Computer Science

• Department Information
• Program Description
• Career Possibilities
• Features
• Preparation
• Major Requirements (B.S.)
• Options
• Other Degree Requirements
• Minor Requirements
• Undergraduate Courses
• Footnote

Department Information

Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
College of Science
Office: North Science 335
Phone: (510) 885-3414
E-mail: mathcs@csueastbay.edu
Website: http://www20.csueastbay.edu/csci/departments/math-cs/index.html
Student Service Center: North Science 337
Phone: (510) 885-4011

Professors Emeriti
Edward A. Billard, Ph.D. University of California, San Diego
James S. Daley, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
Edna E. Reiter, Ph.D. University of Cincinnati

Associate Professors Emeriti
Dan Jurca, Ph.D. Northwestern University
Farzan Roohparvar, Ph.D. Iowa State University

Professors
Kevin A. Brown, Ph.D. University of South Carolina
Kevin E. Callahan, Ph.D. University of California, San Diego
Leann Christianson, Ph.D. University of South Carolina
James S. Daley, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
Julie S. Glass, Ph.D. University of California, Santa Cruz
Lynne L. Grewe, Ph.D. Purdue University
Kathleen Hann, Ph.D. University of California, Davis
C. Matthew Johnson (Chair), Ph.D. College of William and Mary
Gary E. Lippman, Ph.D. University of California, Riverside
Michael K. Mahoney, Ph.D. University of California, Santa Barbara
Massoud Malek, Ph.D. University of Houston
Istvan Simon, Ph.D. Stanford University
Stuart Smith, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
William Thibault, Ph.D. Georgia Institute of Technology
Donald L. Wolitzer, Ph.D. Northeastern University
Ytha Y. Yu, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley

Associate Professors
Levent Ertaul, Ph.D. University of Sussex (United Kingdom)
Chung-Hsing Ou Yang, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
David Yang, Ph.D. Columbia University
Shirley Yap, Ph.D. University of Pennsylvania

Assistant Professors
Roger W. Doering, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
Julia Olkin, Ph.D. Rice University
Ellen Veomett, Ph.D. University of Michigan

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Program Description

Programs in Computer Science at Cal State East Bay are designed to prepare students for employment or for advanced study in computer science. The student's course of study will provide a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge as well as experience with practical applications in hardware and software.

Computer Science is the study of computation and of methods for addressing, processing, storing, and transmitting information. It encompasses a broad perspective that includes what a computer is, its uses and applications, and theoretical approaches to what can be computed. The core curriculum in Computer Science, involving a blend of theory and practice, offers opportunities for problem solving in many areas and provides experience with a variety of computers, computer languages, and software packages. A typical student's experience can include scientific programming, language design and implementation, file handling and database design, data communication and networking, artificial intelligence, hardware design, and graphic implementations ranging from interface design to artistic presentations.

A strong mathematical background is important in Computer Science. High school students who are interested in computer science should take as much mathematics as possible, particularly algebra, trigonometry, and precalculus. Community college students who are planning to transfer to Cal State East Bay should take a two-course calculus sequence, linear algebra, discrete structures, a sequence of courses in some programming language (such as C, C++, Java), and a course in computer organization and assembly language.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a B.S. in Computer Science from Cal State East Bay possess technical competence to:

1. design and implement computer programs;
2. use data structures in program design;
3. know and use modern programming techniques; and 
4. use software engineering design principles.

Students possess a fundamental understanding of Computer Science theory including:

1. mathematical problem solving skills;
2. design and analysis of algorithms;
3. understanding of computer architecture and operating system concepts; 
4. analysis of programming languages.

Students:

1. are able to work effectively as team members;
2. have an understanding of their professional and ethical responsibilities and appreciate the impact of computer science solutions in the societal context; and
3. can communicate effectively, both in written and oral form.

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Career Possibilities

• Computer Network Support Employee
• Computer Operations Manager
• Computer Sales Representative
• Customer Support Employee
• Database Applications Program Analyst or Designer
• Graphics Specialist
• Programmer or Administrator
• Programming Team Member, Specializing in Design, Testing, or Documentation
• Scientific Applications Programmer
• Software Engineer Systems Analyst
• Systems Manager or Programmer
• Technical Writer
• Teacher/Professor

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Features

The University supports Computer Science with a variety of resources. Smart classrooms are equipped with at least one computer and projector. Several instructional classrooms also have student computers. Students may use computers in open-access labs; there is wireless access. Lab and classroom computers may be equipped with a variety of operating systems. Student dorm rooms are equipped high-speed Internet access.

The College of Science sponsors CompCore, a small scale parallel processing facility with facilities for immersive 3-D graphics, scientific modeling, remote access to scientific instruments, and other facilities for experimentation and research. In addition, some computer science faculty have small labs dedicated to research and to use by students in their classes.

Each year the department offers a number of scholarships covering a portion of fees for the subsequent year. Applications may be obtained from the department during Winter quarter.

A booklet containing sample schedules, as well as further information about the computer science major, is available in the Mathematics/Computer Science Student Service Center (North Science 337). This information may be obtained electronically at http://www.mcs.csueastbay.edu.

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Preparation

For Advanced Placement course equivalencies, see Registration chapter.

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Major Requirements (B.S.)

Many students pursue a double major in Mathematics and Computer Science, since a number of courses are common to both majors and can be double-counted. Another popular combination is a major in computer science and a minor in mathematics.
 
Please consult an advisor in your major department for clarification and interpretation of your major requirements. Computer Science majors may complete the following 84-unit program or may elect to complete a 92-unit option in Computer Engineering, Networking and Data Communications, or Software Engineering (see "Options" section). The B.S. degree requires a total of 180 units.
 
All Computer Science majors must complete each of the following courses in sections I, II, and III with a grade of "C" or better.

1. Mathematics (20 units)
   Five courses are required:
   • MATH 1304, 1305 Calculus I, II (8)
   • MATH 2101 Elements of Linear Algebra (4)
   • MATH 2150 Discrete Structures (4)
   Choice of:
   • STAT 3401 Introduction to Probability Theory I (4) or
   • STAT 3502 Statistical Inference I (4) or
   • STAT/ENGR 3601 Introductory Statistics and Probability for Science and Engineering (4). STAT/ENGR 3601 is recommended.
   A student who has recently taken a pre-calculus course in high school should be prepared to begin the calculus sequence. A student with three years of high school mathematics, including two years of algebra and one year of geometry, should be prepared to take MATH 1130, or possibly MATH 1300. Students who are unsure about what mathematics course to take should call the department office for advice.
   
   It should be noted that students may not enroll in any baccalaureate level mathematics or computer science class unless they have met the Entry Level Mathematics (ELM) requirement or are exempt from it. Information about the ELM is available from the Testing Office at (510) 885-3661.
2. Lower Division Computer Science (16 units)
   Required courses:
   • CS 1160 Introduction to Computer Science I (4)
   • CS 2360 Introduction to Computer Science II (4)
   • CS 2370 Introduction to Computer Science III (4)
   • CS 2430 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming (4)
   Although CS 1160 is the required introductory course for Computer Science majors, it may be difficult for students with no experience using computers. Students who do not know how to use a word processor or who have no knowledge of computer files and operating systems should consider taking CS 1020 (Introduction to Computers) before taking CS 1160.
   
   Students who have completed a multi-quarter course in C, C++, Java, or Pascal at another college should consult the Mathematics/Computer Science Department; they may be able to substitute their previous coursework for CS 1160 and possibly CS 2360 and 2370.
3. Upper Division Computer Science: Required Courses (20 units)
   • CS 3120 Programming Language Concepts (4)
   • CS 3240 Data Structures and Algorithms (4)
   • CS 3340 Introduction to Object Oriented Programming and Design (4)
   • CS 3430 Computer Architecture (4)
   • CS 4560 Operating Systems (4)
4. Upper Division Computer Science: Concentration (16 units)
   The selection of all elective Computer Science courses is important in giving the major a coherence, with depth in key areas. These electives must be chosen with the assistance and approval of a faculty advisor.
   
   A student must take four of the following eight courses:
   • CS 3560 Introduction to Systems Programming (4)
   • CS 3590 Data Communications and Networking (4)
   • CS 4660 Database Architecture (4)
   • CS 4110 Compiler Design (4)
   • CS 4170 Theory of Automata (4)
   • CS 4245 Analysis of Algorithms (4)
   • CS 4310 Software Engineering I (4)
   • MATH/CS 3750 Numerical Analysis I (4)
5. Electives (12 units)
   Any of the following courses may be used in meeting this requirement. However, at least 4 units (other than units from CS 3898) must be from courses with the CS prefix.
   1. Any course(s) from IV not used in meeting the requirements in that category.
   2. Any upper division course in Computer Science except those used in meeting requirements III or IV. No more than 4 units of CS 4900, Independent Study, and no more than 4 units of CS 3898, Cooperative Education, may be applied to the Computer Science major requirements.
   3. Any graduate course in Computer Science (except CS 6000 and CS 6909).
   4. Any upper division course in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science or the Department of Statistics that is applicable to the BS degree major in Mathematics.
   5. Any courses from the following list:
      • PHIL 3002 Modern Logic (4)
      • PHYS/ENGR 3280 Electronics (4)
      • ENGR 3010 Electric Circuit Theory II (4)
   The student is responsible for meeting all prerequisites for any of these courses. The courses in (E) have prerequisites that are not included among major requirements.
   
   Note: Students contemplating graduate study in Computer Science should consult with a faculty advisor early in their programs. They should be sure to include an adequate number of theory courses in their major and should have an extensive background in Mathematics.

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Options

The major with one of the following three options consists of 92 units. In addition to the 20 units of mathematics courses (Section I), the 16 units of lower division computer science courses (Section II), and the 20 units of upper division computer science courses (Section III) required for a B.S. degree major in computer science, students choosing an option in Computer Engineering, Networking and Data Communications, or Software Engineering must complete an additional 36 units. See below.

1. Computer Engineering (36 units)
   The Option in Computer Engineering emphasizes the design of computer hardware and software and the close interaction between the two. It is an area of study with many issues, ranging from the design and development of large scale systems requiring an integration of hardware and software, to the design and deployment of special purpose devices used for control of physical processes. The option provides a foundation of knowledge for immediate application, but also provides a background for further study in the field.
   1. Computer Engineering Concentration (24 units)
      • CS 3432 Digital Design Lab (4)
      • CS 3434 Microprocessor Lab (4)
      • CS 3590 Data Communications and Networking (4)
      • CS 4435 Computer Architecture II (4)
      • CS 4432 VLSI Circuit Design (4)
      • PHYS 2702 Heat, Sound, Electricity and Magnetism (4)
   2. Computer Engineering Electives (12 units)
      Choice of three courses from the following:
      • CS 3560 Introduction to Systems Programming (4)
      • CS 4310 Software Engineering I (4)
      • CS 4590 Computer Networks (4)
      • CS 4594 Broadband Networks and Communications (4)
      • CS 4596 Wireless and Mobile Networking (4)
      • CS 4840 Computer Graphics (4)
2. Networking and Data Communications (36 units)
   Data communication and networking comprise an important, broad subfield of computer science. The Networking and Data Communications Option provides a concentration in the study of electronic networks. It emphasizes the analysis, design, and management of software that controls electronic networks. This option will enhance students' chances for immediate employment in the area while also preparing them for a flexible long-term career.
   1. Upper Division Computer Science: Concentration (16 units)
      • CS 3560 Introduction to Systems Programming (4)
      • Choice of three courses from the following:
        • CS 4660 Database Architecture (4)
        • CS 4110 Compiler Design (4)
        • CS 4170 Theory of Automata (4)
        • CS 4245 Analysis of Algorithms (4)
        • CS 4310 Software Engineering I (4)
        • MATH/CS 3750 Numerical Analysis I (4)
   2. Networking Concentration (8 units)
      • CS 3590 Data Communications and Networking (4)
      • CS 4590 Computer Networks (4)
   3. Networking and Data Communication Electives (12 units)
      Three courses chosen from:
      • CS 3520 Web Site Development (4)
      • CS 4525 Principles of Network Security (4)
      • CS 4592 Network Operations and Administration (4)
      • CS 4594 Broadband Networks and Communications (4)
      • CS 4596 Wireless and Mobile Networking (4)
3. Software Engineering (36 units)
   Software engineering is an important subfield of computer science and is an area of intense activity, both in research and in applications. The Software Engineering Option emphasizes code development as an engineering science and gives students the understanding and skills necessary to participate in the systematic analysis and development of large, real-world software projects.
   1. Upper Division Computer Science: Concentration (16 units)
      Choice of four courses from the following:
      • CS 3560 Introduction to Systems Programming (4) (if not used in category (c))
      • CS 3590 Data Communications and Networking (4)
      • CS 4110 Compiler Design (4)
      • CS 4170 Theory of Automata (4)
      • CS 4245 Analysis of Algorithms (4)
      • MATH/CS 3750 Numerical Analysis I (4)
   2. Software Engineering Concentration (12 units)
      • CS 4310 Software Engineering I (4)
      • CS 4311 Software Engineering II (4)
      • CS 4320 Software Testing and Quality Assurance (4)
   3. Software Engineering Electives (8 units)
      Choice of two courses from the following:
      • CS 3520 Web Site Development (4)
      • CS 3560 Introduction to Systems Programming (4) (if not used in category (a))
      • CS 4110 Compiler Design (4) (if not used in category (a))
      • CS 4330 Building Secure Software (4)
      • CS 4660 Database Architecture (4)
      • CS 4835 Human-Computer Interaction (4)
      • CS 4840 Computer Graphics (4)
      • CS 4865 Graphical User Interface Programming Using a Rapid Application Development Tool (4)

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Other Degree Requirements

In addition to major requirements, every student must also complete the University requirements for graduation which are described in the Baccalaureate Degree Requirements chapter in the front of this catalog. These include the General Education-Breadth requirements; the second composition (ENGL 1002) requirement; the cultural groups/women requirement; the performing arts/activities requirement; the U.S. history, U.S. Constitution, and California state and local government requirement; the University Writing Skills Requirement; and the residence, unit, and grade point average requirements.

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Minor Requirements

Students majoring in other fields may wish to complete a coherent pattern of work in Computer Science or Software Development for the purpose of expanding their employment and educational opportunities.

Computer Science Minor (36 units)

1. Lower Division Mathematics (8 units)
   • MATH 1304 Calculus I (4)
   • MATH 2150 Discrete Structures (4)
2. Lower Division Computer Science (16 units)
   • CS 1160 Introduction to Computer Science I (4)
   • CS 2360 Introduction to Computer Science II (4)
   • CS 2370 Introduction to Computer Science III (4)
   • CS 2430 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming (4)
3. Upper Division Computer Science (12 units)
   1. Two courses from the following list:
      • CS 3120 Programming Language Concepts (4)
      • CS 3240 Data Structures and Algorithms (4)
      • CS 3430 Computer Architecture (4)
      • CS 4560 Operating Systems (4)
   2. One upper division Computer Science elective.
      This may be a third course from the list in (A) above or any course from category IV of the requirements for the major in Computer Science.

Software Development Minor (36 units)

1. Required Courses (28 units)
   • CS 1160 Introduction to Computer Science I (4)
   • CS 2360 Introduction to Computer Science II (4)
   • CS 2370 Introduction to Computer Science III (4)
   • MATH 1304 Calculus I (4)
   • MATH 2150 Discrete Structures (4)
   • CS 3240 ¹ Data Structures and Algorithms (4)
   • CS 4310 Software Engineering I (4)
2. Choice of two courses from the following (8 units):
   • CS 3340 Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming and Design (4)
   • CS 3520 Web Site Development (4)
   • CS 3560 Introduction to Systems Programming (4)
   • CS 4660 Database Architecture (4)

Mathematics Minor

Students majoring in Computer Science find it relatively easy to obtain a minor in Mathematics because there is a significant overlap in lower division requirements for the CS major/Math minor. To accomplish this, a student should take MATH 2304 and 3000, one of the courses from the list CS 4170, 4245, STAT 3401, 3502, plus one more upper division mathematics elective. See undergraduate Mathematics chapter for details.

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Undergraduate Courses

Mathematics courses offered by the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science are fully described in the Undergraduate Mathematics section of this catalog. (Note: In order to enroll in any baccalaureate-level Mathematics or Computer Science course, students must satisfy the Entry-Level Mathematics (ELM) requirement.)

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Footnote

1. Has a prerequisite not included in the minor.  

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