Computer science program continues

Computer science program continues at EOU

News contact: Laura Hancock | University Advancement
541-962-3585 | lhancock@eou.edu

File photo / Software development, programming and systems analysis are among high-demand careers EOU graduates are prepared to pursue.

July 15, 2014
LA GRANDE, Ore. (EOU) – Eastern Oregon University will continue to offer a degree in computer science to support the region’s economic development and STEM education priorities.

Interim EOU President Jay Kenton reinstated the program after it was identified for possible elimination in the university’s Financial Sustainability Plan released June 9.

“Computer science is a critical program for our region and state and we need it at EOU,” Kenton said. “With a growing technology industry and increasing demand in this field, it’s more important now than ever that we develop professionals with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering and math. EOU can deliver on that priority with incredible educational quality and grow the regional economy with programs like this and others.”

Students may complete either a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts in computer science, preparing them for work in software development, programming and systems analysis. A computer science minor is also available and two certificates in computer programming are offered.

Program faculty are Richard Croft, associate professor of computer science, and Aaron Boudreaux, assistant professor of computer science.

“There’s a demand for computer science majors right here, right now in eastern Oregon,” Croft said. “We have an outstanding program at EOU and want to grow. Many of our graduates work in the surrounding local areas, but others have gone on to graduate school or employment all over the world.”

Students from as far away as Japan, Tajikistan, Bulgaria, Mariana Islands and Micronesia have completed the program. Croft said a graduate from the Oregon coast is now pursuing two master’s degrees simultaneously after moving to New Zealand.

“The background our students receive makes them ready for the demands of today’s advanced technology, from agriculture to space exploration,” Croft added.

For more information about EOU’s computer science program visit www.eou.edu/cas/smt/cs or e-mail Croft at rcroft@eou.edu.