Computer Science
Studying computer science at Rollins is about far more than learning to code. Sure, you’ll develop expertise in all core areas of computer science, from programming in multiple languages and the fundamental math of computation to the best practices of modern software development. But at Rollins, you’ll also acquire a suite of 21st-century skills—from critical thinking and creative problem solving to effective communication and ethical decision making—that will prepare you to lead change in our fast-evolving world.
Along the way, you’ll learn by doing, honing your know-how through collaborative research, community engagement, and cutting-edge internships—all under the watchful eye of expert faculty. You’ll emerge with a powerful collection of competencies that will put you in high demand among the world’s leading tech companies and the country’s most prestigious grad programs.
Why Study Computer Science at Rollins
The Value of Teamwork
The stereotype that computer scientists work in isolation is a myth. Rollins professors emphasize collaboration in each class and every project.
Interactive Learning
Starting with your first programming course, you’ll grow through doing. Faculty rarely lecture, instead discussing how to use techniques while you literally have your hands on the task.
Fully Prepared for a Career
The professors' mission is to shape your college experience for the career you envision. The evidence is that graduates go directly from Rollins to PhD programs and positions with major tech companies.
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“The challenges of certain projects exposed me to the very real necessity of working in a team. Don’t get me wrong. We weren’t coddled in our projects. In fact, I believe we were strategically placed to create some discomfort, which encouraged everyone to grow and experience true collaboration.”
Rollins Computer Science Careers
Rollins computer science grads are making tomorrow happen at some of the world’s most innovative companies.
Carmen Cheng '18
Site Reliability Engineer, Apple
Alexandra DeLucia ’18
PhD Candidate, Johns Hopkins University
Hannah Holman '18
Software Engineer, Electronic Arts
Michael Gutensohn ’18
MA Candidate, University of California, Berkeley
Shree Raj Shresta '17
Software Development Engineer, Amazon
Ruzgar Zere ’18
MA Candidate, Cornell Tech
Real World Experience
From community engagement courses to internships and research, computer science students hone their skills in the real world.
Popular Courses
The faculty’s personal focus on each student and collaboration with an advisory council comprised of leading industry professionals allows them to continually adjust the computer science courses to align with leading trends.
CMS 270
Object-Oriented Design and Development
You’ll use your programming toolbox to figure out new ways to program anything from a coffee pot to a video game. The small class size allows an emphasis on agile development.
CMS 430
Artificial Intelligence
Learn about language and modeling for artificial intelligence systems. By understanding the social impact of AI from the inside, you’ll be on the cutting edge of this rapidly advancing technology.
CMS 380
Simulation Design and Analysis
Central Florida is ripe with opportunities to use statistical methods in the development of basic simulation structures—military contractors, theme parks, and the medical field are a few.
CMS 490
Security
Cyber security is a hot topic in the computer industry—and will be in the future. So the faculty implemented this course to allow students to face the issue head on with hands-on projects.
CMS 484
Computer Science Capstone
Work on a team to solve a real-life problem with your own program. Recent projects have included automated systems for ordering food in your dorm and for improving parking on campus.
CMS 495
Computational Photography
On the surface, this class looks to give students experience with new photo-manipulation methods. At its core, the lessons in design and problem solving transcend photography.
A Day in the Life of a Rollins Computer Science Major
“Rollins helps you figure out what you really care about and gives you the tools and opportunities you need to make your mark in the world.”
Beyond the Classroom
High-Profile Internships Former Rollins students have blazed a path for future Rollins students at places like Lockheed Martin, NASA, Amazon, Dell, and the Harris Corporation. Mentors at these corporations now actively seek Rollins students.
Study Abroad Rollins instructors groom students to engage in global educational experiences in Germany, Japan, England, Australia, and Spain, among other countries. Professors at universities abroad say Rollins students are among the most capable in their programs.
Summer Research Opportunities Whether through the competitive Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) funded by the National Science Foundation or on-campus projects through our Student-Faculty Collaborative Scholarship Program, our students have the chance to engage in a variety of high-level research.
Expert Faculty
Our computer science faculty hold terminal degrees in the field, but at Rollins, your professors are more than experts. They are passionate teachers, collaborative partners, and meaningful mentors who are committed to helping you discover your passions and to creating opportunities for you to put your ideas to work in the world.
Department of Math & Computer Science
Bush Science Center
1000 Holt Ave. – 2743
Winter Park, FL 32789
T. 407.646.2432
F. 407.646.2479
Rochelle Elva, PhD
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Research interests: Software clone detection, computer simulations, cyber security, program analysis, personal software process
Krishna P. Kadiyala, PhD
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Research interests: Software-defined networking, smart cities, unmanned aerial vehicles, and the Internet of Things
Dan Myers, PhD
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Research interests: Computer performance modeling and queuing theory; data analytics for community nonprofits and social innovation
Valerie Summet, PhD
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Research interests: Human-computer interaction, assistive technology, computer science education