Why Study Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computers and computational systems: their theory, design, development, and application. Computer scientists design and analyze algorithms to solve problems and develop and study the performance of computer hardware and software. Computer scientists work in challenging and rewarding jobs that encompass design, environmental planning, management, manufacturing, system engineering, law, medicine, and teaching.

The computer and information sciences program at Shepherd University is a comprehensive program with concentrations in computer science (CS), computer programming and information systems (CPIS), and networking and data communications (NDC). Our approach is to teach students fundamental principles and problem-solving skills so that they are able to become creative problem solvers, develop and manage state-of-the-art computing systems, and have productive careers in computer science or information technology. Graduates of the program will be prepared to apply their knowledge professionally in the computer industry or to pursue graduate studies.

The three concentrations provide students flexibility to choose a course of study most interesting to them. Our students are encouraged to minor or even double-major in areas ranging from mathematics, sciences, economics, and business to psychology, sociology, and art.

Why Study Mathematics?

Mathematics is the basis of all sciences, and it can be argued that good training in mathematics enhances all intellectual activity in general. While most people may never explicitly use mathematics in their everyday lives, they do use their reasoning power, and the best way to strengthen that is through solid mathematical training.

Mathematical training develops a flexible mind and an ability to quickly and efficiently learn new things and to solve diverse problems that arise in all walks of life.

Many people with good mathematical training succeed in fields other than mathematics. Frequently, the best programmers in computer science are mathematicians. Fields like economics, business, medicine, the fine arts, and literature often have people with a solid mathematical background. Our graduates succeed in fields like biology, business, engineering, or law after having completed an undergraduate mathematics major or minor. In addition, mathematics is one of the best preparations for the LSAT exam.

As society becomes more technically oriented and science dependent, there will be a growing need for people who are well trained in the sciences and mathematics.

Students with strong mathematics skills and a desire to be in a challenging major will have a clear edge in the job market. First-hand experience with our graduates demonstrates that all our mathematics majors found satisfactory employment and very positive feedback from employers.

Industrial Mathematics
This program is designed to land graduating students in an industrial job upon graduation. The department constantly monitors the needs of industry and tailors its course offerings in direct consultation with industries.  invite guest lecturers from nearby companies to campus to talk to students. Our location near the Baltimore-Washington, D.C., metro area is ideal for creating internships and co-op programs with businesses. The courses, which include mathematics, computer science, engineering, and a variety of select courses from other departments such as business and environmental science, will equip the student with a solid foundation in mathematics and engineering and enable the student to solve real-life problems in the context of applied mathematics.  Shepherd's program produces custom-made employees for the most modern industries.

Why Study Engineering?

The Engineering Concentration is a course of study designed to prepare students for the third year of a baccalaureate degree program in most areas of engineering. The concentration emphasizes providing a strong foundation in the mathematical, physical, computer, and engineering science which constitute the core of all areas of engineering. The specialization in a particular engineering field (electrical, mechanical, chemical, civil, etc.) will occur after the second year upon transfer.  We have transfer agreements with West Virginia University, West Virginia Institute of Technology, and University of Virginia based on some entrance requirements.

As you are probably aware, engineering provides very rewarding career opportunities. Job satisfaction, professional environment, prestige and financial security are some of the positive aspects of an engineering career. Every year, engineering is near, if not at the top, of the list in starting salaries paid to college graduates. Engineering is also a very demanding course of study requiring a high degree of aptitude and great deal of hard work and zeal towards the completion of the program requirements.

The attrition rate in the first two years of most engineering programs is very high. Shepherd University offers the advantage of smaller classes taught by experienced professors (rather than graduate students). This has led to an increased interaction between student and faculty over the past years, which in turn has resulted in graduates with higher quality and professional competence. In addition, the low tuition rates at Shepherd will make it ideal for a student to begin a career in the field of engineering.

Why Study Engineering Science?

The Engineering Science degree is designed to provide the students with an exposure to subjects that form the rudiments of Applied Sciences. The background includes subjects in Applied Mathematics such as Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Operations Research and Numerical Analysis. Core topics in Engineering and Physics such as Digital and Analog Electronics, Thermodynamics, Linear Systems, Electromagnetic Fields, Statics and Dynamics build on the Mathematical concepts that are learnt from the subjects in Applied Mathematics. Furthermore, the lab experience will expose the students to connections between abstract concepts and reality through design oriented projects. Basic topics in management such as Economics and Principles of Management and courses in Computer Networking are also included to provide a well rounded experience to the potential student. In addition, student has an opportunity to specialize in a particular area in the applied science in the Senior Capstone class, where a faculty member guides the student on a project that could result in a presentation/publication at a professional conference. The department emphasizes undergraduate research and we believe that Engineering Science will serve as an excellent avenue for doing the same