Computing Majors at the University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a wide range of options for students who wish to study the discipline of computing. Students may pursue their studies in three distinct programs:

Computer Science
Computer Engineering (An option in Electrical and Computer Engineering)
Management Information Systems

Today, there are approximately one thousand students enrolled in these three programs. All three programs have computing as their central theme. The specific approach and viewpoint regarding how computing is utilized within each discipline separates these three programs. A brief description of each program is given below:

Computer Science: This program focuses on the science of computing. It looks at the software and hardware systems associated with computing, applications, as well as the theoretical foundations of the discipline. It provides students with a broad-based education in the field of computing.

Computer Engineering: This program examines the hardware (and software) aspects of computing systems, providing a sound foundation for entry into the engineering profession.  While spending significant time with hardware, the program also emphasizes the design and study of computer software and its applications in an engineering environment.

Management Information Systems: The MIS program provides students with the computing and business skills necessary to apply information technology to solve business problems. MIS students learn to develop business systems that give organizations, from large-scale multi-national firms to new dot-coms, a competitive advantage.

It is important to realize that The University does not expect entering freshmen have a good understanding of each of these disciplines and their differences, and know which of these majors to pursue. As a result, the three programs have worked together to build a "common core" of computing classes that all three majors take. The first three programming classes, all taught by the Computer Science department, are required for all three programs. Thus, students who enter the University in one field, yet realize after a semester or two that their interests lie in another area, may change majors without being penalized with respect to the courses they must complete.