Computer Science

Degree Type Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Science
Department Computer Science
Academic Division The College
Offerings
The study of computer science at W&L provides a foundation in fundamental, invariant principles and practices of the discipline. These include problem analysis, algorithm design and the selection of appropriate theoretical models, software systems and hardware systems for implementing computational solutions to problems, as well as the historical, social, legal and ethical context of computing.

Why Study Computer Science at W&L?

Computing has transformed life. Advances in computing have enabled breakthroughs in genetics, protein modeling, medicine, weather simulations and all scientific fields. Video games and movie graphics are increasingly realistic. Children acquire various skills using fun, educational software. The Internet has revolutionized commerce, transportation and communication. Policies and laws have been reimagined to account for the new world created in cyberspace.

As a general-purpose discipline, computer science attracts students from all types of backgrounds. The projects they work on are limited only by the human imagination. With a solid foundation in computer science, W&L students have the knowledge and skills to tackle tomorrow’s challenges. Since computing is integral to so many other disciplines, some students pursue computer science along with another major.

Honors Program

The Honors Program in computer science is an enrichment opportunity for students who demonstrate superior achievement in computer science. Honors work consists of research for and preparation of an honors thesis, followed by a presentation of the completed thesis at a departmental seminar to which the public is invited.

Research and Internship Opportunities

Students may pursue individual or team-based research projects under faculty supervision in many specialized areas, during either the summer or the academic year. Such projects have often led to honors theses and placements in highly selective graduate programs. Our students are encouraged to intern during the summer to gain industry experience at government labs and at small and large companies.

Carolyn Wingrove-Moore

Administrative Assistant
P: 540-458-8151
E: wingrove-moorec@wlu.edu

Kenneth Lambert

Department Head
P: 540-458-8809
E: lambertk@wlu.edu

Sample Courses

At W&L, we believe education and experience go hand-in-hand. You'll be encouraged to dive in, explore and discover connections that will broaden your perspective.
CSCI 315

Artificial Intelligence

Basic concepts of heuristic search, game playing, natural language processing and intelligent systems, with a focus on writing programs in these areas. Course combines a discussion of philosophical issues with hands-on problem solving.

CSCI 209

Software Development

An examination of the theories and design techniques used in software development. Topics include the software life cycle, design patterns, the Unified Modeling Language, unit testing, refactoring, rapid prototyping and program documentation.

CSCI 313

Theory of Computation

A study of the principles of computer science embodied in formal languages, automata, computability and computational complexity. Topics include context-free grammars, Turing machines and the halting problem.

CSCI 319

Video Game Design

In this course, students learn to design and program video games using Python and the Pygame module. Concepts covered include video game code organization utilizing object-oriented programming, OOP design patterns, 2D animation, artificial intelligence and responding to user feedback.

Meet the Faculty

At W&L, students enjoy small classes and close relationships with professors who educate and nurture.
Kenneth Lambert Head, Department of Computer Science; Professor of Computer Science
Lambert teaches courses in programming, software development and mobile application development. He is also a member of the Philosophy Department and teaches courses on the philosophy of history and Hegel.
Simon Levy Professor of Computer Science
Levy teaches courses on artificial intelligence, neural networks, and robotics. His current research involves high-fidelity simulation of autonomous aerial vehicles (drones).
Kefu Lu Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Lu teaches introductory computer science, courses in computer science theory, and upper-level electives in parallel computing and big data analysis from both a data science and computer science perspective. He researches how to best harness the power of complex systems.
Elizabeth A. (Liz) Matthews Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Matthews' research interests include video game design, measuring enjoyment of digital media, and procedural content generation. She teaches courses in programming, software development and video game design.
Cody Watson Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Watson teaches applications of deep learning in software engineering and the progression of software 2.0. Has recently been exploring the applications of software methodologies to deep learning-based solutions.
Sara Sprenkle Associate Professor of Computer Science
Sprenkle teaches courses in programming, software development, and upper-level electives in software engineering. Her research focuses on automatically testing web applications to make sure they are behaving properly.