Welcome to the Department of Computer Science at the University of Dayton.
What is Computer Science? Stated simply, it is the science of computation and how computation can be used to solve problems in business, the natural sciences, and engineering. A computer scientist is prepared to design, develop, test, and maintain reliable and robust software systems to solve a variety of problems. Such systems are often complex, interacting with the underlying operating system and with other systems on a computer network. The design and implementation of large software systems from the integration of multiple software components is an area of study known as software engineering. Other sub-disciplines of computer science include artificial intelligence, database management systems, computer networking, computational theory, and systems programming. Each of these represents a rich area of study where the fundamentals of computer science are applied to a specific purpose.
Our undergraduate program dates back to 1961, a time when few institutions were even considering computer science as a discipline. Throughout our history, we have provided our graduates with both a quality education and marketable job skills. We currently offer two undergraduate programs leading to a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Our Computer Science (CPS) and Computer Information Systems (CIS) programs have much in common. Both degrees provide a firm foundation in the study of computing. The CIS program may be customized by the student’s choice of a minor while the CPS program provides a broader experience in mathematics and computer science. Each of these programs leave the graduate well prepared for a successful career in computing. For those interested in graduate study, our Master of Computer Science program enables the student to enhance their professional credentials or pursue advanced scholarship.
The experiences we deliver to our students extend beyond classroom. Activities, programs and events, such as the regional ACM student programming competition or our colloquium series, allow students to interact with faculty and their fellow students, forming beneficial relationships that last beyond graduation. Students have the opportunity for professional experience through coop positions and internships. The University encourages undergraduate students to conduct research, and our faculty members are active in a variety of research areas. Students who complete research projects have the opportunity to present their work at local venues such as the annual Stander Symposium, which showcases student research from all areas of the UD community, as well as at national and international venues.
Our graduates find many job opportunities await them. The foundation they have acquired here can launch careers in application programming, database management, software engineering, systems analysis, systems programming, or computer networking. Regional employers include Teradata, LexisNexis, Procter & Gamble, General Electric, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and a variety of defense contractors. Of course, not all our graduates wish to work in southwestern Ohio, and have found their talents in demand across the nation and abroad, by employers such as Microsoft, Google, Oracle, and NASA.
Some of our students, as they near completion of their degree, realize they would like to continue their education. These graduates have moved on to graduate study at a variety of respected institutions, including Carnegie Mellon University, Purdue University, The Ohio State University, Virginia Tech, and the University of Cincinnati. Many of these graduates have acquired full funding for their graduate study as research and teaching assistants.
If you would like more information about our programs or want to schedule a visit to the department, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Dale E. Courte, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Computer Science
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH 45469-2160
phone: 937-229-3831
email: Dale.Courte@notes.udayton.edu
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