Computer Science

Chapman’s Computer Science degree prepares students for graduate school and also for careers in software engineering, game development, integrated circuit design, embedded systems and web-based software development. The curriculum is built on a solid mathematics foundation. It is a rigorous program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree that spans both theory and applications. Through our Computer Science Industry Advisory Board we maintain strong ties with the high tech industries in Southern California.

Students gain experience with industry-standard software systems. The Department is a member of the Microsoft Academic Alliance through which our computer science majors have access to the complete range of Microsoft development software.  Students and faculty are also very involved with open source software development. Most computer science courses include a significant design project that provides an opportunity to apply the core principles of the class. Students work on practical problems with the goal to become productive in the workplace, day one. Most importantly, students learn the formal tools to remain current as computer science technologies and systems change. They will not be bound by a narrow focus on programming alone.

A unique feature of our Computer Science curriculum is the availability of a number of courses in Integrated Circuit and Embedded System Design, which enable students to design a program  that combines the strengths of traditional computer science curricula and electrical engineering curricula.  In particular, integrated coursework in the theory and practice of both software development and hardware development distinguishes this curriculum from other baccalaureate programs.

Digital technology industries, regardless of their origin as "software" or "hardware" enterprises, recognize that hardware and software design can not be regarded as distinct and separate. The trend toward embedded systems emphasizes the point, as do the importance of microprogramming in IC design and of device driver development in "software" applications such as graphics and media processing, database systems, and servers.

So, whether you are interested in software engineering, game development, or integrated circuit design, Chapman University's Computer Science degree will help you realize your dreams.