Department of Computer Sciences

Steve Nordstrom, Associate Professor and Academic Chair

Dwayne Towell, Associate Professor
Bryan Crawley, Associate Professor

The Department of Computer Sciences houses four academic programs: computer science, computer science and mathematics, game development, and software engineering. These programs encompass student learning and engagement in all aspects of the design, creation, and delivery of innovative and accessible software.

Career Opportunities

Application programmers
Mobile and game developers
Software engineers
Start-up company partners
Technological research scientists

Program Educational Objectives

The CCT expects that its computer science graduates will, within a few years of graduation:

have professional careers in industry or academia or advance in graduate studies;
apply knowledge and skills to solve problems effectively and efficiently, contributing to the technical advancement of the discipline;
conduct themselves with integrity and incorporate proper ethical considerations in their work;
continue to seek knowledge to thrive in an increasingly globalized society;
effectively lead, work and communicate in cross functional teams;
serve their communities, whether locally, nationally, or globally.

Computer Science Majors

The computer science major and minor provide the opportunity to explore the theoretical and scientific aspects of computing. The program provides preparation both for employment and for graduate programs in computing.

Computer science is mathematically rigorous and spans the range from theory through programming to cutting-edge development of computing solutions. The computer science major, or degree program, is broad, rigorous and structured in a way that supports in-depth and systematic study of algorithmic processes-their theory, analysis, design, efficiency, implementation and application. It trains students to think creatively and logically to solve large and complex problems and to communicate with clarity and precision. It sets the stage for graduate study or immediate employment in a wide variety of careers in scientific research, industry, business and government and is an attractive major for the incoming freshman and also for the continuing student who is considering a new field of study. It is the ideal major for the student who is passionate about developing the ability to:

find elegant solutions to problems;
use mathematical analysis and logical rigor to evaluate such solutions;
model complex problems through the use of abstractions, attention to details and hidden assumptions;
recognize variants of the same problem in different settings;
retarget known efficient solutions to problems in new settings;
adapt to new technologies and new ideas; and
devise new and better ways of using computers to address particular challenges.

The computer science minor introduces the concepts of data organization and software construction and gives the student a basis to continue further study. The minor is a good partner for any of the majors offered in the Raymond B. Jones College of Engineering as well as several majors in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Computer Science and Mathematics

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics offers a heavy dose of both the computational and mathematical aspects of the computing sciences. Among our most rigorous undergraduate degree programs, this option allows students to study advanced topics in computer science and mathematics in preparation for top-tier graduate study or premier industry and R&D placements.

Game Development

The Bachelor of Science in Game Development degree program allows students to study and explore the creation of games and game software at a level of rigor expected from a traditional computer science program. An amalgamation of computer science, game design, artificial intelligence, game theory, computer graphics, simulation, and advanced mathematics, this program offers students true insight into the knowledge areas required to create modern games and game software. Students will explore games as an artistic and expressive medium, game theory, principles of game design, game critique and evaluation, game development engines, graphics and sound, emergent gameplay, the business of creating games, collaborative development, and gaming with a purpose.

Software Engineering

The B.S. in Software Engineering degree program has been created in response to the growing importance of software to the national infrastructure and the rapid rise in demand for professional software engineers. The hiring outlook for software engineers is favorable, thanks largely to new, exciting technology like smart phones, tablet applications and cloud (online-hosted) software. Likewise, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job opportunities in the field of software engineering will continue to expand through and a bachelor’s degree will be a prerequisite for many of these positions.

The program is a multidisciplinary university degree which draws on the strengths of existing Lipscomb University programs in computer science, information technology and mathematics. It provides a curriculum that encompasses behavioral and technical aspects of software engineering, focusing on the most advanced practices, including the equally critical human factor in software development, testing and validation for producing high quality, sophisticated and dependable software products. The program is designed specifically for students interested in a range of application domains, including game development, database systems and security, information technology entrepreneurship, mobile computing, programming theory and applications, and Web application development.

The minor in software engineering combines a core programming sequence with a selection of software engineering courses to prepare students for a career in which software development skills and software project planning and execution may be required.

Program of Study Requirements

Major

Minor

Other Program of Study Requirements

Computer Science and Mathematics Major

Department of Computer Sciences

Program of Study Requirements

Courses