Majors at the University of Connecticut

Computer Science & Engineering

Computer Science is the formal study of what can be computed and what resources are required for computation, as well as the application of hardware, software, and human resources to solve computational problems. This major emphasizes development of applied skills in design, implementation, and validation of computer systems. Students acquire skills in the areas of computer science, computer systems, organization and architecture, algorithms and data structures, principles of software design, elements of the theory of computation, and operating systems.

Academic Department

• UConn's Computer Science and Engineering Department

Nature of Work

The rapid spread of computers and information technology has generated a need for highly trained workers to design and develop new hardware and software systems and to incorporate new technologies. These workers—computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists include a wide range of computer related occupations.

The title, computer scientist, can be applied to a wide range of computer professionals who usually design computers and the software that runs them; develop information technologies; and develop and adapt principles for applying computers to new uses. Computer scientists perform many of the same duties as other computer professionals, but their jobs are distinguished by the higher level of theoretical expertise and innovation they apply to complex problems and the creation or application of new technology.

Computer scientists can work as theorists, researchers, or inventors. Those employed by academic institutions work in areas ranging from complexity theory, to hardware, to programming language design. Some work on multi-disciplinary projects, such as developing and advancing uses of virtual reality in robotics. Their counterparts in private industry work in areas such as applying theory, developing specialized languages or information technologies, or designing programming tools, knowledge-based systems, or even computer games. (U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Statistics, 2000-2001)

Sample Job Titles

Potential Employers

With the exponential growth of information technology, computers have become a staple in our society. They are utilized in every aspect of the economy, thus computer scientists can be found in just about any industry today. However, the greatest concentration of computer specialists are found in the computer and data processing industry, providing a variety of services such as systems software design and database development.

Useful Skills

The computer scientist of today must possess an ability to think critically and remain an active learner. Computer technology evolves very rapidly, therefore it is imperative that today's computer scientist keep updated on all of the latest technical information. Attention to detail is also required of individuals entering this field, as the smallest technicality can cause monumental disruptions in computer programs.

Getting Experience

Students can gain experience working in computer laboratories, while other students are self-taught. The most essential factor in finding employment in this field is being current with technology. The more programs, languages, and systems you are familiar with, the better your chances are in succeeding in this particular field.

Employment Opportunities

As computers have become central to our way of life, the role of computer science and engineering has become much larger. A computer science and engineering graduate can pursue careers relevant to applications programming, web programming, network management, systems analysis, systems programming, and software development and maintenance. These opportunities exist in industry, government, medicine, business, and many other fields.

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