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Computer Science

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AS Degree – Code #0532

Ronald Keeney, Program Coordinator
Email address: keeneyrh@alfredstate.edu

The computer science program at Alfred State was one of the originally established programs in the SUNY system. It is a comprehensive program, which will prepare you for this fast-moving field with courses in the underlying theories of computing, as well as the specific applications of information manipulation and problem solving.

Advantages

Students develop strong written and oral communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  • Communicate effectively and efficiently, both orally and in writing.
  • Employ critical thinking and problem-solving skills in developing solutions to problems.
  • Create and modify functional, clear, concise software design and implementation with current programming languages.
  • Create functional webpages using web scripting languages.
  • Demonstrate the scientific method in one area of natural science.
  • Assess and implement appropriate data structures within a programming project.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in basic office automation software.
  • Solve problems in a team setting as a team member.
  • Identify issues of professional ethics, including copyright laws, plagiarism, and professional etiquette.
  • Demonstrate proficiency with mathematical principles through the level of calculus or discrete mathematics.

Direct Entry Into Baccalaureate Degree Programs

Alfred State computer science graduates may enter directly into either the information technology: applications software development BTech, interdisciplinary studies BTech or technology management BBA degree program.

Continuing Education Opportunities

The primary focus of the computer science program is transfer. The AS degree granted is specifically designed to maximize transfer credit to four-year programs. Transfer into the information technology programs: network administration, web development, and applications software development is possible with junior status with careful selection of courses for electives.

Occupational Opportunities

  • Network management
  • Systems administration
  • Computer engineering technology
  • Computer support
  • Computer programming
  • Database administration
  • Web development

Employment Statistics

Employment and continuing education rate of 100 percent – 100 percent continued their education.

Related Programs

Computer Engineering Technology
Computer Information Systems
Cyber Security
Information Technology: Applications Software Development
Information Technology: Network Administration
Information Technology: Web Development

Entrance Requirements/recommendations

Required: Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2

Recommended: Pre-calculus, Physics 

Required Course Prerequisites

If students do not place into MATH 1033 College Algebra, MATH 1084 Calculus I, MATH 1323 Quantitative Reasoning, 1034 College Algebra of Functions, 1054 Precalculus, or 2124 Statistical Methods & Analysis, then MATH 1014 Algebra Concepts is a required prerequisite for completion of the major.

If students do not place into PHYS 1024 General Physics I or PHYS 1044 College Physics I, then PHYS 1014 Introductory Physics is a required prerequisite for completion of this major.

Office of Accessibility Services

Students who believe they need a reasonable accommodation to properly participate in this program may contact Melanie Ryan in the Office of Accessibility Services. This office may be contacted by email at oas@alfredstate.edu  or by phone at 607-587-4506. Please keep in mind that some accommodations may take time to implement, so students seeking accommodations are encouraged to contact OAS as early as possible.

Required Equipment

A tier 2 laptop computer is required for students entering the computer science program. Laptop specifications are available at www.alfredstate.edu/required-laptops. 

Computer Science - AS Degree

TYPICAL FOUR-SEMESTER PROGRAM

First

CISY 1023 Intro to Information Tech 3
CISY 1113 Computer Programming I 3
COMP 1503 Writing Studies 3
MATH xxx3 Pre-Calculus 1054 or above 3
XXXX xxx3 Gen Ed Elective 3
      15

Second

CISY 2133 Computer Programming II 3
MATH 1084 Calculus I 4
CISY 2153 Database Appl and Programng I 3
LITR xxx3 Literature Elective 3
XXXX xxx3 Gen Ed Elective 3
      16

Third

CISY 4033 Networking I 3
CISY 3223 Intro to Web Page Development 3
MATH 2163 Discrete Mathematics 3
XXXX  xxx4 Gen Ed - Natural Science w/Lab 4
CISY 3193 Computer Architecture & Organi 3
      16

Fourth

CISY 4053 Linux/Unix Admin and Scripting 3
    OR  
CISY 5403 Database Concepts 3
CISY 4003 Comp Prgrmming III/Data Strctu 3
SPCH 1083 Public Speaking 3
XXXX  xxx3 Gen Ed Elective 3
XXXX  xxx3 Open Elective 3
      15

Professional electives may include CISY, business, and selected courses from math or engineering as approved by the adviser.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Must complete a minimum of 24 credit hours of required CISY courses and one professional elective approved by adviser with a 2.0 cumulative index. A minimum cumulative index of 2.0, along with other requirements as stated in the College Academic Regulations, must be met by candidates for the AS degree. A minimum of 62 credit hours of course work with 30 credit hours in liberal arts is required.