UAF CS ABET Information

CS Program Educational Objectives

The faculty of the Department of Computer Science at UAF provides a positive learning environment that enables students to pursue their goals in an innovative program that is rigorous, challenging and supportive. The B.S. program develops practical skills by emphasizing hands-on experience in the design, implementation, and validation of computer systems in an environment that fosters and encourages innovation and creativity. This approach builds the foundation for the following program educational objectives:

1. Breadth: Graduates will utilize their broad education emphasizing computer science to serve as the foundation for productive careers in the public or private sectors, graduate education, and lifelong learning.

2. Depth: Graduates will apply the fundamental knowledge that is prerequisite for the practice of and/or advanced study in computer science.

3. Professional Skills: Graduates will apply skills for clear communication, effective teamwork, professional attitudes and ethics to succeed as a professional.

Student Learning Outcomes

According to the 2011-2012 ABET Criteria for Accrediting Computing Programs, “The program must enable students to attain, by the time of graduation:

(a) An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline

(b) An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution

(c) An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs

(d) An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal

(e) An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities

(f) An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

(g) An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society

(h) Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development

(i) An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

(j) An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices.

(k) An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.”

The Computer Science B.S. program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Program Assessment Process

CS Program Assessment Matrix