Computer science is one of the most expansive, innovative, and adaptive areas of knowledge today. Computer literacy has become essential for all aspects work and study. Here at the University of Illinois at Springfield, our Department of Computer Science prepares students for challenging careers as professionals in the public and private sectors. Our program offers both a bachelor of science (scientiae baccalaureus, S.B. or B.S.) and a master of science (scientiae magister, S.M. or M.S.) in the field of computer science.

     The bachelor of science degree is designed to provide the graduate with a strong foundation in computer science and related disciplines. The curricula encourages students to become knowledgeable of cutting-edge techniques and practices, yet ensures that they learn the requisite core skills and theoretical foundations that have historically driven computer science. Graduates of the bachelor of science program have been successful in earning advanced degrees and in pursuing careers in research and application-oriented positions in business, industry, government, and education. The variety of course offerings and rigorous degree requirements ensure that bachelor of science graduates acquire knowledge necessary to shape their career goals.

     The master of science degree in computer science is oriented toward software and is most appropriate for candidates interested in the design, analysis, and implementation of software programs.

     Applied study terms in the form of internships are available to undergraduate and graduate students. These rare opportunities for work experience allow the students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. This balance of practice and theory ultimately benefits the students by providing them with an adaptive skill-set to utilize in their future endeavours.

     Students have access to an outstanding variety of computing systems, including a Sun Sparc20 file-server, additional UNIX-based computers, transputers for parallel processing, embedded systems, microcomputers, and a hands-on networking configuration laboratory. Computer laboratories are open evenings and weekends with some systems available 24 hours a day through dial-up or network access.