Many companies hire employees into their entry-level computer programming positions who have BS or BA degrees
in a wide range of disciplines with additional training in computer science or computer programming. This is the
case especially when the major discipline is a computer application intensive one, such as engineering, science,
mathematics, accounting, or management. Students who complete this certificate program will be proficient in computer
programming and will understand the basic elements of computer science. This program is designed to prepare individuals
trained in other fields to qualify for entry-level programming positions or to enhance their computing skills in
an existing position.
Requirements for a Certificate in Computer Science (21 hours)
Prerequisite
• MA110 - College Algebra
Required Courses (9 hours)
Electives (choose 9 hours)
Project (3 hours)
An independent research project involving some application of computer science. The project shall be developed in consultation with the student's computer science advisor. Results of the project shall be presented in the form of a final report, which will be kept in the student's permanent portfolio. The subject matter for the research project is open to any suitable topic in the biological, mathematical, physical, or social sciences.
Advising and Degree Plan
Upon application for the certificate in computer science each student will be assigned an advisor in the student's
main area of interest, background, or specialization. The advisor will evaluate the student's experience and recommend
any probationary (prerequisite) courses that may be needed. The advisor and student shall develop a plan of study
including courses to be taken and research to be conducted. This plan of study shall be submitted for approval
by the director(s) of the computer science certificate program, and then forwarded for approval by the Division
Chair.
Transfer Credit
The student may transfer a maximum of six credit hours (2 courses) from other universities upon approval by the
student's advisor, the director(s) of the computer science certificate program and the Division Chair. The transfer
credits may apply toward any of the required courses, but may not count toward the research project.
Credit for Professional Experience
The student may be given credit for up to six hours (2 courses) for equivalent professional experience. This experience
may be demonstrated by a portfolio of the student's work, and will be evaluated by the student's advisor, the director(s)
of the computer science certificate program and the Division Chair. Credit for professional experience may apply
toward any of the required courses, but may not count toward the research project.
Transcript and Certificate
Completion of all courses in the student's plan of study will result in award of a certificate in computer science.
This shall be noted on the student's official university transcript. In addition, the student will receive an official
"letter of completion" from the director(s) of the computer science certificate program.
For more complete information about the current Division webpage: http://mathcs.emporia.edu.
Some References
UMass Lowell CS Certiciate Program
DALHOUSIE University CS Certificate Program
Appalachian State University Certificate Program in Computer Science
U Akron Minor or Certificate in Computer Science
University of Tulsa Certificate in Computer Science
Bridgewater State College Computer Science Certificate Program
Creighton University CERTIFICATE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
IUP Computer Science Intranet Manager Certificate Program
VCU The Certificate Program in Computer Science
The Baldwin-Wallace College Certificate Program in COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS