About the Department
Computer science is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses a broad range of topics. At one end of the spectrum, computer science focuses on the theoretical capabilities of computers and on the properties of general problems and algorithms.
At the other end, computer science deals with techniques for the design and construction of systems and application software used by our society.
Computer science students not only design, implement, test and maintain individual software applications, but also develop and manage larger systems that integrate a wide range of components. Students graduating from this program find themselves working in careers such as software analysts, database designers, software engineers, systems managers and programmer analysts.
UA’s Department of Computer Science offers degrees at all levels – bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate. Graduates of UA’s Computer Science program are prepared for admission to graduate study or for immediate employment in business, industry or government positions involving computer systems and techniques.
Departmental History
The Department of Computer Science has been in existence for more than 30 years. The bachelor of science degree was approved on June 2, 1978, and the first degree awarded in August 1981. The master of science degree was approved on April 17, 1976, and the first degree awarded in 1978. The doctor of philosophy was formally established on Aug. 30, 1991.
The Department has grown significantly from its initial size of seven faculty members and one program assistant. We now have 15 tenured/tenure-track research faculty members, eight instructors, numerous research engineers and a staff of four. We currently enroll about 250 undergraduate and 75 graduate students. During the past year, UA computer science faculty generated more than 70 journal articles or conference publications along with $6 million in new research funding. We also taught more than 8,000 students in our computer literacy courses.
Our main research focus continues to be in three primary areas: software engineering; systems, including networking and database; and foundations.