The CS program emphasizes the concepts and practices of computer science, as well as applications to other disciplines.
Watch a Departmental Video (coming soon) ➤
Typical First-Year Schedule
Fall
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- CSCI 121 or CSCI 125 or PHYS 130
- MATH 220 if you have credit for Calculus I. Otherwise, OLE Core/Elective.
- World Language
january term
- OLE Core/Elective
Spring
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- CSCI 221
- MATH 220 if you have credit for Calculus I or will have completed CSCI 221 in the fall. Otherwise, OLE Core/Elective.
- World Language
Additional Information
No prior experience is needed for the introductory course, CSCI 121.
CS majors must complete CSCI 221 by the end of their sophomore year.
Students are not required/expected to take Calculus I or II as part of the CS major.
Inquire about the CS major early on.
CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS COURSEWORK
- Graduation credit for an AP course (CS-A or CSP) with a 4 or 5 on AP exam.
Placement
- CS placement is a questionnaire (not a test) that advises which CS course a student should take first, based on prior CS and computing background, college preparedness, and academic interests.
- We recommend that all students take the CS placement questionnaire, whether or not they have prior experience in CS.
- Note: Students with prior experience may receive advanced placement even if they haven’t taken a formal CS course.
Informational Events
MSCS “To be or not to be” event in October
CONTACT INFORMATION
Director, Computer Science – Ryota Matsuura (matsuura@stolaf.edu)
Director, Computer Science effective July 1, 2023 – Olaf Hall-Holt (olaf@stolaf.edu)