Major in Computer Science, Computer Science Education Concentration
Program Overview
Major in Computer Science, Computer Science Education Concentration
The Computer Science major with a concentration in Computer Science Education is designed to prepare students for a career in teaching computer science at the K-12 level. The program combines coursework in computer science and education, providing students with a deep understanding of computer science concepts and pedagogical practices.
Overview
Computer science is the study of algorithms and software systems, including their theory, analysis, design, efficiency, implementation, maintenance, and application. The Computer Science Education concentration focuses on the intersection of computer science and education, preparing students to teach computer science in K-12 settings.
Requirements
- A minimum grade of C (2.000) is required in CO 150 and in all CS, DSCI, MATH, and STAT courses which are required for graduation.
- The program requires a total of 120 credits, with at least 42 credits being upper-division (300- to 400-level).
- The curriculum includes coursework in computer science, education, and mathematics, as well as student teaching and practicum experiences.
Coursework
The program includes the following coursework:
- Freshman year:
- CO 150: College Composition (GT-CO2)
- CS 201/PHIL 201: Ethical Computing Systems (GT-AH3)
- MATH 156 or 160: Mathematics for Computational Science I (GT-MA1) or Calculus for Physical Scientists I (GT-MA1)
- Select one group from the following:
- Group A: CS 150A or 150B, CS 162 or 164
- Group B: CS 152, CS 162 or 164
- Group C: CS 163, Arts and Humanities
- Sophomore year:
- CS 165: CS2--Data Structures
- CS 220: Discrete Structures and the Applications
- EDUC 275: Schools, Society, and Self (GT-SS3)
- Select one course from the following: STAT 301, STAT 302A, STAT 307, STAT 315
- Junior year:
- CS 314: Software Engineering
- CS 320: Algorithms--Theory and Practice
- CS 370: Operating Systems
- EDUC 331: Educational Technology and Assessment
- EDUC 350: Instruction I-Individualization/Management
- EDUC 386: Practicum-Instruction I
- Senior year:
- EDCT 465: Methods and Materials in Technology Education
- EDCT 485: Student Teaching
- EDUC 450: Instruction II-Standards and Assessment
- EDUC 486E: Practicum: Instruction II
- EDUC 493A: Seminar: Professional Relations
- Two CS Education Standards Courses (see course list)
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in the areas of software design and development, computing systems, and algorithmic analysis.
- Work effectively in groups to develop computational solutions to complex problems.
- Communicate ideas effectively, both generally and specifically, with regard to technology and computing.
- Demonstrate strong pedagogical practices related to education and computational thinking.
- Develop lesson plans related to computer science with artifact generation and statistical analysis of artifacts and student performance.
- Demonstrate the variety of fields in which computer science is applied, with direct knowledge in fields relating to the CO Standards for CS Education.
Potential Occupations
Upon completing this program, students can pursue careers as K-12 computer science/technology education teachers, or attend graduate school in computer science. Students may also find professional computer-related employment.
Distinctive Requirements for Degree Program
To prepare for the first semester, students must maintain a C (2.000) or better in CO 150 and in all CS, DSCI, MATH, and STAT courses which are required for graduation. The curriculum for the Computer Science major assumes students enter college prepared to take calculus. Entering students who are not prepared to take calculus will need to fulfill pre-calculus requirements in the first semester.
Semester-by-Semester Plan
A detailed semester-by-semester plan is provided, outlining the critical and recommended courses for each semester. This plan ensures that students complete the required coursework and meet the program's learning objectives.
Program Total Credits
The program requires a total of 120 credits, with at least 42 credits being upper-division (300- to 400-level).