The rapid spread of computers and information technology continues to generate a need for highly trained workers to design and develop new hardware and software systems and to adopt and integrate increasingly sophisticated technologies into existing systems [see US Government Bureau of Labor Statistics]. Working with such rapidly changing technology requires an increasing level of skill and education on the part of employees. In addition to technical knowledge, companies want professionals who have communication and other interpersonal skills and can adapt their problem-solving skills to different situations.

Students are also given opportunities, both inside and outside the classroom, to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Students take applied computer science courses/tracks relative to areas such as bioinformatics, business and psychology. Through service-learning, independent research projects, and internships, they also have the opportunity to work one-on-one with faculty in specialized areas, such as:

• digital image processing
• computer assistive technology
• game technology
• embedded systems
• database design
• web programming
• software engineering
• networking and security