I
really like computers, but I'm not quite sure
about computer science. What kind of things will
I learn in computer science?
That's a pretty complicated question which deserves
more than a brief response. Nonetheless, here's a
condensed view of computer science at Stonehill.
Computer science courses fall roughly into four
(overlapping) categories : theory, architecture,
systems software, and applications.
In one particular theory
course ( Theory of Computation ) you may
discuss the limits of computation ("What problems cannot
be solved on a computer?") while in the Algorithms
course you may write a program to find the
shortest route between, say, New York and Los
Angeles and then prove that you your
solution is correct. In the Compiler Design course
you will even learn how to design and implement your
own homemade programming language.
In the architecture sequence
you will explore the computer "under the hood." In Computer
Logic and Organization, you will design a
small computer on paper and, later, in Microcomputer
Electronics build your computer in the lab
where you will see your logic come to life.
The systems software group
includes courses like Operating Systems where
you'll learn how an operating system like Windows or
UNIX is constructed. Rounding out the
curriculum is a number of applications
courses like Artificial Intelligence where
you will understand how a computer can play chess
and even write a few games of your own or Data
Structures where you may design a computer
simulation to determine how many runways should be
built for a community airport.
Of course, you will first learn how to write computer programs. To this
end, all freshmen currently learn the programming
language Java in their first year at Stonehill. In
addition to formal courses, most students do
internship work in their junior or senior years.
The professional organization of computer
scientists, The ACM can
give you more detailed information about computer
science and the many career opportunities fo
computer scientists.
What
kind of background do I need to major in
computer science?
You need a strong analytical background including
mathematics through intermediate algebra and
trigonometry as well as the ability to think
logically.
I've had
no computer programming in high school, will
that be a problem?
No, the introductory programming sequence starts
from square one. No particular background is
assumed.
What
programming languages will I learn?
In your freshman year you will study Java. In upper
level courses you will learn a variety of other
languages such as C++, Scheme, and Perl.
I've
heard that computer science is a very difficult
and time consuming major. Is that true?
Definitely, but the rewards are worth the effort.
If I
major in computer science, is it necessary that
I buy a computer before I come to college?
Not
at all. You may use any of the lab computers
at the college.
If I
wish to get a new computer, what should I get?
If
you do not own a computer, you can use any of the
machines in the public labs.
If I
major in computer science, can I do an internship in my
junior or senior year?
Qualified
upper classmen often do internships for credit. In
fact, in recent years most students have done
internship work. Typically, a student will work
10-12 hours per week on his/her internship and earn
three semester hours of course credit. Many of
our students do internships at local companies such
as General Dynamics, which is an easy commute
to Stonehill.
What are
some of the companies where Stonehill alumni
work?
Stonehill
alumni have done very well on the job market. CS
graduates have found jobs at Facebook, Microsoft,
General Dynamics, IBM, EMC, RSA, Digital
Research Group, Intersystems,
Fidelity, Northrup-Grumman, Abacus
Software, Staples, and Putnam Investments
to name a few.
Do many
of your graduates attend graduate school?
Many
of our students opt to attend graduate school
directly after receiving a degree from Stonehill.
Some of the schools which our graduates have
attended are Brown, Duke, Dartmouth,
University of Virginia, University of
Maryland, Tufts University, University of
Massachusetts, Boston University, The University of
Texas, and University of Connecticut
How big
are the classes in computer science at
Stonehill?
The
introductory classes have about 25 students. The
upper level classes may have 10-20 students but may
be as small as 4 or 5.
Will I
have access to the internet and e-mail at
Stonehill?
All
students have accounts with e-mail and wireless
access to the Internet.
Well,
you have answered some of my questions , but I'd
still like to know................
For
questions about the programs in computer science or
computer engineering contact:
Prof. Ralph Bravaco : ralph@stonehill.edu
We will get back to you.
