Computing as a Profession
Computer scientists and engineers apply the theories and
principles of mathematics and science to design computers, software, networks,
and processes. These professionals work in many settings in research, industry,
government, business, and education to create advanced information technologies,
computer systems, and computer applications. The field of computer science
and engineering is constantly moving forward, providing intellectual challenges
and developing new knowledge on an almost daily basis.
Career Outlook
The demand for professionals in computing fields is widespread;
job opportunities for computer scientists and engineers exist in almost
every industry. As computer applications continue to expand, occupations
in computer science and engineering are projected to be among the the fastest growing
in the United States through 2008. An overview of job opportunities in computer
science and engineering is available from the United States Bureau
of Labor Statistics.
Computer Science and Engineering at USC
The Department of Computer Science and Engineering
offers baccalaureate degrees with majors in computer engineering, computer
information systems, and computer science. All three degrees provide students
with the knowledge and skills needed to work as practitioners in all aspects
of the computing and information processing industries. All majors include
a common core of fundamental courses in computing. The major in computer
engineering includes courses in electronics and computer hardware as well
as software; the major in computer information systems includes courses
in business and is designed for students who are primarily interested in
business applications; the major in computer science allows students to focus primarily on the software aspects of computing and requires selection
of an appropriate application area.The Department also
offers MS, ME, and PhD degrees in Computer Science and Engineering. A combined
BS/MS program is available which facilitates completion of both degrees by
allowing some senior courses to be applied to both degrees.
Computer Facilities
The department maintains several computer laboratories for
instruction and research. Laboratories used to support undergraduate work
include two Windows 2000 labs, a Solaris Ultra 10 lab, and a Solaris Sunblade
100 lab; the latter two labs use Unix. CSCE 145 and 146 (the first two
courses for majors) use Java in a Windows environment; CSCE 245 then introduces
C++ in a Unix environment. Appropriate programming languages and software are
used in other courses. The college Information
Technology Services (ITS) also maintains college laboratories and a
help desk. Students are encouraged to purchase a PC of their own to use in their
studies; recommended
configurations are provided by ITS. Almost all dormitories
at USC have appropriate connections in the rooms.
Departmental Research
Faculty in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering
conduct research and development in a variety of fundamental areas, including
agent-based computing, decision making and analysis, database mining and
warehousing, multimedia system design and implementation, parallel computer
architecture, and security. This research finds applications in bioinformatics,
e-commerce, education, information systems, and computer forensics. Advanced elective courses in
these areas are offered, and there are some opportunities for undergraduate students to
participate in ongoing research projects (or to suggest their own!). See the
faculty and departmental research web pages for further information on research
activities.
Student Organizations
The ACM and IEEE student societies support a variety of activities,
including local programs and field trips, participation in regional conferences,
and software contests. There is also an active local chapter of the National
Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).
The department provides support for undergraduate
participation in many activities, including conferences and competitions.
Student Services
All undergraduate programs in the College of Engineering and
Information Technology are coordinated by the Office of Student
Services. This office conducts advisement and orientation for new and transfer
students, maintains student records, tracks student progress, and clears
students for graduation. They can also provide information and contacts in
nonacademic areas such as housing and financial aid although they are not the
primary source of information about these nonacademic areas. Forms and requests
requiring the permission of the Dean should be taken to this office;
responsibilities related to the undergraduate program have been delegated to
this office.
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