CORE

Samuel Sambasivam, PhD
Coordinator and Professor of Computer Science Data Analytics

Introduction

Woodbury University offers four distinct degree programs in computing, each applying core computing principles within a specialized context:

• Computer Information Systems (CIS): Integrates computing with business operations and decision-making.
• Computer Science in Data Analytics (CSDA): Combines mathematical foundations with computing to analyze and interpret data.
• Applied Computer Science – Media Arts (ACSM): Merges computing with creative practices in digital media.
• Computational Design (DC): Applies computing to architectural design and digital fabrication.

Overview

Overview

The Core Curriculum at Woodbury University challenges students to engage with new ideas and critically examine their assumptions. Through a rigorous and interdisciplinary sequence, students are encouraged to explore, experiment, reason, and grow—both personally and intellectually—while gaining a deeper understanding of their place in the world.

The Core Curriculum includes five foundational courses:
• CORE 101
• CORE 102
• CORE 201
• MATH 252
• CORE 301

Mission

The STEM-CS Core Curriculum is central to the department’s mission, emphasizing the development of responsible leaders equipped to thrive in a global, technology-driven society. Rooted in the principles of Computer Science, the curriculum ensures all students—regardless of their chosen major or electives—receive a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences.

This Core Curriculum serves as a developmental framework that supports students throughout their undergraduate journey. It fosters interdisciplinary thinking and prepares them to apply technical knowledge ethically, creatively, and effectively in diverse real-world contexts.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the program will demonstrate:

1. The ability to analyze problems and define requirements appropriate to their solutions within the context of the discipline.
2. The ability to design, implement, and evaluate computer-based solutions that meet specified requirements.
3. The ability to communicate technical information effectively to diverse audiences.
4. The ability to make informed decisions in computing practice, considering legal, ethical, and societal impacts.
5. The ability to work effectively in teams to set goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risks, and deliver results.
6. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge to the design, implementation, and evaluation of computing solutions.
7. The ability to reason about and explain computing solutions across multiple levels of abstraction.
8. The ability to learn and adapt to emerging tools, technologies, and techniques in the rapidly evolving field of computing.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the program will be able to:
1. Apply algorithmic, mathematical, and scientific reasoning to solve a variety of computational problems.
2. Design, implement correctly, and document solutions to significant computing challenges.
3. Analyze and evaluate alternative approaches to solving computing problems.
4. Develop software systems that meet defined design and performance specifications.
5. Collaborate effectively in teams to design and implement computing solutions.
6. Communicate technical concepts clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
7. Recognize and address the social, ethical, and professional responsibilities of computing practitioners.