Master of Science in Computer and Information Systems
Mission
The goal of the Graduate Program in Computer and Information Sciences is to support the vision of the Department of Computer and Information Sciences to provide a nationally and internationally recognized center of learning in the computer and information sciences, focusing on application of state-of-the-art computer technology, and supporting regional aspirations to excel in computer-related enterprise. The objective of the program is to provide graduate degree programs which have an educational atmosphere both intellectual and practical, extending the frontiers of knowledge to the betterment of humankind.
Principles
The curricula for the Computer and Information Sciences graduate degree program are centered on the following guiding principles:
• provide a curriculum having both breadth and depth, building upon the academic content of undergraduate curricula in computing.
• provide a balanced mix of theory and practice in coursework, to enable students to enhance their abilities to be leaders in computing professions.
• incorporate in coursework opportunities for students to examine current thinking of researchers in computing areas and synthesize or extend that work
• provide opportunities for students to conduct independent research leading to papers or presentations, potentially influencing professional practices in computing.
Learning Outcomes
Students completing the MS program in CIS will be able to:
• demonstrate discipline specific content knowledge, by extending their knowledge and skills in one or more of computer science, software engineering, and information systems.
• demonstrate critical thinking skills, by conducting independent research designed to extend the body of knowledge encompassing computing.
• demonstrate oral and written communication skills, by publishing and presenting the results of their research.
Assessment
A culmination experience in the form of a Masters thesis or Masters project is required of each student to assess how well they have accomplished the program objectives.
For a Masters project, the student must
• propose a project for the approval of the SoC Graduate Committee
• specify the project time-line
• specify the resources required
• specify the deliverable
• work under the direction of a SoC Graduate Faculty member to achieve the project specified
• upon completion present the project outcomes to the SoC Graduate Faculty
• prepare a write-up of the project which conforms to commonly accepted standards for technical writing and is formatted in accord with published specifications
• present the project write-up for inclusion in the UNF library archive.