The Computer Science Department offers a program of study that leads to the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Computer Science (CS). You can meet the requirements of the CS major by choosing one of two concentrations: Computer Science, and Information Systems.

The Department also offers a minor in Computer Science.

The Computer Science concentration in the CS major is designed for general study of the principles and practice of computing. This concentration includes coursework in theory of computation, computer systems hardware and software, programming, algorithms, networks, and software engineering. You may choose electives in areas such as computer games, information security, artificial intelligence and robotics, and compiler design. You should consider this concentration if you want to keep your options open to employment prospects across the entire computing profession or if you plan to enter graduate school.

The Information Systems concentration in the CS major is particularly suitable for students who are interested in the design and deployment of business and e-commerce applications, in information technology project management, and in technology support. This concentration includes coursework in computer systems software, programming, networks, data base systems, and software engineering, as well as basic courses leading to a minor in Business Administration. You should consider this concentration if you are interested in business applications or in a career in computing/networking infrastructure.

The minor in CS is appropriate for students who wish to combine the study of computer science with a major in a closely related area (such as mathematics or a physical science) or who are interested in understanding the basics of computer science without committing to it as a major.

Students can receive an engineering double degree with SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson University. Students completing this 3/2 degree program receive a Bachelor of Arts degree from SUNY Potsdam and a Bachelor of Science degree from Clarkson University. The Computer Engineering and Software Engineering programs at Clarkson University are particularly appropriate for students interested in computer science. If you wish to pursue this double degree, you must apply to Clarkson University as well as to SUNY Potsdam. See the SUNY Potsdam Undergraduate Catalog for more information.

Consult the Computer Science entry in the SUNY Potsdam Undergraduate Catalog for details.