COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts Minor in Computer Science at VIU includes a comprehensive mix of foundational and advanced coursework designed to develop core programming and analytical skills. In Years 1 and 2, students complete essential courses such as CSCI 159 (Computer Science I), CSCI 161 (Computer Science II), CSCI 162 (Topics in Computer Science), CSCI 260 (Data Structures), and CSCI 265 (Software Engineering), which provide a solid understanding of software development, algorithms, and computational thinking. These are supported by mathematics courses like MATH 121 (Calculus I) and MATH 123 (Logic and Foundations), ensuring students gain critical problem-solving and logical reasoning abilities. A minimum “C-” average is required in these 25 credits to progress. In Years 3 and 4, students build on this foundation with CSCI 370 (Database Systems), focusing on data organization, management, and retrieval, along with five additional upper-level CSCI courses (numbered 300 or above), totaling 18 credits. These advanced courses allow students to specialize and explore topics such as web development, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity, depending on their interests. The program offers flexibility to pair computing expertise with other disciplines, making it ideal for students pursuing careers in education, business, creative technology, or research where strong computing skills are an asset.