Computer Science is the study of theory and practice of computation. A computer scientist creates new hardware and software that is more efficient, effective, and reliable. At SUNY Brockport, the Advanced Computing (AC) and the Software Development (SD) Tracks of the Computer Science (CSC) major train students in lasting fundamental principles of computing, with appropriate exposure to modern hardware/software products and applications. Computer Information Systems, on the other hand, is the study of the use of computers for systematic organization of data that supports efficient and accurate collection, processing, analysis, and retrieval of information. An information system specialist applies existing technology to solve real world problems.
At Brockport, the Computer Information Systems (CIS) major trains students in state-of-the-art computing technology, applications and business practices, with appropriate exposure to underlying fundamentals. Cybersecurity focuses on the creation, operation, analysis, and testing of secure computer systems, networks, and online data from attack and compromise by integrating knowledge from Information Systems, Computer Science, and Criminal Justice. The department also offers a Master of Science in Computing Sciences, which allows graduate students to build foundational and advanced skills in areas such as information systems, programming, security, Cybersecurity, Human Computer Interaction, and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Thus, CSC, CIS, CYB, and graduate Computing Sciences courses offered by the department are complementary in their focus of study.
Advanced Computing (AC) Track of the Computer Science Major
The Advanced Computing Track of the Computer Science major is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The emphasis is on computer problem solving and the development of new software and hardware.
Requirements: 48 credits of computer science (computer programming, computer organization, programming languages, algorithms and data structures, operating systems, software engineering, theory of computation, etc.); 15 credits of mathematics (calculus, discrete mathematics, probability and statistics); 8 credits of physical sciences (physics, chemistry, etc.); 25 credits of humanities, social sciences and fine arts. This track is recommended for students with a strong preparation in mathematics and science.
Typical job titles: Computer Programmer, Software Developer, Software Engineer, Software Security Specialist, Software Quality Assurance Engineer, and Web Developer.
Software Development (SD) Track of the Computer Science Major
The curriculum is based on national models such as ACM-78 published by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), and its subsequent revisions (CC 2001). The emphasis is on computer problem solving and the development of new software and hardware.
Requirements: 48 credits of computer science (computer programming, computer organization, programming languages, algorithms and data structures, etc.); 11 credits of mathematics (calculus, discrete mathematics). The requirement for the software development track is a subset of the requirement for the AC Track. This track is recommended for transfer students and double majors with interest in software development.
Typical job titles:Computer Applications Programmer, Network/Database Administrator, Software Tester, and Web Developer.
Computer Information Systems (CIS) Major
The Computer Information Systems major is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The emphasis is on the use of computers in an organization to increase effectiveness and efficiency.
Requirements: 49 credits of computer and information science (computer programming, information technology hardware and software, systems analysis, databases, networks, project management, etc.); 7 credits of mathematics (statistics, discrete mathematics); 15 credits of information systems environment; 32 credits of humanities, social sciences and fine arts. This track is recommended for students with a strong interest in business applications of computing.
Typical job titles: Database Designer, IT Support, Network Administrator, Project Manager, Security Specialist, Systems Analyst, and Web Designer.
Cybersecurity (CYB) Major
The Cybersecurity major focuses on the creation, operation, analysis, and testing of secure computer systems, networks, and online data from attack and compromise. The program integrates knowledge from Information Systems, Computer Science, and Criminal Justice. Students learn to troubleshoot and identify potential security lapses through both classroom instruction and hands-on computer lab sessions.
Requirements: 51 credits of major department requirements, including cybersecurity fundamentals, Python programming, ethical hacking, enterprise security and firewalls, database and web security, information assurance and incident response, computer networks, computer and network security, web development, computing, and senior seminar; 7 credits of mathematics (statistics and discrete mathematics); 6 credits of Criminal Justice corequisites; and general education courses required for the Bachelor of Science degree.
Typical job titles: Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Specialist, Information Security Analyst, Network Security Administrator, Incident Response Analyst, Security Operations Center Analyst, and Digital Forensics Specialist.
Computing Sciences (MS)
The Master of Science in Computing Sciences prepares technology specialists to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The program allows students to first build foundational skills through courses in information systems, programming, and security. Students then develop advanced knowledge in areas such as Cybersecurity, Human Computer Interaction, and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Students complete the program through either a thesis or a practicum option.
Requirements: 30 graduate credits, including 15 credits of 500-level core coursework and 15 additional credits through either a thesis option or a practicum option. The program includes courses in information systems, programming, security, advanced cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and related areas.
Typical job titles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist, Information Systems Specialist, Data Analyst, AI/ML Specialist, User Experience Specialist, Project Manager, and Technology Consultant.
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Fast Facts (as of Spring 2026)
- 11 full-time faculty members; 6 with doctoral degrees, two with MS in Computer Science
- One new full-time faculty members with doctoral degrees to join in Fall 2026
- Three part-time faculty members 298 majors 40 students graduated in 2024-2025
- Small class size; lower-level classes 30-40 and upper-level classes 10-30
- Four students completed honors theses.
- One student group presented a poster at the SUNY Undergraduate Research Conference (SURC).
- One student completed an industry-based project with employer partner, AT Corp.
- Students presented or published peer-reviewed work at external venues:
- One group at the Niagara Falls Symposium
- One group at CCSCNE
- Three groups at HCII 2026
- One group at SURP
- Cybersecurity Club participated in regional Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions:
- 8th place out of 42 teams at BSides Rochester
- 3rd place out of 40 teams at BSides Buffalo
- 10 students presented at SUNY Brockport Scholar’s Day (2026)