Computer Science

Robert Geitz, Professor of Computer Science, Department Chair
Albert Borroni, Lecturer in Computer Science
Stephen Checkoway, Assistant Professor in Computer Science
Adam Eck, Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Roberto Hoyle, Assistant Professor in Computer Science
Dylan McKay, Visiting Instructor of Computer Science
Samuel Taggart, Assistant Professor in Computer Science
Cynthia Taylor, Assistant Professor in Computer Science
Richard M. Salter, Professor Emeritus of Computer Science

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Computer Science encompasses both the theoretical and the practical aspects of the study of computers and algorithmic processes. Students majoring in computer science at Oberlin are prepared both for graduate study in the discipline and careers in industry and business. Computer Science at Oberlin is taught within the context of a liberal arts degree, with emphasis on the lasting principles of the discipline rather than on specific training in particular tools and techniques. The CS Department stresses the fundamentals of computer science while maintaining a highly current and relevant curriculum utilizing state-of-the-art methodologies and tools. More detailed information about the Computer Science major and minor can be found below.

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Advanced Placement

Students who have received a score of 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Computer Science A examination in Computer Science or a 5, 6 or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level examination in Computer Science are normally awarded 1 full course equivalent to CSCI 150 and are encouraged to enroll in CSCI 151 in their first semester. Other students who believe they have sufficient preparation to begin their study of Computer Science in a course other than CSCI 150 should consult with the Chair of the department to discuss appropriate placement.

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Majors and Minors

Entry-Level Course Sequence Suggestions

Most students who wish to study Computer Science or who wish to explore programming and algorithmic problem-solving should begin with CSCI 150. This course does not assume any prior experience with programming and is appropriate for both potential majors and non-majors. Students who seek a more gentle introduction to programming and problem-solving may take CSCI 140; those who do so should be aware that if they decide to continue their study of Computer Science after taking CSCI 140 they will still need to take CSCI 150.

Since the requirements for the major in Computer Science are substantial, students planning to major in the discipline are encouraged to begin the coursework in their first year at Oberlin taking CSCI 150 and CSCI 151 along with MATH 133.

Students who would like to explore Computer Science without studying it in great depth may be interested in the entries listed below in the section “Courses in General Computing”.