Academics

By choosing among majors in Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, and Digital Arts, you can develop expertise in systems analysis, software development, Web-application development, networking, database development, artificial intelligence, computer graphics and animation, or computer music. We've designed these majors so you can explore your options the first year, then combine them with majors and minors throughout your studies to give you the broadest background possible -- all while achieving unusual technical depth.

In our Computer Information Systems program, you will focus on networking and the development of software applications for business.

Faculty
With small classes being the norm, you will receive personal attention throughout your years at Stetson. Faculty members work closely with students both in and out of class and are eager to engage students in interesting and individualized research.

The faculty members in our department and their areas of expertise and research are:

• Michael G. Branton, Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; dynamical systems, artificial life and computer graphics
• Lisa O. Coulter, Ph.D., Courant Institute, New York University; numerical analysis and mathematical modeling
• Hala A. El Aarag, Ph.D., University of Central Florida; computer networks, computer architecture, modeling and simulation and performance evaluation
• Erich J. Friedman, Ph.D., Cornell University; probability, packing and tiling, combinatorial geometry and game theory
• William Wise Miles, Ph.D., Clemson University; computational analysis, finite element method, interface tracking and fluid dynamics
• Daniel R. Plante, Ph.D., University of Notre Dame; web application development, security, and software development
• Thomas Keith Vogel, Ph.D., University of Central Florida; nonlinear waves, differential equations, dynamical systems, mathematical physics
• Hari Pulapaka, Ph.D., University of Florida; graph theory, combinatorics and number theory

All students in our department are required to complete a year-long research sequence for the Senior Project. This research is tailored to the interests and strengths of the individual student. A faculty adviser will work individually with you during your senior research year, providing guidance and support as needed.

Our students have developed a number of exciting projects -- giving them a competitive advantage when they apply to graduate schools or look for jobs.

Course Information
The Computer Information Systems major requires the completion of three lower-division and six upper-division major requirements, as well as at least three upper- division electives, including courses in client-server application and database development, electronic commerce, and a business minor. Course offerings include Software Development I and II, Computer Graphics, and Artificial Intelligence.

Internship Opportunities
Students may take an internship course for credit, either during the regular semester or during the summer. Students have also participated in special industry software development projects in recent years.

Career Opportunities
Systems analyst, software developer, software engineer, computer and network security analyst, Web developer, computer game developer, project manager

Alumni Highlights
Andrew Packard '09, software developer, Solodev
Jeff Wray '09, MBA graduate student, Stetson University, and partner, Mobilozophy Inc.
Adriano Caloiaro '09, software engineer and Linux systems administrator, Campus Crusade for Christ
Lorenzo Campanelli '06, owner, Lo Tech Services LLC, San Diego


Clubs and Organizations
The Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) student chapter sponsors an annual high school programming competition at Stetson. The competition allows Florida high school students to compete for prizes, scholarships, and computers for their schools.

Scholarships and Financial Aid
Wands Scholarships (up to $5,000)

Department Awards
Ashcraft Award (cash prize)