Bachelors of Computer Science

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Computer Science program at Franklin College offers a dynamic and hands-on learning experience, preparing students for the fast-evolving world of technology. The program emphasizes "learning by doing," actively engaging students in writing code and developing software for both in-class and real-world projects from their very first semester. It aims to equip graduates with the most marketable and in-demand skills in today's workplace, fostering not only technical proficiency but also problem-solving abilities and collaborative teamwork. The curriculum is designed to transform students into well-rounded technology professionals ready to thrive in a high-tech environment.

STEM-Designated: While explicit statements about the STEM designation for the undergraduate Computer Science program at Franklin College were not directly found, it is a widely accepted standard for Computer Science degrees to be STEM-designated due to their rigorous grounding in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This designation is crucial for international students seeking post-graduation work opportunities in the U.S. (Optional Practical Training - OPT) as it allows for an extended OPT period. Given the curriculum's strong emphasis on coding, software development, algorithms, and logical foundations, it aligns perfectly with STEM criteria.

Curriculum: The Computer Science curriculum at Franklin College provides students with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in coding using popular technologies and tools. Beyond programming, students take essential courses in computer architecture and design, computer networking, and operating systems, gaining a holistic understanding of how computing systems function. The program's design focuses on the logical and mathematical foundations of computing and how to implement problem solutions as programs. It covers design principles of key computing technologies and consistently emphasizes mathematical reasoning. Students are continually challenged with in-class and out-of-class projects that integrate conceptual knowledge, problem-solving, and technical skills in collaborative environments.

Research Focus: Undergraduate research is an integral part of the Computer Science program, providing students with unique opportunities to engage in original inquiries and contribute to the field. Faculty members actively mentor students in research projects across various areas, including artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, software engineering, real-time systems, parallel processing, and distributed systems. Students are encouraged to explore their interests and work alongside faculty on impactful projects. A key highlight is the department's focus on drone programming, with dedicated facilities like a drone cage for testing and troubleshooting. This hands-on research builds resumes, develops practical skills, and can even lead to publications.

Industry Engagement: Franklin College's Computer Science program boasts strong industry engagement, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the professional world. A hallmark of the program is the senior capstone experience, where computing students analyze, design, develop, and deliver large-scale software systems to real-world clients. This process involves meeting with clients to determine software needs, designing solutions, coding, testing, and delivering the final product, simulating a professional development cycle. Employers consistently commend the quality and depth of these senior projects. The college also maintains partnerships, including with Microsoft, to integrate state-of-the-art technologies into the classroom, providing graduates with a competitive advantage. Leading employers like Cummins, Geico, and DMI actively recruit Franklin College computing students, often commenting on their readiness for technology roles. Most students also complete internships, providing invaluable real-world experience.

Global Perspective: While not explicitly detailing Computer Science-specific global programs, Franklin College broadly promotes global education. The Office of Global Education facilitates numerous opportunities for international travel, including month-long Immersive Term study abroad courses, semester or year-long programs at partner universities, and international internships. These experiences allow students from all disciplines, including Computer Science, to broaden their understanding of diverse cultures and global challenges. By engaging with different educational systems and professional environments abroad, Computer Science students can gain an enhanced global perspective on technology's role in various societies and develop crucial intercultural competencies for an increasingly interconnected global tech industry.