part-time students.


COMPUTER SCIENCE 


Welcome to the S.T.E.M. field that makes it all work!

Computer Science is one of the STEM fields that involves the theory and practice of solving problems through computation. It deals with information processing, the design of computer hardware, and creating software applications for a wide variety of platforms.  Computer scientists harness the power of a computer to solve challenging and complex problems. They create “office” software, database management systems, games, and the cruise control system that powers your car.

If you are good at puzzles, enjoy solving challenging problems and of course are drawn to computers, then the Computer Science Department at UW-Parkside may be the ideal place for you to jump start a career as a computer professional.

Computers permeate our modern existence. They are in televisions, coffee makers, and soda machines. They control the cars we drive and power our iPods. They enable the transmission of text messages and are the major components in cell phones. Computers are essential to business, healthcare, engineering, law enforcement, criminal justice, theater, and virtually every other occupation. 

99% PLACEMENT RATE FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE GRADUATES

Undergraduate Programs

Our undergraduate program is based on ACM.IEEE internationally recognized guidelines for Computer Science. This means that our courses contain rigorous content. It also means that students can easily transfer to our program from other universities. Our undergraduate program is highly respected in the region with approximately 99% of our graduates employed in professional positions or furthering their education in graduate school.

Graduate Programs

Our graduate program in Computer and Information Systems blends technically oriented computing courses with more applied business oriented courses, making it an ideal program for professionals wanting to continue their education or for individuals wanting to retrain in computing. 

The collaborative online graduate program in Information Technology Management combines the worlds of technology and business strategy through a multidisciplinary curriculum aimed to prepare you to become an IT leader in any industry.

The collaborative online graduate program in Cybersecurity deepens your understanding of information security, leading to new and advanced opportunities in the fast-growing field. Four unique tracks are available. 

Our undergaduate programs in Computer Science or Management Information Systems, along with our many certificates and minors, provide an excellent foundation to these advanced degrees.

app factory

App Factory

The App Factory is a creative, professional, interdisciplinary group on campus that develops mobile apps for clients throughout the region. Graduate and undergraduate students, along with faculty from computer science, business, art and design, and other disciplines, collaborate to create apps in a startup company style environment. Students gain real world experience working with clients and working on live projects as part of internships or course credit.

Job Outlook

The demand for computer science professionals will grow well into the future. The US Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics projections show that many computer science professions will increase much faster than the average for all occupations.

The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) lists computing jobs as among the highest paid while offering the highest job satisfaction of any occupation. They also state "having a computing major provides a foundation of knowledge, problem solving, and logical thinking which serves as a competitive advantage regardless of the field you choose."

Business Analyst | Works as a liaison to analyze and communicate business processes into technical requirements which a programmer or developer can then use to create systems which meet all requirements of the customer.

Database Administrator |  This person is responsible for the environmental aspects of a database. The role of a database administrator has changed according to the technology of database management systems (DBMSs) as well as the needs of the owners of the databases. For example, although logical and physical database design are traditionally the duties of a database analyst or database designer, a DBA may be tasked to perform those duties.

Information Systems Auditor | Ensures a company adheres to legislation and best practices to increase efficiency and reduce risk while ensuring legal compliance.

Programmer | This person writes, tests, debugs, and/or maintains the detailed instructions, called computer programs, which computers must follow to perform their functions. Programmers also conceive, design, and test logical structures for solving problems by computer for business, scientific or consumer applications.

Project Manager | Defined as a facilitator. Plans, tracks, and manages computer-orientated projects, communicates with customers, developers, service providers and/or vendors. Directly responsible for making decisions in such a way risk is controlled and uncertainty minimized.

Quality Assurance or Test Engineer | Ensures software products work as specified. Designs, develops and documents test plans.

Security Analyst | Develops and implements plans and configurations to ensure secure data and information resources.

Software Engineer | Applies the principles of software engineering to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of the software and systems which make computers, appliance, machinery, or anything which uses software to work effectively.

System or Network Administrator | Configures, manages and maintains computers and their networks.

The United States Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the following average starting salaries:

  • Computer engineer - $53,396
  • Computer programmers - $49,928
  • Database administrators - $48,560  
  • Desktop support analysts - $46,500 to $65,250  
  • Help Desk Workers - $27,500 to $37,000  
  • Systems administrators - $50,000 to $75,750


Experience and internships may also increase starting salaries. Most UW-Parkside students complete internships or are offered summer or part-time employment, and have a competitive advantage at graduation.

The SANS Institute (SANS): a large and trusted source on information security and research world wide. Some of the research projects include: Top 25 Software Errors and 20 Coolest Careers in Infosec. Visit their website for updated information and resourses.

DEPARTMENT CHAIR

Dr. Vijayalakshmi (Viji) Ramasamy
Chair, Department of Computer Science
Academic Director, MSCIS Program
ramasamy@uwp.edu

UW-Parkside's Computer Science department provides a dynamic, energetic environment for students and faculty alike. In recent years, we have been adding new courses and programs. The department houses an undergraduate major in Computer Science (CS), a master's program in Computer and Information Systems (MSCIS), and minors in CS and Web Development. In addition, we also offer certificates in Unix System Administration, Cyber Security, Mobile Application Development, and World Wide Web Publishing.

Our CS major currently has over 200 students and we are growing every year. CS graduates are placing into positions at leading regional companies including: SC Johnson, EPIC, TriCore, Snap-On, Northwestern Mutual, Jockey, and a host of other companies and organizations. In recent years, some of our graduates have obtained positions nationally. Some examples include:  Microsoft in Redmond, Washington or IBM in Maryland, 

The CS programs strengths include:

  • Highly educated, professional instructors
  • Small class sizes. Most of our classes have only 25-30 students
  • Great internship opportunities.
  • The majority of our students accept summer or full year internships before they graduate.
  • The practical work experience they gain is invaluable when seeking full-time employment.

Our MSCIS graduate program is small but high quality. Computer and Information Systems is a blend of technical, theoretical and business knowledge and skills. The program is taught by faculty from both Computer Science and Business. Similar to our undergraduate program, our MSCIS graduates frequently find employment with regional and international companies. The department's minors and certificate programs are oriented towards students who want to gain foundational skills in specific areas without pursuing an entire degree.  There is a strong sense of community within the CS Department. We are working hard together to develop computing professionals for the 21st century.

Mission

Computer Science offers strong academic programs that prepare students for flexible career paths and continuing advancement in computing. To fulfill this mission the Department of Computer Science will:

  • Offer high quality undergraduate computer science and graduate computer information system programs, which prepare and advance students in computing disciplines, as well as certificate programs to enhance, augment, or update technical skills.
  • Provide high quality faculty and staff who hold appropriate degrees and who demonstrate a commitment to remaining professionally current via ongoing research and professional development programs.
  • Educate students in computational and information technology competencies, including students whose primary focus is outside of computing.
  • Provide a learning environment that helps students to be successful in their professional lives, and includes collaborative interaction between students, faculty, and staff.
  • Prepare students to be lifelong learners by offering a solid theoretical foundation in computing, as well as applied computing experiences, including opportunities for community based learning.
  • Attract and retain a diverse and multicultural population of students, faculty, and staff.

We would like to:

  • Expand the number of students in our undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Increase diversity, including more women and minority students.
  • Improve our first year retention. Students must come into the program better prepared and once they arrive, they must be better advised in their first year.
  • Promote the career opportunities offered by computer science, to meet the ongoing needs of industry.
  • Enhance relationships with industry and professional societies.
  • Seek ABET accreditation.

The strengths of the UW-Parkside Computer Science department include:

  • High-quality Instruction | The department has continuously proven to produce high quality graduates, as evidenced by the high scores achieved by seniors on international standardized tests, the high placement rate of graduates in industry, and competitive wins or placement in regional programming competitions. High results are attributable to small class sizes, a good curriculum, and faculty interest.
  • Regional Opportunities |  The region, located between the two major cities of Chicago and Milwaukee, provide ample opportunity for student internships, employment, and community-based learning projects. The region is also one of the most populous from which to attract students.
  • Broad Based Modern Program |  The computer science faculty recognizes the need to adapt its curriculum to regional needs and student abilities. The high portion of faculty with industry experience ensures that the content and quality of the program can meet business needs. The high portion of faculty with PhDs ensures that the program is sufficiently theoretical to ensure that students develop critical thinking abilities.
  • Congenial Department |  The faculty members have a good working relationship both with each other and with students. The department culture is one of shared governance and consensus. Faculty members take an interest in the students, and work to build relationships with them.
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