College of Arts & Sciences
Computer Science and Engineering
Computer Scientists and Computer Engineers design and build hardware and software systems that operate devices from the smallest components in your smartphone and tablet to the largest satellites orbiting the globe. As the demand for these technologies continues to increase, so too does the need for computer scientists whose skills drive the next innovation.
Like many highly-rated computer science and engineering programs, our programs prepare our graduates to stay ahead of the curve, thanks to a solid theoretical foundation, a pragmatic curriculum that teaches the most widely used skills and languages, and opportunities outside the classroom, such as internships and student research projects.
What sets our program apart is the understanding that computer science isn't about building programs for computers. It's about building systems for people. Our curriculum helps you develop the skills employers consistently mention as highly valued, yet often absent in the profession--communication skills. At North Central you will learn to write, to speak and listen, and to work effectively with others.
Learn about:
Computer Science, B.A.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see
Major Requirements
A minimum of 39 credit hours to include:
Core for the B.A. Degree
-
CSC 160 - Computer Science I
CSC 160 - Computer Science I
3.50 credit hours
An introduction to computer science and programming emphasizing the development of algorithms and their implementation in Java using both procedural and object-oriented approaches. Topics include data types; assignment statements; I/O; arithmetic, relational and logical operators; control structures for selection and iteration; functions; the use of classes and objects; simple data structures, such as arrays; graphical user interfaces and event-driven programming. Extensive programming required. Laboratory required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 161 - Computer Science II
CSC 161 - Computer Science II
3.50 credit hours
A second course in object-oriented programming, emphasizing design and implementation of efficient, well-constructed programs using Java. Topics include inheritance and polymorphism; stream and file I/O; exception handling; algorithms for searching and sorting; recursion; graphical user interfaces; and more advanced data structures, such as linked lists, stacks, queues and the Java collection classes. Extensive programming required. Laboratory required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 210 - Data Structures and Algorithms
CSC 210 - Data Structures and Algorithms
3.00 credit hours
Structures, techniques and algorithms for managing data. Topics include variations of linked lists; binary trees, B-trees and other types of search trees; advanced searching and sorting algorithms; graphs and graph algorithms; and analysis of algorithms. Programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 220 - Computer System Concepts
CSC 220 - Computer System Concepts
3.00 credit hours
Basic computer architecture including combinational circuits, instruction sets, microprogramming, assembly language, I/O (devices, busses and interrupts) and memory systems and organization. Programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 230 - Discrete Structures I
CSC 230 - Discrete Structures I
3.00 credit hours
Fundamental topics in mathematics and computer science including formal logic, proof techniques, sets, relations and functions, combinatorics, graphs, Boolean algebra, logic circuits and finite state machines.
Prerequisite(s)
Core
Mathematics. -
CSC 306 - Software Development in C++
CSC 306 - Software Development in C++
3.00 credit hours
Object-oriented design and implementation of large scale software using C++. Topics include inheritance, polymorphism, virtual functions, operater overloading and the STL. Extensive programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 495 - Capstone Seminar
CSC 495 - Capstone Seminar
3.00 credit hours
The Computer Science capstone course allows students to apply the many skills they have acquired during their undergraduate studies by participating as a member of a team to design, develop and present a software solution to a substantive problem. Group process and leadership skills are addressed as well as ethical considerations important to computer science professionals.
Prerequisite(s)
Senior standing; Computer Science major or minor.
-
Students with equivalent background for a core course may have it waived by the department chair and substitute an additional CSC elective in its place.
Electives
Choose six electives, at least three of which must be chosen from the following:
-
CSC 215 - Introduction to Web Programming
CSC 215 - Introduction to Web Programming
3.00 credit hours
Topics include the use of PHP and other web languages and framework for server-side generation of content. Also covers HTML/CSS and Javascript for client-side presentation, SQL databases for information management and retrieval, management of shopping carts and client sessions and security. Extensive programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 415 - Web Applications
CSC 415 - Web Applications
3.00 credit hours
Development of web applications using various client-side and server-side web technologies on the Java EE and .NET platforms. Topics include: HTTP protocols, the Model-View-Controller design pattern, Javascript, AJAX, Java Servlets, Java Server Pages, JSTL, ASP.NET MVC, ASP.NET web forms, JDBC and ADO.NET for database access and web application security. Extensive programming required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 415 and CSC 515.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 436 - Human Computer Interaction
CSC 436 - Human Computer Interaction
3.00 credit hours
Fundamental principles in the design, implementation and evaluation of human-machine interfaces with emphasis on human computer interaction. Topics include user psychology, theories of human learning and perception, audio and visual physiology, graphical user interfaces, task analysis and usability heuristics. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 436 and CSC 536.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 453 - Systems Analysis
CSC 453 - Systems Analysis
3.00 credit hours
Methods, techniques and tools to model and analyze systems. Topics include problem definition, the project life cycle, data acquisition, data flow and entity-relationship modeling, use cases and the use of project management CASE tools. Major project required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 453 and CSC 553.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 460 - Database Management Systems
CSC 460 - Database Management Systems
3.00 credit hours
Data modeling, and database design and implementation, with emphasis on the relational model. Includes SQL, PHP, JDBC, integrity, security, recovery and concurrency issues, and business applications of database systems. SQL, PHP and JDBC programming required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 460 and CSC 560.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 464 - Data Mining
CSC 464 - Data Mining
3.00 credit hours
An introduction to data mining in the context of KDD (Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining), covering the three main phases of the KDD process: preprocessing, data extraction and data analysis. Includes data cleaning and preparation techniques; extraction methods such as deviation detection, classification, dependency modeling and clustering; statistical analysis methods; and visualization techniques. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 464 and CSC 564.
Prerequisite(s)
Required Communications Support
Two of the following courses (one of which may be used to fulfill the College's general education speech communication requirement):
-
COM 100 - Introduction to Public Speaking
COM 100 - Introduction to Public Speaking
3.00 credit hours
An introduction to a wide array of public speaking skills, including preparation, presentation and evaluation of speeches. Recommended primarily for first year students and sophomores.
Core
CommunicationIAI
C2 900 -
COM 200 - Interpersonal Communication
COM 200 - Interpersonal Communication
3.00 credit hours
A study of communication in face-to-face interactions. The course examines the role of perception of self and others in communication and explores such topics as nonverbal communication, verbal styles, relationship development and conflict management. Skills training is an important component of the course.
Core
Communication. -
COM 214 - Group Process
COM 214 - Group Process
3.00 credit hours
The understanding and practice of small group communication theory and skills in information-sharing and decision-making discussions.
Core
Communication. -
COM 230 - Business and Professional Communication
COM 230 - Business and Professional Communication
3.00 credit hours
This course focuses on developing the skills and strategies involved in written, face-to-face and electronic communication in professional settings. Students learn fundamentals of interviewing, writing and presenting in professional contexts and may investigate organizational communication practices such as performance feedback, training, meeting management and organizational identity.
Prerequisite(s)
One of
-
ENG 265 - Style
ENG 265 - Style
3.00 credit hours
An examination of the linguistic structure and rhetorical effects of sentences, paragraphs, and essays in the works of selected writers. Students review English syntax in order to expand their understanding of how stylistic choices affect the creation of meaning.
Prerequisite(s)
-
IFS 320 - Multimedia Presentations
IFS 320 - Multimedia Presentations
1.50 credit hours
Design, production and delivery of multimedia presentations. Using a hands-on approach, students learn to create and integrate text, graphics, audio and video into presentations that enhance communication.
Prerequisite(s)
One CSC or IFS course.
-
LEV 230 - Conflict Resolution
LEV 230 - Conflict Resolution
3.00 credit hours
An inquiry into the theories and skills relating to the resolution of conflict in the community and the workplace. A variety of approaches are used to understand and analyze issues and develop skills including lecture/discussion, negotiation exercises and simulated mediations. The course focuses on developing the ability to practice as a mediator.
Prerequisite(s)
Sophomore standing.
Core
Communication or Social Science. -
MED 200 - Digital Writing
MED 200 - Digital Writing
3.00 credit hours
Digital writing introduces students to writing on different types of platforms including the web, applications and social media. Students learn to write for a variety of different topics including blog writing, online news and public relations. The course also hones writing and research skills for digital writing.
Prerequisite(s)
Additional Requirements for the B.A. Degree
- Complete a second major or a minor outside of CSC -or-
- Complete three additional communications courses from the communications support list above
Typical B.A. Course Sequences
Students needing Math Prerequisite:
| FALL | WINTER | SPRING | |
|---|---|---|---|
| FIRST YEAR |
|
|
|
| SECOND YEAR |
|
|
|
*IFS 115 is a recommended elective.
Students meeting Math Prerequisite:
| FALL | WINTER | SPRING | |
| FIRST YEAR | |||
| Sequence One Students new to computer programming |
|
|
|
| Sequence Two Students with some programming background |
|
|
|
| SECOND YEAR |
|
|
|
*IFS 115 is a recommended elective.
Computer Science, B.S.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see
Major Requirements
A minimum of 39 credit hours to include:
Core for the B.S. Degree
-
CSC 160 - Computer Science I
CSC 160 - Computer Science I
3.50 credit hours
An introduction to computer science and programming emphasizing the development of algorithms and their implementation in Java using both procedural and object-oriented approaches. Topics include data types; assignment statements; I/O; arithmetic, relational and logical operators; control structures for selection and iteration; functions; the use of classes and objects; simple data structures, such as arrays; graphical user interfaces and event-driven programming. Extensive programming required. Laboratory required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 161 - Computer Science II
CSC 161 - Computer Science II
3.50 credit hours
A second course in object-oriented programming, emphasizing design and implementation of efficient, well-constructed programs using Java. Topics include inheritance and polymorphism; stream and file I/O; exception handling; algorithms for searching and sorting; recursion; graphical user interfaces; and more advanced data structures, such as linked lists, stacks, queues and the Java collection classes. Extensive programming required. Laboratory required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 210 - Data Structures and Algorithms
CSC 210 - Data Structures and Algorithms
3.00 credit hours
Structures, techniques and algorithms for managing data. Topics include variations of linked lists; binary trees, B-trees and other types of search trees; advanced searching and sorting algorithms; graphs and graph algorithms; and analysis of algorithms. Programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 220 - Computer System Concepts
CSC 220 - Computer System Concepts
3.00 credit hours
Basic computer architecture including combinational circuits, instruction sets, microprogramming, assembly language, I/O (devices, busses and interrupts) and memory systems and organization. Programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 230 - Discrete Structures I
CSC 230 - Discrete Structures I
3.00 credit hours
Fundamental topics in mathematics and computer science including formal logic, proof techniques, sets, relations and functions, combinatorics, graphs, Boolean algebra, logic circuits and finite state machines.
Prerequisite(s)
Core
Mathematics. -
CSC 306 - Software Development in C++
CSC 306 - Software Development in C++
3.00 credit hours
Object-oriented design and implementation of large scale software using C++. Topics include inheritance, polymorphism, virtual functions, operater overloading and the STL. Extensive programming required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 495 - Capstone Seminar
CSC 495 - Capstone Seminar
3.00 credit hours
The Computer Science capstone course allows students to apply the many skills they have acquired during their undergraduate studies by participating as a member of a team to design, develop and present a software solution to a substantive problem. Group process and leadership skills are addressed as well as ethical considerations important to computer science professionals.
Prerequisite(s)
Senior standing; Computer Science major or minor.
-
Students with equivalent background for a core course may have it waived by the department chair and substitute an additional CSC elective in its place.
Electives
Choose six electives, at least three of which must be chosen from the following:
-
CSC 340 - Algorithms
CSC 340 - Algorithms
3.00 credit hours
Design and analysis of algorithms. Classification of algorithms by time and space complexity. Algorithm design techniques such as divide and conquer, the greedy method and dynamic programming. NP-complete problems and approximation algorithms. Introduction to parallel algorithms. Programming may be required.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 415 - Web Applications
CSC 415 - Web Applications
3.00 credit hours
Development of web applications using various client-side and server-side web technologies on the Java EE and .NET platforms. Topics include: HTTP protocols, the Model-View-Controller design pattern, Javascript, AJAX, Java Servlets, Java Server Pages, JSTL, ASP.NET MVC, ASP.NET web forms, JDBC and ADO.NET for database access and web application security. Extensive programming required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 415 and CSC 515.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 420 - Operating Systems I
CSC 420 - Operating Systems I
3.00 credit hours
An examination of approaches to computer system resource management. Topics include scheduling, memory management, file systems, I/O management, multiprocessing, security and protection. Programming may be required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 420 and CSC 520.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 427 - Linux Programming
CSC 427 - Linux Programming
3.00 credit hours
Fundamental concepts, library facilities and programming techniques that provide the foundation for application, systems, network and Internet programming on Linux and Unix systems. Course topics include the operating system kernel, process management, I/O, pipes, signals, sockets and shell programming. The course does not cover system administration. Extensive programming in C and C++ required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 427 and CSC 527.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 469 - Computer Networks
CSC 469 - Computer Networks
3.00 credit hours
Exploration of data communications and computer networks. Topics include network architecture, TCP/IP protocols, wireless and mobile networks and network security. Includes hands-on lab activities and an introduction to network programming. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 469 and CSC 569.
Prerequisite(s)
-
CSC 479 - Computer and Network Security
CSC 479 - Computer and Network Security
3.00 credit hours
Students are introduced to the theory and methods for developing and maintaining secure systems and applications. Topics include secure infrastructures, intrusion prevention and detection, viruses and anti-virus software, software security, authentication, cryptography and legal and ethical issues.
Prerequisite(s)
Required Communications Support:
Two of the following courses (one of which may be used to fulfill the College's general education speech communication requirement):
-
COM 100 - Introduction to Public Speaking
COM 100 - Introduction to Public Speaking
3.00 credit hours
An introduction to a wide array of public speaking skills, including preparation, presentation and evaluation of speeches. Recommended primarily for first year students and sophomores.
Core
CommunicationIAI
C2 900 -
COM 200 - Interpersonal Communication
COM 200 - Interpersonal Communication
3.00 credit hours
A study of communication in face-to-face interactions. The course examines the role of perception of self and others in communication and explores such topics as nonverbal communication, verbal styles, relationship development and conflict management. Skills training is an important component of the course.
Core
Communication. -
COM 214 - Group Process
COM 214 - Group Process
3.00 credit hours
The understanding and practice of small group communication theory and skills in information-sharing and decision-making discussions.
Core
Communication. -
COM 230 - Business and Professional Communication
COM 230 - Business and Professional Communication
3.00 credit hours
This course focuses on developing the skills and strategies involved in written, face-to-face and electronic communication in professional settings. Students learn fundamentals of interviewing, writing and presenting in professional contexts and may investigate organizational communication practices such as performance feedback, training, meeting management and organizational identity.
Prerequisite(s)
One of
-
ENG 265 - Style
ENG 265 - Style
3.00 credit hours
An examination of the linguistic structure and rhetorical effects of sentences, paragraphs, and essays in the works of selected writers. Students review English syntax in order to expand their understanding of how stylistic choices affect the creation of meaning.
Prerequisite(s)
-
IFS 320 - Multimedia Presentations
IFS 320 - Multimedia Presentations
1.50 credit hours
Design, production and delivery of multimedia presentations. Using a hands-on approach, students learn to create and integrate text, graphics, audio and video into presentations that enhance communication.
Prerequisite(s)
One CSC or IFS course.
-
LEV 230 - Conflict Resolution
LEV 230 - Conflict Resolution
3.00 credit hours
An inquiry into the theories and skills relating to the resolution of conflict in the community and the workplace. A variety of approaches are used to understand and analyze issues and develop skills including lecture/discussion, negotiation exercises and simulated mediations. The course focuses on developing the ability to practice as a mediator.
Prerequisite(s)
Sophomore standing.
Core
Communication or Social Science. -
MED 200 - Digital Writing
MED 200 - Digital Writing
3.00 credit hours
Digital writing introduces students to writing on different types of platforms including the web, applications and social media. Students learn to write for a variety of different topics including blog writing, online news and public relations. The course also hones writing and research skills for digital writing.
Prerequisite(s)
Additional Requirements for the B.S. Degree
-
MTH 152 - Calculus II
MTH 152 - Calculus II
3.00 credit hours
Continuation of Calculus I with emphasis on integration and its applications. Required for the B.S. degree in any department.
Prerequisite(s)
Core
Mathematics.IAI
M1 900
One of the following:
-
CSC 231 - Discrete Structures II
* (same as
CSC 231 - Discrete Structures II
3.00 credit hours
A second course in discrete mathematics that introduces more advanced topics as well as covering some of the material introduced in CSC/MTH 230 in more depth. Topics include growth of functions and complexity of algorithms; number theory; recursive definitions and algorithms; proof techniques; program verification; discrete probability; finite state automata; and formal grammars and language recognizers. Hands-on labs allow students to apply one or more course topics to build practical working systems.
Prerequisite(s)
-
MTH 153 - Calculus III
MTH 153 - Calculus III
3.00 credit hours
Continuation of Calculus II with an emphasis on infinite series.
Prerequisite(s)
Core
Mathematics.IAI
M1 900
Note(s):
*
One of the following:
-
BUS 241 - Business and Economic Statistics
BUS 241 - Business and Economic Statistics
3.00 credit hours
This course is designed to provide students with the ability to apply and interpret descriptive and inferential procedures, probability distributions, statistical sampling and design, hypothesis testing and regression. Primary objectives are to improve the statistical capabilities of students as well as their abilities to apply statistical concepts in a business setting.
Prerequisite(s)
Core
Mathematics. -
MTH 342 - Probability and Statistics II
MTH 342 - Probability and Statistics II
3.00 credit hours
A continuation of
Prerequisite(s)
-
PSY 250 - Statistics
PSY 250 - Statistics
3.00 credit hours
A course stressing the methods, concepts and logic underlying the statistical evaluation of research data. The course stresses descriptive and inferential statistics, estimation and hypothesis testing and "why" as well as "when" to use various statistical methods. A working knowledge of basic algebraic techniques is necessary. Only one of
Prerequisite(s)
Core
Mathematics.IAI
M1 902
Typical B.S. Course Sequences
| FALL | WINTER | SPRING | |
|---|---|---|---|
| FIRST YEAR | |||
| Sequence One Students new to computer programming |
|
|
|
| Sequence Two Students with some programming background |
|
|
|
| SECOND YEAR |
|
|
|
*IFS 115 is a recommended elective.
Computer Science Minor
For additional programs and courses in this department, see
Minor Requirements
A minimum of 19 credit hours in Computer Science.
NOTE: This page contains all of the regular course descriptions for this discipline or program. Academic credit for each course is noted in parenthesis after the course title. Prerequisites (if any) and the general education requirements, both Core and All-College Requirements (ACRs), which each course fulfills (if any) are noted following each course description. Not all courses are offered every year. Check Merlin, our searchable course schedule, to see which courses are being offered in upcoming terms.
CSC 140 Fundamentals of Computational Problem Solving (3.00)
An introduction to computing focusing on problem solving, algorithm construction, data organization, and program development using Python. Topics include basic programming fundamentals and constructs such as variables and assignment statements; arithmetic,relational, and logical operators; decisions and loops; modularization with functions; files; and data structures such as lists and dictionaries. Prior programming experience is not required.
CSC 150 C++ Programming for Science and Engineering (Lab) (3.50)
An introduction to computing for students of Science and Engineering using C++ in a Unix Environment. Concepts covered include use of the Unix command line, C++ data types and control structures, algorithmic problem solving, object oriented software development, and an introduction to numerical methods. Programming exercises and examples will be drawn from a variety of scientific disciplines. Extensive programming required. Laboratory required.
CSC 160 Computer Science I (3.50)
An introduction to computer science and programming emphasizing the development of algorithms and their implementation in Java using both procedural and object-oriented approaches. Topics include data types; assignment statements; I/O; arithmetic, relational and logical operators; control structures for selection and iteration; functions; the use of classes and objects; simple data structures, such as arrays; graphical user interfaces and event-driven programing. Extensive programming required. May not be taken after a higher level programming class.
CSC 161 Computer Science II (3.50)
A second course in object-oriented programming, emphasizing design and implementation of efficient, well-constructed programs using Java. Topics include inheritance and polymorphism; stream and file I/O; exception handling; algorithms for searching and sorting; recursion; graphical user interfaces; and more advanced data structures, such as linked lists, stacks, queues, and the Java collection classes. Extensive programming required. May not be taken after higher level programming class.
CSC 171 Elements of Java I (1.50)
An introduction to Java for students with some programming experience in an object-oriented language, but with little or no knowledge of Java. Covers event-driven programming and graphical user interfaces.
CSC 172 Elements of Java II (1.50)
Further study of Java for students who have some knowledge of Java and are familiar with the concepts of searching and sorting, recursion, and elementary data structures such as linked lists, stacks, and queues. Covers graphical user interfaces, polymorphism, exception handling, streams, and files.
CSC 210 Data Structures & Algorithms (3.00)
Structures, techniques, and algorithms for managing data. Topics include variations of linked lists; binary trees, B- trees, and other types of search trees; advanced searching and sorting algorithms; graphs and graph algorithms; and analysis of algorithms. Programming required.
CSC 215 Introduction to Web Programming (3.00)
Topics include the use of PHP and Ruby for server-side generation of content. Also covers HTML/CSS and Javascript for client-side presentation, SQL databases for information management and retrieval, management of shopping carts and client sessions, and security. Extensive programming required. Same as: MED 215.
CSC 220 Computer System Concepts (3.00)
Basic computer architecture including combinational circuits, instruction sets, microprogramming, and assembly language, I/O (devices, busses and interrupts), and memory systems and organization. Programming required.
CSC 225 Web and Animation Programming With Flash (1.50)
Course covers program control of Flash animations to build content-rich interactive Web pages. Topics include: client-side scripting, plug-ins, environment and session variables, components, animation control with ActionScript, audio and video, interaction with HTML elements, usability, and interface design.
CSC 230 Discrete Structures I (3.00)
Fundamental topics in mathematics and computer science including formal logic, proof techniques, sets, relations and functions, combinatorics, graphs, Boolean Algebra, logic circuits, and finite state machines. Same as: MTH 230. Core: Mathematics.
CSC 231 Discrete Structures II (3.00)
A second course in discrete mathematics that introduces more advanced topics as well as covering some of the material introduced in CSC 230 in more depth. Topics include growth of functions and complexity of algorithms; number theory; recursive definitions and algorithms; proof techniques; program verification; discrete probability; finite state automata; and formal grammars and language recognizers. Hands-on labs allow students to apply one or more course topics to build practical working systems. Same as: MTH 231.
CSC 242 Introduction to Bioinformatics (3.00)
Introduction to the field of bioinformatics. Computational methods for study of biological sequence data in comparative biology and evolution. Analysis of genome content and organization. Techniques for searching sequence databases, pairwise and multiple sequence alignment, phylogenetic methods, and methods for pattern recognition and functional inference from sequence data. Database theory, information extraction, algorithm analysis, and data mining are utilized. Same as: BIO 242. Core: Science.
CSC 297 Internship (0.00-4.00)
Instructor consent required.
CSC 299 Independent Study (1.00-4.00)
Instructor consent required.
CSC 306 Software Development in C++ (3.00)
Object-oriented design and implementation of large scale software using C++. Topics include inheritance, polymorphism, virtual functions, operator overloading and the STL. Extensive programming required.
CSC 340 Algorithms (3.00)
Design and analysis of algorithms. Classification of algorithms by time and space complexity. Algorithm design techniques such as divide and conquer, the greedy method, and dynamic programming. NP-complete problems and approximation algorithms. Introduction to parallel algorithms. Programming may be required. Repeats CSC 440.
CSC 355 Windows and .Net Programming (3.00)
System and application programming on Windows and the .NET platform using C#. Topics include Windows Forms and the Windows Presentation Foundation, interprocess communication, .NET network programming, ADO.NET, and security.
CSC 397 Internship (0.00-4.00)
Instructor consent required.
CSC 399 Independent Study (1.00-4.00)
Instructor consent required.
CSC 410 Mobile Applications Development (3.00)
An introduction to creating applications that run on smart phones, tablets, and other handheld devices, using the Android platform. Topics include Android OS and device hardware; XML interfaces and themes; activates and fragments; services and multi-threading; the SQLite database; multimedia; and an introduction to iOS and Objective C. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 410 and 510.
CSC 415 Web Applications (3.00)
Development of web applications using various client-side and server-side web technologies on the Java EE and .NET platforms. Topics include: HTTP protocols, the Model-View-Controller design pattern, JavaScript, AJAX, Java Servlets, Java Server Pages, JSTL, ASP.NET MVC, ASP.NET web forms, JDBC and ADO.NET for database access, and web applications security. Extensive programming required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 415 and 515.
CSC 420 Operating Systems I (3.00)
An examination of approaches to computer system resource management. Topics include scheduling, memory management, file systems, I/O management, multiprocessing, security, and protection. Programming may be required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 420 and 520.
CSC 425 Computer Graphics (3.00)
2D and 3D graphical applications implemented in OpenGL. Includes graphics, display technologies, and human factors. Extensive programming required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 425 and 525.
CSC 427 Linux Programming (3.00)
Fundamental concepts, library facilities, and programing techniques that provide the foundation for application, systems, network and Internet programming on Linux and Unix systems. Course topics include the operating system kernel, process management, I/O, pipes, signals, sockets, and shell programming. The course does not cover system administration. Extensive programing in C and C++ required. Students many not receive credit for both CSC 427 and CSC 490/590 Special Topics: UNIX/Linux. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 427 and 527.
CSC 435 Windows Game Programming (3.00)
Design and development of Windows game software. Topics include computer graphics, networking, event-driven programming, the Windows API, XNA, modeling tools, graphics engines for games, and an introduction to C#. Extensive program required. Repeats CSC 490/590 Special Topics: Game Software. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 435 and 535.
CSC 436 Human Computer Interaction (3.00)
Fundamental principles in the design, implementation, and evaluation of human-machine interfaces with emphasis on human computer interaction. Topics include user psychology, theories of human learning and perception, audio and visual physiology, graphical user interfaces, task analysis, and usability heuristics. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 436 and 536.
CSC 453 Systems Analysis (3.00)
Methods, techniques, and tools to model and analyze systems. Topics include problem definition, the project life cycle, data acquisition, data flow and entity-relationship modeling, use cases, and the use of project management CASE tools. Major project required. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 453 and 553.
CSC 460 Database Systems (3.00)
Data modeling, and database design and implementation, with emphasis on the relational model. Includes SQL, PHP, JDBC, integrity, security, recovery and concurrency issues, and business applications of database systems. SQL, PHP and JDBC programming required. Same as: CSC 560. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 460 and 560.
CSC 464 Data Mining (3.00)
An introduction to data mining in the context of KDD (Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining), covering the three main phases of the KDD process: preprocessing, data extraction, and data analysis. Includes data cleaning and preparation techniques; extraction methods such as deviation detection, classification, dependency modeling, and clustering; statistical analysis methods; and visualization techniques. Repeats CSC 692 Special Topics: Data Mining. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 464 and 564.
CSC 469 Computer Networks (3.00)
Exploration of data communications and computer networks. Topics include network architecture, TCP/IP protocols, wireless and mobile networks, and network security. Includes hands-on lab activities and an introduction to network programming. Same as: CSC 569. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 469 and 569.
CSC 479 Computer and Network Security (3.00)
Students are introduced to the theory and methods for developing and maintaining secure systems and applications. Topics include secure infrastructures, intrusion prevention and detection, virus and anti-virus software, software security, authentication, cryptography, and legal and ethical issues. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 479 and 579.
CSC 487 Parallel Processing & Concurrent Prog (3.00)
A course in hardware, software, and language aspects of parallel computing, focusing on the development of effective parallel algorithms and their implementation on a variety of parallel architectures and interconnection networks. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 487 and 587. Repeats CSC 635.
CSC 490 Special Topics (3.00)
A course covering a topic of current interest. Students may not receive credit for both CSC 490 and 590. Instructor consent required.
CSC 495 Capstone Seminar (3.00)
This Computer Science capstone course allows students to apply the many skills they have acquired during their undergraduate studies by participating as a member of a team to design, develop, and present a software solution to a substantive problem. Group process and leadership skills are addressed as well as ethical considerations important to computer science professionals. ACR: Leadership, Ethics, & Values.
CSC 497 Internship (0.00-4.00)
Instructor consent required.
CSC 499 Independent Study (1.00-4.00)
Junior standing or instructor consent. Instructor consent required.
Faculty Emeriti
Godfrey A. Muganda
Professor of Computer Science Emeritus
B.S., Eastern Mennonite College, 1979; M.S., College of William and Mary, 1980; Ph.D., Lehigh University, 1984
gcmuganda@noctrl.edu
Stephen C. Renk
Professor of Computer Science Emeritus
B.A., 1973, M.S., 1979, Ph.D., 1986, University of Iowa
screnk@noctrl.edu
Judy C. Walters
Associate Professor of Computer Science Emerita
B.A., University of Iowa, 1968; M.S., Illinois Institute of Technology, 1984
jcwalters@noctrl.edu
Adjunct Faculty
Pero Atanasov
B.S., North Central College; M.S., University of Chicago
Senior Software Engineer, Informatica
Brian Craig
B.S., M.S., North Central College
Software Engineer Specialist, Argonne National Laboratory
Jennifer Dust
B.A., M.S., North Central College
Web Applications Programmer and Graduate Assistant, North Central College
Ronald Hurlbut
B.S., M.S., Michigan Tech University
William Krieger
B.S., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; M.S., University of Illinois at Chicago
Co-founder, Synopsys
Computer Science students have the opportunity to participate in a number of activities outside the classroom that will enhance their learning experiences in the classroom.
Students have the opportunity to participate in the yearly ACCA programming competition where our students compete with students from other schools in the Chicagoland area. Students may also choose to participate in our internship program and our summer undergraduate research program where they can gain valuable real-world experience. In addition, students may serve as lab assistants or tutors, or participate in the college's preceptor program.
Students interested in these opportunities should contact the computers science department for more information.