2022-2023 University of Wyoming Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
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5068 Engineering Building, (307) 766‑2279
FAX: (307) 766-2248
Web site: www.uwyo.edu/electrical and www.uwyo.edu/cosc
Professors:
STEVEN F. BARRETT, B.S. University of Nebraska 1979; M.E. University of Idaho 1986; Ph.D. University of Texas 1993; Professor of Electrical Engineering 2011, 1999.
RUBEN GAMBOA, B.S. Angelo State University 1984; M.C.S. Texas A&M University 1986; Ph.D. The University of Texas 1999; Professor of Computer Science 2015, 2002.
JOHN M. HITCHCOCK, B.S. Iowa State University 1999; M.S. 2001; Ph.D. 2003; Professor of Computer Science 2015, 2003.
JOHN E. McINROY, B.S. University of Wyoming 1986; M.S. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 1988; Ph.D. 1991; Professor of Electrical Engineering 2002, 1991.
SURESH S. MUKNAHALLIPATNA, B.E. University of Bangalore, India 1988; M.E. 1991; Ph.D. University of Wyoming 1995; Professor of Electrical Engineering 2010, 1997.
JOHN W. PIERRE, B.S. Montana State University 1986; M.S. University of Minnesota 1989; Ph.D. 1991; Professor of Electrical Engineering 2002, 1991.
CAMERON H.G. WRIGHT, B.S. Louisiana Tech University 1983; M.S. Purdue University 1988; Ph.D. University of Texas 1996; Professor of Electrical Engineering 2016, 2003.
Associate Professors:
AMY BANIC, B.S. Duquesne University 2003; M.S. University of North Carolina 2005; Ph.D. 2008; Associate Professor of Computer Science 2012, 2010.
MIKE BOROWCZAK, B.S. University of Cincinnati 2007; Ph.D. 2013; Associate Professor of Computer Science 2022.
DONGLIANG DUAN, B.E. Huazhong University of Science and Technology 2006; M.S. University of Florida 2009; Ph.D. Colorado State University 2012; Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering 2019, 2012.
EVA S. FERRE-PIKAL, B.S. University of Puerto Rico 1988; M.S. University of Michigan 1989; Ph.D. University of Colorado 1996; Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering 2004, 1998.
JOHN F. O’BRIEN, B.S. California State Polytechnic University, Pomona 1991; M.S. University of Wyoming 1997; Ph.D. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 2001; Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering 2009, 2003.
JON M. PIKAL, B.S. Purdue University 1988; M.S. University of Colorado 1993; Ph.D. Colorado State University 1999; Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering 2005, 1999.
Assistant Professors:
CHAO JIANG, B.E. Chongqing University 2009; Ph.D. Stevens Institute of Technology 2019; Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering 2019.
LARS KOTTHOFF, Diplom (M.Sc.) University of Leipzig 2007; Ph.D. University of St. Andrews 2012; Assistant Professor of Computer Science 2017.
NGA NGUYEN, B.S. Hanoi University of Science and Technology 2005; M.S. 2007; Ph.D. Michigan State University 2017; Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering 2018.
DIKSHA SHUKLA, B.S. Kanpur University 2008; M.C.A. Jawaharlal Nehru University 2011; M.S. Louisiana Tech University 2014; Ph.D. Syracuse University 2019; Assistant Professor of Computer Science 2019.
Senior Lecturer:
JAMES S. WARD, B.S. University of Wyoming 1993; M.S. 1997; Senior Lecturer of Computer Science 2011, 2000.
Associate Lecturer:
KIM BUCKNER, B.S. Chapman University 1993; M.S. University of Tennessee, Knoxville 1998; Ph.D. 2003; Associate Lecturer of Computer Science 2014, 2008.
Adjunct Faculty:
Robin Hill, Elena Oggero, Guido Pagnacco
Professors Emeriti:
Thomas A. Bailey, Jr., Mark Balas, Henry R. Bauer III, James L. Caldwell, Christos T. Constantinides, John R. Cowles, Jerry J. Cupal, Clifford D. Ferris, Jerry Hamann, Raymond G. Jacquot, Robert F. Kubichek, Stanislaw Legowski, John Rowland, John W. Steadman, A.H.M. Sadrul Ula, David Whitman
Lecturer Emeritus:
Jeri R. Hanly
Computer Science
A Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) in Computer Science prepares students for careers in virtually any industry or to continue on with graduate study in Computer Science and many other fields. Computer science students learn to approach problems from a computational (algorithmic) point of view, and this approach to problem solving often leads to better and more general solutions. Software systems, information technology, and large scale data applications are core technologies in every area and the applications continue to grow with software and information systems becoming more and more embedded in the fabric of everyday life. These systems are essential tools in science and engineering, for business and finance, government, communications, medicine, and entertainment. Software systems make the world go round and smart devices, such as phones, tablets, glasses, wearable devices, medical implants are ubiquitous. As a result, computer science has grown from a specialized field to an independent, broadly based area that studies all aspects of the use and understanding of software systems, information, and computational processes. Students studying B.S. in Computer Science at the University of Wyoming have the option to focus their studies by taking a concentration in Business, Big Data, or the Cybersecurity certificate. The Cybersecurity certificate captures core technical cyber security foundations and principles, from databases and networks to advanced threat detection and mitigation. All of the Computer Science concentrations lead to a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and all programs are ABET accredited.
Program Objectives
The following are the objectives that the Computer Science program is preparing its graduates to achieve:
Success: Graduates will be employed in a computer science-related field or making progress toward an advanced graduate degree.
Growing: Graduates show continued learning and leading in computing-related professions.
Ethics: Graduates exhibit ethical and responsible behavior in all professional and community endeavors.
Program Learning Outcomes
The program of study in Computer Science enables students to achieve, by the time of graduation:
- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
Graduate Study - Computer Science
The Department offers graduate work leading to the Master of Science degree in computer science and the Doctor of Philosophy in computer science. The Department also offers a graduate minor in computer science.
Program Specific Admission Requirement
Applicants for a graduate degree in computer science are expected to have completed undergraduate courses in Algorithms and Data Structures (COSC 3020 equivalent), Theory of Computing (COSC 4100 or COSC 4200 equivalent), Operating Systems (COSC 4740 equivalent), and Programming languages or Compilers (COSC 4780 or COSC 4785 equivalent). Applicants to the doctoral program must have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline at an accredited university or college.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required of all applicants. GRE scores are required with minimums of 40th percentile for the verbal score and 65th percentile for the quantitative score. Our strongest students tend to have scores substantially above these minimums, with quantitative scores often around the 90th percentile or higher.
Students whose native language is not English must also complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a score of at least 550 on the paper based TOEFL; 213 on the computerized test including a 58 or better in section 1-Reading; 80 for the Internet based TOEFL (iBT) including a score of 23 or better in section 1-Reading or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test with a 6.5 score or better. Students may also use the Duolingo exam, with a minimum of 105 overall and 125 in the Literacy section.
You must submit to the online application system contact information for three references that can evaluate your potential for graduate study in computer science. If you wish to pursue a Ph.D., the letters should address your ability to pursue quality original research. Letters should also evaluate your oral and written communication skills.
If you meet the minimum criteria and would like to formally apply for admission you will also need to submit the following information during the completion of your application via the application portal:
Copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities (minimum GPA or equivalent 3.000 on a scale of 4.000) for all degrees attained. International applicants must submit copies of individual semester transcripts, consolidated transcripts will not be accepted.
Copy of GRE scores a minimum percentile of 40% on verbal and 65% on quantitative portions of the exam. The majority of admitted students tend to have scores substantially above these minimums.
Contact information for three recommendation letters (applicants should follow-up with recommenders to ensure this requirement is fulfilled; applications will not be processed further until all recommendations have been received).
International students will also need to submit a copy of TOEFL scores, IELTS scores, or Duolingo scores.
High performing undergraduates in computer science can elect for Quick Start admission to the graduate program, allowing the sharing of up to six credit hours of 5000-level coursework toward the completion of both the B.S. and the graduate degree programs.
Electrical Engineering
The program of study outlined in the curriculum has been planned to provide the depth of understanding necessary to meet challenges of changing technology while being flexible enough to allow students to pursue in-depth study in at least one area of electrical engineering. In order to attain this, students are required to gain an understanding of mathematics and the basic engineering sciences. The fundamental electrical engineering education consists of courses in circuits, networks, electromagnetics, electronics, digital systems, communications, controls and energy conversion. Selection of elective courses, in consultation with the academic adviser, enables students to specialize in the above mentioned areas, as well as in robotics, microcircuits, microprocessors and high frequency electronics.
Laboratory work associated with electrical engineering courses is an important part of the curricula. This work helps students gain experience in applying the theoretical knowledge they acquire to practical engineering problems. Engineering design is an important component of the curriculum that concludes with a significant design experience in the senior year. Additional programs are described below.
F.M. Long Bioengineering Option. Named in honor of UW Professor Francis M. Long, this area offers excellent opportunities for those interested in applying the techniques of the electronic engineer to problems of environmental science, biology and medicine. Employment opportunities exist in state and federal agencies, industry and medical institutions. Career placement includes such areas as environmental monitoring, design and development of biological and medical instrumentation and clinical engineering. With minor modifications, the curriculum shown may be used as preparation for entrance to medical or dental school.
Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering is a blend of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. In fact, a Computer Engineering student can change majors to Computer Science within the first three semesters without losing any credits. More careful planning is required to switch from Computer Science to Computer Engineering. Computer Engineering students receive training that allows them to design complex computer systems and embed them in custom applications such as robots, spacecraft, automobiles, etc. A typical system may interface with a sensor to measure the world, then decide how to best use the information to achieve goals and eventually turn on actuators which perform the needed task. They also develop computer vision systems, high performance computers and software, and the internet of things. They take many of the same required courses as Electrical Engineers, but fill in their electives with computer specific courses. Graduates have the ability to design electric circuits, understand network hardware, design computer systems, and write the software inside those systems. Compared to Electrical Engineers, Computer Engineers have less breadth of knowledge in Electrical Engineering but more depth in software and computer hardware. Compared to Computer Scientists, Computer Engineers know much more about hardware and signal/system theory. Computer Engineers sometimes also major in either Electrical Engineering or Computer Science to get two degrees.
Grade Policy
Electrical and computer engineering majors must achieve a grade of C (2.000) or better on courses that are prerequisites for courses within the student’s course of study. Students must also achieve a grade of C (2.000) or better in all required mathematics courses.
Concurrent Major and Minor
The department offers a concurrent major and minor in both the electrical engineering and computer engineering programs. Consult the department office for a current detailed list of requirements.
Program Educational Objectives for Electrical and Computer Engineering
Graduates of the University of Wyoming Electrical and Computer Engineering Program will:
- Be able to successfully practice the profession of Electrical or Computer Engineering.
- Be prepared and motivated to accept challenging assignments and responsibilities and be productive members of society.
- Demonstrate successful career growth (e.g., professional registration, graduate school, promotion and advancement, patents, publications).
University of Wyoming, Electrical and Computer Engineering Program, Student Outcomes
All Electrical (Computer) Engineering graduates shall demonstrate:
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
- an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
- an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
- an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
- an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
- an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
Graduate Program - Electrical Engineering
The department offers programs of study leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in electrical engineering. Study programs are individually planned to students’ interests in both course work and research. The areas of major concentration at the graduate level are:
- Bio-Engineering
- Controls
- Electrical Energy Systems
- Electronic Systems and Devices
- Robotics
- Signal Processing and Computer Networks
The department also offers a combined B.S./M.S. program for exceptional students wishing to obtain both degrees in a shorter period of time.
Program Specific Admission Requirements
Statement of purpose
Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
GRE verbal percentile minimum of 45 percent. GRE quantitative percentile minimum of 65 percent.
TOEFL total of 79 iBT or IELTS total 6.5.
Program Specific Graduate Assistantships
Additionally, all international students who are state-funded teaching assistantships or any international student with teaching responsibilities are required to complete an Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI). Students will need to follow the recommendations to improve their English skills. Students on state-funding who fail to follow the recommendations or do not meet the minimum proficiency by the end of their first semester will not be able to receive any state-funding until they have demonstrated proficiency.
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