Computer Science B.S.

Mission: The mission of Computer Science Department is to prepare graduates for diverse, impactful careers in technology while nurturing a Christ-centered approach to leadership and service. We strive to enable all students that take our courses, non-majors and majors alike, to understand the core ideas of, utilize the tools from, and contribute to future advances in computer science. 

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Technical Proficiency: Graduates will demonstrate mastery of core computer science concepts, programming languages, and software development practices, enabling them to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions. 
  2. Problem-Solving Skills: Students will develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills, applying them to identify, analyze, and address real-world computational challenges effectively. 
  3. Ethical and Character Development: Graduates will exhibit ethical conduct and character in their professional and personal lives, grounded in Christian values, as they navigate the ethical dilemmas often encountered in the technology industry. 
  4. Effective Communication: Students will effectively communicate complex technical ideas and solutions to diverse audiences, fostering collaboration and understanding in interdisciplinary settings. 
  5. Professional and Career Readiness: Graduates will be prepared for successful careers in various computer science fields, demonstrating readiness for leadership roles, adaptability to emerging technologies, and a commitment to service-oriented leadership with a Christ-centered approach. 
Core Curriculum Requirements 150
Mathematics Core Requirements20
Computer Science Major Requirements53
General Electives0
Total Units123

Mathematics Core Requirements

Lower Division:
MATH-180CCalculus 14
MATH-181CCalculus II4
MATH-265CIntro to Statistical Methods3
MATH-285Introduction to Advanced Mathematics3
Upper Division:
MATH-300Linear Algebra3
MATH-375Discrete Mathematics3
Total Units20

Computer Science Major Requirements

Lower Division:
CSCI-110CIntroduction to Computer Science4
CSCI-205Cybersecurity3
CSCI-208Java Programming4
CSCI-216Intro to Web Programming4
CSCI-217Database Systems 13
CSCI-218Python Programming4
Upper Division:
CSCI-302Algorithm Design and Applications3
CSCI-305Programming Languages3
CSCI-317Data Structures4
CSCI-325Introduction to Networks3
CSCI-330Introduction to Operating Systems3
CSCI-411Software Engineering 13
CSCI-415Computer Architecture3
CSCI-425Computing Theory3
CSCI-499CComputer Science Capstone3
Elective3
Take 3 units from the following:
Special Topic in Computer Science
Network Security and Digital Crime
Digital Forensics and Investigation
Ug Research Internship Program
Numerical Analysis
Total Units53
1

Number of units required from the Core Curriculum not included in the major requirements below. 

Disclaimer: This sample Four Year Plan is provided as a guide for the recommended sequencing of courses. Vanguard University requires that students complete a minimum of 120 units of required course work as outlined on the Requirements tab in order to receive a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. It is the student's responsibility to confirm with the department the course rotation before enrolling in courses. If applicable, please note the footnotes at the bottom of the page for additional information related to courses listed in a particular year and term. Questions, contact the Department of Physical Sciences and Applied Mathematics. 

Study Abroad Participation: Students interested in participating in the university's Study Abroad programs are encouraged to reach out to the Global Education and Outreach Office for more information and collaboration in their academic course planning. Students using Education and Training Benefits through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs are encouraged to also reach out to the School Certifying Official for more information regarding how benefits can be applied.

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1 Term 1Units
CORE-100C Cornerstone 1
MATH-180C Calculus 1 4
ENGL-120C Persuasive Writing 3
NT-101C New Testament Survey 3
CSCI-110C Introduction to Computer Science 4
 Units15
Year 1 Term 2
MATH-181C Calculus II 4
CSCI-208 Java Programming 4
HIST-PLHDHistory Core Requirement 3
THEO-101C Foundations of Christian Life 3
KINE-148C Lifetime Fitness and Wellness Lecture 3
 Units17
Year 2 Term 1
CSCI-217 Database Systems 1 3
MATH-265C Intro to Statistical Methods 3
CSCI-205 Cybersecurity 3
COMM-201C Speech Composition and Presentation 3
SOC-PLCRSocial Science Core Curriculum Reqm't 3
 Units15
Year 2 Term 2
MATH-285 Introduction to Advanced Mathematics 3
CSCI-218 Python Programming 4
ENGL-220C Researched Writing 3
OT-201C Old Testament Survey 3
SOC-PLCRSocial Science Core Curriculum Reqm't 3
 Units16
Year 3 Term 1
MATH-300 Linear Algebra 3
MATH-375 Discrete Mathematics 3
CSCI-317 Data Structures 4
CSCI-330 Introduction to Operating Systems 3
ENGL-230C Literature and the Human Experience 3
 Units16
Year 3 Term 2
THEO-300C Developing a Christian World View 3
CSCI-302 Algorithm Design and Applications 3
CSCI-305 Programming Languages 3
HIST-PLCR2History Core Requirement (World Civ) 3
FINA-PLCRFine Arts Core Curriculum Requirement 3
 Units15
Year 4 Term 1
PSCI-PLCR2Physics - Phys2/Lab or Elect/Mag 4
CSCI-415 Computer Architecture 3
CSCI-216 Intro to Web Programming 4
CSCI-ELECTCSCI/MATH Elective 3
 Units14
Year 4 Term 2
CSCI-325 Introduction to Networks 3
CSCI-499C Computer Science Capstone 3
CSCI-411 Software Engineering 1 3
CSCI-425 Computing Theory 3
CHIS-400C Christian Heritage 3
 Units15
 Total Units123