ABET Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Note that the Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science is not accredited with ABET.

Our programs benefit from continuous assessment of learning outcomes and educational objectives mandated by both Northern Arizona University and by the ABET Computing Accreditation Commission. Results from these assessment activities and discussions with our Computer Science Program Advisory Committee are used to make program and course changes. This results in programs that better meet the learning needs of students and better meet the demand for graduates who can be successful in their chosen career.

Mission and Vision

Vision Statement

The Computer Science programs produce graduates who are immediately able to contribute effectively in either corporate or academic contexts. Our educational philosophy emphasizes realistic software development challenges with a focus on teaming, communication, and project leadership; our curriculum promotes innovation, design, and exploration of the latest advances in the rapidly changing field of computer science.

Mission Statement

Provide an outstanding educational experience by a student-centered faculty who closely track the evolving frontiers in computer science, are innovative and inspiring teachers, and are active practitioners in their technical areas. Key elements of this experience include:

• A curriculum that reliably develops knowledge and skills required for success in modern computer science practice.
• An educational emphasis on a practical balance between theory, design, practical skills, and learning skills to allow graduates to integrate quickly into the modern professional environment.
• Continuously updated courses and content that respond to rapid advances in computing technologies.
• A program that serves Arizona, the nation, and the international community through the practice of professional teaching and activities in computer science.

Program educational objectives (PEOs)

The Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) of the Bachelor of Science degree program in Computer Science are to graduate students who are expected, within a few years of degree completion, to achieve the following objectives:

• Graduates are technically competent and prepared for leadership and professional practice with strength in design, problem solving, communications, and teaming.
• Graduates are grounded in computer science and related mathematical fundamentals and prepared for advanced education and lifelong learning.
• Graduates have an understanding of the scope and implications of the rapid and increasing integration of software-driven technologies into personal and professional spheres of modern society.
• Graduates integrate quickly into the workplace or advanced education due to an emphasis on high-quality teaching, advising, and mentoring.

Program student learning outcomes (SLOs)

By the time you graduate from our undergraduate program, accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, you will have achieved the following student learning outcomes:

• Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
• Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
• Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
• Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
• Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
• Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions

Annual student enrollment and graduation data

Data provided by NAU’s Office of Strategic Planning, Institutional Research, & Analytics (SPIRA)

Notes:

• * 4th year students include all those with 90 credit hours or more except post baccalaureate students (PB)
• ** Number of master’s students include all disciplines because both master’s programs are interdisciplinary within engineering and computer science. The number for computer science oriented students currently averages about 7 students and 3 graduates.