Computer Science
Computer Science brings Computers to life.
Without the study of computer science, computers themselves are rather bland little processors that follow simple instructions and accurately solve math algorithms really, really, quickly. Computer Science is both the science and art of creating and streamlining programs for these zippy little processors – programs that can do amazing things for humanity. Computer science is also about problem-solving; by studying and developing computer software, we explore and analyze techniques for solving problems and expanding human capabilities.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree offered by the Department of Computer Science & Engineering is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.ABET.org. This accreditation signifies that our computer science program meets ABET’s rigorous standards, ensuring quality education and preparation for professional practice or further advanced study in the field.
We offer smaller class sizes where you receive attention from actual professors, not just Teaching Assistants. Our faculty are passionate instructors with real, relevant experience in the high-tech world. Directed studies can provide you with an even closer student-faculty investigation of advanced topics tailored to your interests. The Computer Club provides a fun social element to connect with your like-minded computer science classmates. HPU has won the Hawai'i site ACM International Collegiate Programming team competition eight times from 2003 to 2017, and placed well in the regional division, too. The relaxed urban Honolulu business district has internship and career opportunities waiting for you in close proximity to our downtown campus. When you need to take a short break from your academics, the tropical Hawaiian atmosphere and local culture is always ready for you to explore.
We’ll expose you to a system of education that puts an emphasis on the multi-faceted ability to solve problems, no matter what form they may take.
Students graduating in Computer Science will be able to:
- Analyze complex computing problems and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify and recommend solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate computer-based solutions to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of computing science.
- Communicate effectively in written and oral formats in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to computing science.
- Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
- Interpret, calculate, analyze, and clearly communicate quantitative information using mathematical, statistical, or symbolic reasoning to solve complex problems.
With the achievement of these outcomes, we expect our students, within a few years of graduation, to be able to:
- Engage in the productive practice of computer science to solve problems in a range of applications by applying sound principles of theoretical foundations and mathematical bases and communicate these solutions professionally.
- Adapt to new technologies, tools and methodologies of computer science practice in the profession and in the academic field.
- Meet or exceed the expectations of their employers and professional mentors as computer science professionals.
- Utilize their computer science expertise in the work place to advance their careers or pursue advanced academic studies.
You may find specific requirements for undergraduate admissions here.
Number of Undergraduate Computer Science Majors |
||
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2020 | Fall 2019 | Fall 2018 |
| 131 | 133 | 203 |
Number of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Graduates |
||
|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | 2019-2020 | 2018-2019 |
| 20 | 30 | 28 |
WHAT CAN I DO WITH COMPUTER SCIENCE?
You can change the world! Ever heard of the Internet? Cell phones? Facebook?
One of our students writes this: "With Computer Science, I know I can develop a foundation for anything related to technology, and with that, it will further allow me to aid in societal development as we grow toward a reliance on technology in our everyday lives. I can create applications to assist citizens in our everyday tasks. I can ensure the security of our network users as we browse the World Wide Web on a daily basis. I can save the world."
I'm in high school now. How can I prepare for a major in computer science at HPU?
- Be curious! Have fun solving problems!
- Gain any programming and/or hands-on experience.
- Take lots of math courses and practice problem-solving in all your classes.
- Take science & writing courses.
- Take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if your school offers them.