Computer Related Degree Programs Offered at OSU

Computers are an integral part of our daily lives.  The personal computer and the Internet have made computers available to almost everyone.  Oklahoma State University has five different degree programs that are computer related.  These degrees meet the varying needs and interests of students that are enrolled at OSU. The programs are described below.    

COMPUTER SCIENCE

There are two important parts to a computer. One is the hardware-the computer itself, the monitor, keyboard, and printer. The second part is the software-these are the written series of instructions called the computer program. A computer cannot run without these instructions. The Computer Science degree gives you the background to learn programming and computing skills to prepare you for this second area.

Most jobs in the computer science area require a proficiency in mathematics. Other traits are thinking logically, persistence, and enjoying exacting, analytical work. Computer Science is an exciting and continually changing field. This means continually updating skills and knowledge. Employers are looking for graduates who are technically competent in computer science, who have good communication skills, and who work well with others.  

Computer Science is offered in the College of Arts and Sciences. Most of the required computer classes require extensive programming using languages such as JAVA, UNIX,  C and C++.  

All varieties of companies, both large and small, are looking for employees with computer skills. Computing skills can be combined with other interest areas such as business, natural or social sciences, math, or statistics. The main types of companies that hire computer science graduates include: software manufactures, hardware manufacturers, telecommunications, oil and gas, retail, health, research, transportation, accounting, government, education, electrical, and many others.

The Computer Science degree also prepares students for a Master's or Ph.D. degree in Computer Science. The department also offers a Master's and a Ph.D. degree.   The Computer Science Undergraduate degree and Masters programs are also offered in Tulsa.

For more information on the curriculum, look at the four-year degree plan and flow chart of computer science classes on the Internet at http://www.cs.okstate.edu.   

                                 MANAGEMENT SCIENCE AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS

The major in Management Science and Computer Systems is located in the College of Business. It  is designed to prepare students for careers as staff managers in complex businesses or nonprofit organizations. There is a high demand for persons with advanced quantitative and computer competency with a knowledge of business systems. Many students have a special interest in building concentrations in management systems and computer science. The management science and computer systems program is ideal for this purpose.

Examples of topics covered include managerial decision theory, operations research, systems analysis, management information systems and operations management. The study of management science and computer topics may be combined with advanced work in related disciplines for those with appropriate interests. Management science and computer systems majors typically enter business or public organizations as management systems analysts, computer systems analysts, or management trainees. Many also undertake graduate study to further their professional education.  

                                          MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Management Information Systems focuses on business applications of computing, including analysis, development, implementation, evaluation, and management.  This degree is also in the College of Business.  The major prepares students for professional careers as MIS professionals with an emphasis on both breadth and depth.  Both applications of information technology and understanding of data communication and information flows among the functional areas of business are emphasized.  The continuing integration of the computer and information technology in all aspects of business and the critical need for responsive management information systems has created a strong demand for graduates with expertise in both information systems and business administration. 

The first two years of study involve foundations coursework in mathematics, statistics, and computer science as well as English, accounting, economics, psychology and other courses intended to develop a broad educational background.  The junior and senior years focus on specialized courses in information systems and computer applications in  business, including programming, database management, expert and decision support systems, systems analysis and design,  data communications, management science methods, enterprise resource planning and electronic commerce.  The balanced coverage of both technical and business topics prepares MIS graduates to understand the information needs required for complex decisions and organizations for which information systems are developed, and to create value for their organizations.

                                    ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING

The undergraduate Electrical and Computer Engineering program at Oklahoma State University prepares each graduate for a life-long professional career. It is offered in the College of Engineering.   During the first two years, students complete a carefully designed pre-engineering program consisting of mathematics, physical sciences, engineering sciences, and selected courses in the humanities and social sciences.  During the final two years of the program, each student concentrates his or her study on electrical and computer engineering subjects and can elect from the following areas:  computer engineering, electronics, energy systems, communications, control systems, electromagnetics, solid state devices, optics, and network theory/signal processing.  Specific elective courses must be selected to assure that the design experience is integrated throughout the curriculum. The design experience is integrated throughout the program, leading to two major design courses at the senior level.

A special program option in computer engineering is offered by the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering.  This option is design for students with a strong interest in computers and design to gain a full understanding of both the electronic hardware and the programming software aspects of modern computer systems. 

Electronics Technology differs from the engineering degree in that technologists and technicians are concerned with the accomplishment of practical objectives through the application of proven techniques, methods, and procedures. They are specialists in the state-of-the-art methodology rather than the original and creative design and development of engineers. This degree is in the College of Engineering. 

Engineering technology includes that group of technical occupations directly related to engineering in which one utilizes both technical knowledge and manual skills to develop the concepts and plans of engineers. This degree is more application oriented with more emphasis on laboratory skills.

Students in this degree will have courses from Computer Science. These students find jobs in automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence, design draftsman, quality control technologist.