Undergraduate Degrees
- Bachelor of Arts in Applied Computing
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The BA degree emphasizes specialized knowledge in computer science along with specialized knowledge in an additional field (for example, biology or psychology). The BA in Applied Computing focuses on computer applications in these other disciplines. The BA degree can be individually tailored to a student's interests, but is currently geared towards three disciplines:
Bioinformatics: the broader study of graphics, games, digital culture, art, media and computer science
Digital Media Studies: the intersection of computer science, genomics, biology and chemistry
Geographic Information Systems (GIS): the study of using and programming spatial database software to aid in fields such as geography and environmental science
The Bachelor or Arts in Applied Computing degree provides a quality education for the serious computer user through a program that combines collaboration with other departments along with an applications-oriented emphasis.
The BA in Applied Computing is a suitable degree for many collaborative programs within the University. This major was developed in consultation with the Department of Mass Communication, which, jointly with the Department of Art and Art History and this Department, has offered the Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Studies. A minor or double major in digital media studies and applied computing complement each other perfectly.
The BA in Applied Computing would likewise be appropriate for students in graphics arts and electronic publishing, or would be an appropriate foundation for a student who wished to pursue a career in the emerging field of education technology. A graduate with the BA in Applied Computing would be very attractive in the data processing unit of large financial, banking or insurance institutions, or as a network or systems administrator in a similar firm, or as a Web designer/programmer. Holders of this degree would also be well suited to continue in any number of specialized Master's or Certificate programs in fields as diverse as video and graphics production, fashion design, telecommunications, instructional technology or management information systems.
- Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics
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The BS in Bioinformatics is for students who want a more rigorous base in computational biology then found in the BA in Applied Computing. The degree requires a substantial grounding in computer science, biology, chemistry and mathematics.
Broadly speaking, bioinformatics refers to the sub-specialty of computer science, biology and chemistry that uses computer science and mathematical concepts to analyze and describe biological phenomena. In practice, the term applies to the computational, mathematical, and statistical techniques that apply to gene sequencing (genomics) and protein structure and function prediction (proteomics). For example, the Human Genome Project relied heavily on the techniques of bioinformatics.
The study of bioinformatics requires a background in computer science (programming, algorithms, and databases), biology (cell and molecular biology), chemistry (organic and biochemistry), and mathematics (discrete mathematics, graph theory, analytical modeling, and statistics). In this program, bioinformatics is the major area, biology and chemistry are (strong) minor areas, and mathematics/statistics is a supporting area. However, some students may want to pursue joint majors in bioinformatics along with either biology or biochemistry.
Because of the interdisciplinary nature of this area, it has been difficult for industry and government to find scientists with backgrounds in all of these areas. The degree is designed to provide the necessary training for those wishing to start a career or pursue graduate study in this fast growing discipline.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
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The BS degree is for students who want to pursue the science of computing. Computer science encompasses the theory and techniques by which information is encoded, stored, communicated, transformed and analyzed. It is concerned with the theory of algorithms (i.e., effective procedures or programs), with the structure of languages for the expression of algorithms, and with the design of algorithms for solving practical problems. A central concern is the study of computer systems (hardware and software) for the automatic execution of these algorithms.
The BS is intended for those who want to work in the most deeply technical areas of computing, or who might wish to pursue graduate education in computer science. Technical areas include algorithms, computational geometry, databases, distributed systems, graphics, multimedia, networking and security.
As with any science, the field of computer science is a highly mathematical, intellectually challenging discipline. The degree is strongly based in mathematics and, in fact, a student will automatically acquire sufficient credits for a minor in mathematics. One additional minor is required. The second minor may be in any discipline other than mathematics or computer science.
- Bachelor Degrees in Game Development
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Game Development is the new and growing field focusing on the creation of electronic games. The field includes computer science, interactive graphics/animation programming, game design, computer audio design, art (drawing, sculpture, color theory), and critical game studies. A degree in game development from the University of Denver will result in the graduate possessing a solid foundation in computer science as well as creative skills from an allied field. This combination of left-right brain training, combined with traditional university liberal arts classes, provides an education for the 21st century. Our BA degree requires a double major in one of three allied fields while our BS requires a set of approved courses in on of these fields. All degrees require significant computer science and programming. Specific programs offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Game Development and Studio ArtComputer science with an emphasis on fundamental art skills
- Bachelor of Arts in Game Development and Electronic Media Arts DesignComputer science with an emphasis on creation of electronic art
- Bachelor of Arts in Game Development and Digital Media StudiesComputer science with an emphasis on high-level computer design tools and critical studies
- Bachelor of Science in Game Development and AnimationComputer Science with an emphasis on animation requiring more math and low-level programming
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
- This degree, offered by the Department of Engineering, is for students interested in applying microprocessor technology to real-world uses. The strong curriculum in computer science and engineering prepares students for careers in communications, the design of“smart” consumer products, and manufacturing, among others. Please view the Department of Engineering Web site for degree details
- 5-Year BS/MBA Degree
- A joint five-year program leads to a Bachelor's degree in computer science and a Master's in business administration. This program is suitable for students whose interests lean toward the management of computing operations, or leadership roles in computing and related industries. It is especially useful for entrepreneurially inclined students interested in starting their own computer related businesses.