Mathematics and Computer Science

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James Bozeman, Professor
Kevin Farrell, Associate Professor
Daisy McCoy, Professor
David Mellor, Professor
Julie Theoret, Assistant Professor

Mathematics:
B.A. Mathematics
Pure Mathematics
Applied Mathematics
Licensure in Secondary Education
(See Secondary Education)
Liberal Studies Concentrations
Minor: Mathematics
 

Computer Science:
B.S. Computer Information Systems/Business
B.S. Computer Information Systems/Meteorology
A.S. in Computing
Liberal Studies Concentrations (See Liberal Studies)
Minor: Computer Science

Program Mission Statement

Mathematics prepares students for a wide range of positions in fields such as teaching, engineering, finance, insurance, investments, social services, government, industry, and higher education. Almost all institutions, agencies, and businesses now require analysts, auditors, computer programmers, consultants, managers, researchers, sales personnel, and statisticians with mathematical training.

Computer Science is one of the most challenging fields facing today’s college students. Advanced computer technology affects all aspects of contemporary life, and there is a growing demand for competently trained, creative professionals who can offer computer expertise. Lyndon State’s commitment to academic excellence focuses on the future, and the computer science curriculum reflects this commitment.

Lyndon State students benefit from the individual attention of professors as well as the program’s combination of practical and theoretical knowledge. Students receive a thorough preparation in programming, program design, and several computer languages, along with an understanding of computer organization, architecture, and networking.

Common Program Goals

Although a traditional discipline, the Mathematics Program has been in the forefront in responding to academic changes, particularly with regard to the use of technology. The relatively new Computer Science Program has also adapted as that field has changed, and changed rapidly.

Our department prepares students for numerous career opportunities. This goal is supplemented by a curriculum that ensures that each of our students graduates with both theoretical and applied knowledge of their field. This is accomplished, in part, by the use of technology, which is integrated throughout the curriculum. Graphing calculators and computer software are employed to help introduce ideas and as an aid in understanding the subject matter. The use of these tools also enables students to learn independently, an important asset in any future career. Finally, another mission of the department is to provide quality service to the other academic units of the College.

Program Assessment

The department uses numerous techniques in order to assess that these program goals have been achieved. As the pool of graduates is manageable, we utilize a case study approach through surveys of graduates and subsequent follow up phone interviews with graduates and their employers.

In addition, for the Mathematics program, the department keeps track of graduate school acceptance rates and success rates of graduates on professional exams. Portfolios of secondary teaching candidates and their success rates in achieving licensure are used to ensure that the required outcomes have been met. For the Computer Science program, other professionals, besides graduates and their employers, provide added feedback in regard to the appropriate direction for curricular changes.

Beginning with the 2002-2003 school year, all majors are required to complete a portfolio that reflects successful completion of student outcomes.

Placement

Computerized testing, to determine an appropriate first course in mathematics, is available to the student at no cost. Inquiries should be directed to the department.

Computer Science

The department offers computer science course work leading to a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Business, a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Meteorology, an Associate’s Degree in Computing, a minor in Computer Science or a Computer Science endorsement for licensed secondary teachers. Recipients of the A.S. degree might seek employment immediately or they might continue their education. Graduates may seek employment as computer operators, data processors, entry-level programmers, or network support staff. The Computer Science minor or the A.S. Degree in Computing can be used to complement a bachelor’s degree in another major at Lyndon State College. Typical majors making this choice are in Business, Mathematics, and Meteorology. The Computer Science Endorsement is intended for students who want to teach computer science at any level. It is assumed that the student already has or is in the process of receiving licensure in another area.

The college offers a number of computer labs with a variety of platforms and a wide range of software. There are local networks on campus as well as access to off-campus sites via the Internet.

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