Table of Contents - Hartwick College
Table of Contents - Hartwick College
Table of Contents - Hartwick College
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Computer and Information Science<br />
An understanding <strong>of</strong> computers, as well as <strong>of</strong> the world in which they are<br />
being used, will be essential in the technologically and culturally complex<br />
world <strong>of</strong> the 21st century. As computers become valuable tools in nearly<br />
every field, it is important that those involved in their development and<br />
use understand not only the technology but the human needs it can serve<br />
and the implications for society. The study <strong>of</strong> computers within the<br />
framework <strong>of</strong> a liberal arts and sciences education can provide this<br />
understanding. In addition, students majoring in other disciplines will<br />
find a knowledge <strong>of</strong> computers useful in their future careers—whether<br />
they plan to become educators or scientists, artists or economists. And<br />
working with computers can strengthen logic and problem-solving skills<br />
that will prove valuable in both their personal and pr<strong>of</strong>essional lives.<br />
The Department <strong>of</strong> Computer and Information Science <strong>of</strong>fers major<br />
programs in computer science and information science, as well as a minor<br />
in each area. While the two major programs differ in focus, each provides<br />
students with a solid technical background and a broad, general<br />
foundation that prepares them for a variety <strong>of</strong> career opportunities rather<br />
than one specific job. At the same time, their study <strong>of</strong> computers within<br />
the context <strong>of</strong> a broader liberal arts and sciences education prepares<br />
majors to evaluate the potential and limitations <strong>of</strong> future advances in<br />
technology, and to adapt to changes within their pr<strong>of</strong>ession.<br />
The major in computer science emphasizes the scientific and<br />
mathematical dimensions <strong>of</strong> the field. It is for the student who wants to<br />
work on the cutting edge in developing the s<strong>of</strong>tware necessary to run the<br />
computers <strong>of</strong> tomorrow. Students develop pr<strong>of</strong>iciency in programming by<br />
learning several commonly used programming languages, and they<br />
develop a broad and deep understanding <strong>of</strong> operating systems, computer<br />
architecture, programming languages and advanced programming<br />
techniques. Electives are chosen from exciting topics such as computer<br />
graphics, parallel processing, artificial intelligence, microprocessors,<br />
computer networks, and optimization techniques.<br />
The major in information science is geared toward students who<br />
want to use computers effectively in the modern business world. It is<br />
designed to produce skilled and creative individuals to manage the<br />
information, computer systems and people needed by businesses in the<br />
21 st century. Building on a solid foundation in programming, information<br />
science majors learn how to analyze and solve the complex data<br />
processing problems <strong>of</strong> modern organizations. In advanced courses in<br />
systems analysis and design students use advanced computer assisted<br />
s<strong>of</strong>tware<br />
engineering (CASE) tools which automate the s<strong>of</strong>tware design process.<br />
Elective courses are chosen from a diverse list including Web<br />
programming, computer networks, programming languages, artificial<br />
intelligence and data structures. Courses in information science<br />
emphasize projects where students learn by doing real-life projects.<br />
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