Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at California State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of computer technology. This degree provides a solid foundation in the fundamental concepts of computer science, including programming, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, and systems analysis. Students will gain practical experience through hands-on projects and laboratory work, enabling them to develop the problem-solving skills necessary for success in industry or graduate studies. The curriculum incorporates courses in software engineering, database management, operating systems, and cybersecurity, reflecting the diverse applications of computer science in today's digital world. In addition, students are encouraged to specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer graphics, or network security, allowing for a tailored educational experience aligned with their interests and career goals. The program also emphasizes teamwork, communication, and ethical issues related to computing, preparing graduates to work effectively in collaborative environments and make responsible technologic decisions. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members, students benefit from a supportive academic environment that fosters innovation and academic excellence. The program incorporates internship opportunities and partnerships with industry leaders, providing students with real-world experience and professional networking opportunities. Graduates of this program go on to pursue successful careers in software development, systems analysis, data analysis, cybersecurity, and other technological fields, or continue their education at the graduate level. The Computer Science degree at CSU equips students with the technical expertise and critical thinking skills necessary to thrive in a competitive global economy driven by technology.

The program director may grant up to 9 credits for graduate Computer Science courses taken at CSUCI outside of the MSCS program or from another university if:

the university is accredited,

the student scored B or better,

the course was taken in the last five years, and

the student provides an official transcript.

The actual number of credits assigned by the director of the program is determined by comparing the courses taken elsewhere to equivalent courses offered by CSUCI.

After enrolling into COMP597 Master Thesis, you will work with your supervisor until the supervisor decides that your research and the thesis document are ready for a defense before your thesis committee. You will go through numerous revisions of your work, as not only the core research, but also the presentation of the results is important. It is expected that your work will be publishable, so your supervisor may ask you to write a summary of the work in a form of a conference or journal paper. A paper is not a required element of your thesis, however.

After your supervisor instructs you to go ahead with the distribution of the thesis, you need to distribute the drafts to all members of the committee. At this time, your supervisor should schedule the defense giving the committee approximately one month to review your thesis.

For defense, you will have to prepare roughly one-hour presentation that will be open to the public. It should consist of the following segment as applicable:

introduction,

demonstration if available and feasible,

analysis of the results,

conclusions,

future,

Q&A.

After the presentation, in a session closed to public, the committee will ask some questions relevant to your thesis. Next, you will be asked to leave the room, so the committee can confer behind the closed door the overall quality of your thesis. After that relatively short meeting you will be asked to come back and the outome will be communicated to you by the chair of the committee. The possible outcomes of the defense are:

accept with no changes,

accept with minor changes,

accept with major changes,

reject.

If your work is accepted with no changes or with minor changes, and all other requirements for the graduation have been met, then you will be granted the title of Master of Science in Computer Science. A request for minor changes will be handled between you and your supervisor. If you are asked to make major changes to your work, then you will have to re-submit a revised copy of the thesis to the committee for another review. In such case, your degree will have to wait until the committee accepts the changes. If the committee rejects the thesis, you will have to select a new research topic and a supervisor, and repeat the whole process satisfying the continuous registration requirement.

All members of the examination committee must sign the acceptance form after the deliberations. Subsequently, the Dean of the Extended University must sign the acceptance form as well on behalf of the University. The chair of the examination committee must deliver the acceptance page to the Extended University Office.

To obtain the degree, an MS Computer Science student must:

complete minimum 32 units of graduate coursework including:

24 units of graduate coursework with at least 18 units designated as “COMP”; the remaining 6 units may be “COMP” or another graduate designation; e.g., “MATH” or “PHYS”; at least 15 units must be taken while matriculated at CSUCI,

minimum 2 units of COMP599,

minimum 6 units of COMP597,

complete each course with grade of B or better,

defend a thesis with a passing grade (“ACCEPT”) as evidenced by a formal report (the first three pages of the thesis) from the examination committee.

The Computer Science program at California State University offers a variety of financial aid options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective and current students can apply for federal and state financial aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is essential for determining eligibility for grants, work-study opportunities, and loans. The university also participates in state programs such as the Cal Grant, which provides need-based awards to California residents. In addition to federal and state aid, students may qualify for scholarships specifically designated for computer science majors, which are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and extracurricular activities. California State University also offers institutional scholarships that are available to undergraduate and graduate students, sometimes requiring separate applications or nominations. Graduate students in the computer science program can explore assistantship opportunities, such as teaching or research assistantships, which not only provide a stipend but may also include tuition waivers or reductions. External scholarship programs from private foundations, industry partners, and professional organizations related to technology and computer science are also available and can be an important source of funding. The university's financial aid office provides counseling and resources to help students identify and apply for these various funding options. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek part-time employment opportunities on campus or within the local community to supplement their income during their studies. Loan options, including federal Direct Loans, are available for students who need additional funding. The university promotes responsible borrowing and offers financial literacy programs to help students manage their finances effectively. Overall, the financial support framework for Computer Science students at California State University is designed to make higher education accessible and affordable, with multiple pathways for financial assistance tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at California State University provides students with a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of computing, programming, algorithms, and software development. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in a variety of fields including software engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, data analysis, and computer systems design. Students are introduced to core subjects such as programming languages (Python, Java, C++), data structures, computer architecture, operating systems, and discrete mathematics. In addition to technical skills, the program emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork through project-based learning and collaborative assignments.

The curriculum typically includes courses in database management, software engineering, web development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and network security. Practical experience is often gained through laboratories, capstone projects, internships, and cooperative education opportunities, which facilitate real-world learning and industry exposure. The program aims to foster both theoretical understanding and applied skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to adapt to the rapid technological changes in the computing industry.

Students also have opportunities to participate in research activities, hackathons, and industry partnerships, enhancing their learning experience and networking opportunities. The Computer Science program at California State University is designed to be flexible, offering electives and specialization options that allow students to tailor their education towards areas such as cybersecurity, software development, or data science. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level positions in a broad range of computing careers or for further study in graduate programs.

The program is accredited by relevant bodies ensuring educational quality and standards. Students benefit from the university’s dedicated faculty, modern facilities, and strong ties with Silicon Valley and the tech industry. After completing the program, graduates are expected to have a solid foundation in both theoretical principles and practical skills necessary for success in the rapidly evolving field of computer science, as well as the ability to pursue lifelong learning and professional development in this dynamic discipline.