Bachelor in Informatik

As a computer science major, students learn skills and techniques that will prepare them for success in their careers or graduate studies. Faculty focus on three core areas: general background in computer science, theory, and practical reasoning.

Studying the general background in computer science educates students about the theories for why and how software systems are developed. Students learn theory by solving problems, determining solutions to problems and analyzing those solutions. In practical reasoning, students study the practicality of software systems by developing software, advancing a prototype solution and determining the software development lifecycle.

For transfer students completing a vocational or technical Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Science degree from a regionally accredited community college, a Bachelor of Applied Science with an emphasis in Computer Science is available. Please contact Carol Spradling (c_sprad@nwmissouri.edu or 660.562.1588) for more information.

Career Opportunities

Recent Northwest graduates have found employment in the following careers:

• IT application analyst
• Database programmer
• Software developer/engineer
• System engineer
• Web developer
• Technology coordinator
• Systems administration
• Database Administrator
• Network Engineer
• Systems Administrator
• Computer Programmer
• Software Architect
• Software Analyst
• Technical Architect

Profession-Based Learning Experiences

Professors encourage practical learning opportunities to prepare students for employment. Students are encouraged to speak to K-12 teachers about the importance of technology in their curriculum and teach computer science fundamentals to students in grades K-12.

The School of Computer Science and Information Systems annually hosts a professional advisory team that includes more than 40 professionals from various industries to review Northwest’s computer science curriculum. Professionals are updated about new technology and ensure the curriculum at Northwest is current with trends.

Founded in 2011, MINK WIC (Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas Women in Computing) enables women to discuss their roles in computing and technology fields and share experiences and strategies for success. In recent years, more than 240 students, educators, and professionals from the region gathered to share their passion for computer science and technology.

Student Organizations

The Association of Computing Machinery promotes interests in computers and applications as well as providing a means of communication for individuals sharing an interest in computers.

The Association of Computing Machinery – Women’s (ACM-W) celebrates, informs and supports women in computing and works with a community of computer scientists, educators, employers and policymakers to improve working and learning environments for women.

Internships

Although internships are not required in the business technology major, they are highly encouraged to gain hands-on, real-world experience.

Study Abroad

Study Abroad is an opportunity for students to apply hands-on international experience to their academic development. Faculty members provide short-term study programs that prepare students before, during and after the program. Two types of study abroad programs are available: faculty-led and traditional study abroad.

The traditional program may be a semester, summer or year-long program and is taught by Northwest’s international partner institutions.

Requirements

The Northwest Core (48-52 hours)

Note: MATH 17117 is the Northwest Core requirement for Math Option A. MATH 17118 is the Northwest Core requirement for Math Option B. Required Courses

Emphasis Areas Choose one or more of the following emphases:

• Data Management Emphasis
• Mobile Computing Emphasis
• Information Assurance and Security Emphasis
• Core Computer Science Emphasis

Established in 1905, Northwest Missouri State University is a state-assisted, comprehensive four-year regional university that also offers a broad range of undergraduate and selected graduate programs on its Maryville campus as well as its Northwest-Kansas City location at the Northland Innovation Center and through Northwest Online.

Northwest offers 127 undergraduate programs and 40 graduate programs. Career Services offers an "Exploring Majors" fair where students may learn about different majors and find a major that is the perfect fit for them. Northwest advocates for profession-based experience in every area of study. At Northwest's Horace Mann Laboratory School, students majoring in education begin observing and practicing in the teaching profession immediately. Other profession-based experiences include work at Northwest's R.T. Wright Farm, radio and television stations, and a variety of internships.