Computer scientists are constantly constructing and using abstractions - generalizations that capture the essence of entire families of specific phenomena. In this regard, computer scientists resemble mathematicians. However, computer science differs in that abstraction is used as a technique for designing concrete artifacts. In short, computer science is a discipline of concrete abstractions. Computer scientists do many things.
Outsiders frequently think that computer scientists write programs.
Among those entering the workforce, the three largest categories of employers are information systems consulting firms, insurance companies, and software developers. The Major This section lists the requirements of the CS major, provides a graphical illustration of the prerequisite structure of the major CS courses, lists sample student plans, and describes the senior oral which is an optional component of the major. Qualified majors may additionally participate in the honors program, which is described in the next section. Senior Oral As described above, every CS major must either take an additional upper-level CS course from a specified list or alternatively submit to oral examination during the Spring semester of their final year. A student who chooses to take the oral examination selects, in consultation with a faculty member, a topic to research.