Through the development of sophisticated computer systems, processors, and embedded applications, computer scientists have the opportunity to change society in ways unimagined several years ago. A major goal of the Department is the education and training of a diverse body of students who can lead the current information technology revolution. To this end, the computer science program orients students toward the pragmatic aspects of computer science and provides the learning and practices to make them proficient computing professionals. Good engineering is rooted in solid mathematics and science, and grounding in these fundamentals is essential. Provided in the context of the practice of computing, this early grounding forms the basis for an education that outstandingly prepares students for a computing career.
With funding from the National Science Foundation, the Department of Computer Science has designed, developed, and is currently disseminating a curriculum focused on the practice of computing, yet grounded in the mathematical and scientific fundamentals of computer science. The curriculum is structured around the introduction of modern software development techniques in the very beginning courses and is supported by a coordinated set of “closed laboratories.”
In order to provide an environment appropriate to our courses, the department has established several laboratories with more than 150 workstations. These machines have high-resolution graphics and are connected to large file handlers, as well as to the University network. The lab courses expose students to many commercial software tools and systems and are currently introducing modern software development techniques via object-oriented design and implementation in C++ and Java.
The Department of Computer Science co-offers, with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, a degree in Computer Engineering.
Program Objectives Graduates of the Computer Science program at the University of Virginia will have the knowledge, skills and attitudes that will allow them to make tangible contributions, meet new technical challenges, contribute effectively as team members, and be innovators in the design, analysis and application of computer systems.
Grading Policy Majors and minors are required to maintain a C average or better in their CS courses.
Transfer Students in the College of Arts and Sciences with an interest in obtaining a degree in computer science may transfer to the School of Engineering and Applied Science. Like other SEAS students, transfer students must formally apply to, and be approved by, the Department of Computer Science to take the Computer Science program of study. To minimize loss of credit upon transfer, College students must take a rigorous program in mathematics and the sciences. The School of Engineering and Applied Science expects a minimum of 63 credits in the first two years, instead of the 60-credit minimum that is customary in the College of Arts and Sciences. (The additional credits are often completed through summer courses.) Detailed information on curriculum requirements may be obtained from the Office of the Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
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