2011-2012 University Catalog 
  
2011-2012 University Catalog

Computational and Data Sciences, BS


Banner Code:  SC-BS-CDS

The BS degree in computational and data sciences (CDS) represents a new direction for integrated science at Mason based on the combination of applied mathematics, real-world computer science skills, data acquisition and analysis, and scientific modeling. Graduates of the BS program in CDS will possess the mathematical, scientific, and computational skills necessary to participate effectively as members of the interdisciplinary scientific simulation and analysis groups that are becoming more and more common in the public and the private sectors, particularly in Northern Virginia. Graduates will also be qualified to pursue graduate education in the sciences. Any student who meets the university’s general eligibility requirements may apply to the Computational and Data Sciences BS program.

Students must fulfill all requirements for bachelor’s degrees  including university general education requirements . In addition, students must complete a total of 18 credits in CDS core courses, 1 credit in IT ethics, 7 credits in computer science, 20 credits in mathematics, 3 credits in statistics, and 3-9 credits in CDS electives with a minimum GPA of 2.00. Students may select an optional concentration in physics, chemistry, or biology (21-25 credits). Through the course-work below, computational and data sciences majors satisfy the university-wide requirements in natural science and quantitative reasoning.

CDS 302 fulfills the university’s writing-intensive requirement.

This program of study is offered by the School of Physics, Astronomy, and Computational Sciences in the College of Science.

Degree Requirements


IT Ethics (1 credit):


Computational and Data Sciences Electives (3–9 credits):


Choose 3-9 credits of CDS elective courses from the list below.

Science Concentration (21–25 credits):


Students select an optional concentration and complete 21-25 credits of course work in the selected concentration (see below).

Concentrations


Students may fulfill the requirements for the CDS BS degree using the courses specified above. Alternatively, students may select an optional science concentration in physics, chemistry, or biology. The courses required for each concentration are listed below. Students should plan a program of study in consultation with their advisor as appropriate for their selected concentration. The concentration options include the following requirements (in addition to the university requirement that students must complete 120 total hours of coursework, including 45 credits from courses numbered 300 and higher).

▲ Concentration in Biology (BIOL)

This concentration is appropriate for students who wish to pursue a career or graduate education that applies computational techniques to the simulation of biological processes and systems. To complete this concentration, students should take the following courses:

Total: 25 credits

▲ Concentration in Chemistry (CHEM)

This concentration is intended for students who wish to pursue a career or graduate education that applies computers to the simulation of chemical processes and systems. To complete this concentration, students should take the following courses:

▲ Concentration in Physics (PHYS)

This concentration is designed for students who wish to pursue a career or graduate education that applies computational techniques to the simulation of physical problems. To complete this concentration, students should take the following courses: