Associate Professor
M.S., Kent State University
Computer Science Department
Andrew Watkins
Chair and Associate Professor, Computer Science Department
(440) 826-2396, anwatkin@bw.edu
Share
OVERVIEW
Today’s technology-driven communication relies on the strategic thinking and creative problem solving of computer science professionals.
BW’s computer science major is a rigorous program that combines theoretical study in computer science and mathematics with applied learning in areas such as software development, database systems and systems design.
The program provides a strong foundation for addressing current technologies and adapting to new ones as they emerge.
Hands-on learning is inherent to the major. Complex projects provide you with opportunities to gain insights and skills for applying creativity, critical thinking and problem solving to creating solutions for PC, web and mobile platforms. A required senior research project provides insight into how cutting-edge techniques and technologies are explored.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
- Software engineer
- Web developer/engineer
- Computer programmer
- Database developer
- Consultant
- Computer science researcher
-
In and Out of the Classroom
BW computer science students benefit from small class sizes and learning opportunities to work one-on-one or in small groups with their professors.
-
State-of-the-Art STEM Center
BW's Knowlton Center provides students with innovative learning experiences in engineering, mathematics, computer science and physics that will enable them to explore cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, mathematical modeling and simulation, robotics and optics while connecting with industry leaders.

Careers on the Rise
Employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Combined BS/MBA
An optional five-year BS/MBA program combines a computer science major with a minor in business administration and an MBA degree. This program prepares graduates for positions in computer and information systems management that require a strong technical background, good communication skills and in-depth understanding of the business world.
Expand Your Studies
Students interested in the computer science major may also be interested in cybersecurity analyst, software engineering and interactive design.
CURRICULUM
Offered as a major and a minor, computer science prepares you for immediate employment or to enter graduate programs in computer science, operations research, computers in management or other related fields.
The common core of all the programs in BW’s computer science department includes programming and problem solving as well as exposure to the mathematics, computer architecture, paradigms and theory that underlie the computing discipline.
The computer science major prepares students to:
- Apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
- Analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs
- Function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal
- Understand professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
- Communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- Analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
- Recognize the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
- Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice
- Apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the trade-offs involved in design choices
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of carrying complexity

Course Descriptions
Course descriptions, requirements for the major and additional information can be found in the University Catalog.
STUDENT EXPERIENCES
Small class sizes, individual attention and faculty mentoring are at the core of BW's computer science program. Internships, field experiences, independent study projects, undergraduate research and co-curricular activities offer real-world learning.
INTERNSHIPS/FIELD EXPERIENCES
BW’s 20-minute proximity to Cleveland puts you within easy access to technology firms, corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. A high demand for computer science skills often enables students to secure internships early in their academic careers, sometimes as soon as the summer following freshman year. Most students have multiple internships prior to graduation.
INDEPENDENT STUDY
Independent study offers students enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom for individualized and advanced study. Students work one-on-one with a faculty member.
RESEARCH
In addition to curriculum-based research opportunities, students can get involved with ongoing research work through the Faculty Student Collaboration program.
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Personally and professionally rewarding, student organizations and activities foster skills in leadership and teamwork. Opportunities include:
ACM Student Chapter
This computer club sponsors the annual Baldwin Wallace University High School Programming Competition each April, hosts speakers and organizes several social events, including LAN parties and more.
Programming Team
Student teams compete in several intercollegiate programming contests each year.
Cyber Defense Team
This organization is comprised of students interested in network issues. They meet regularly with a faculty member to discuss topics of interest and work on special projects related to computer networks. Members of this group compete in the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.
Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program
The BW Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program is open to Ohio residents who are entering Baldwin Wallace in the fall as a first-year student or transfer student and are interested in computer science. Students are eligible to apply to the program which also offers the Choose Ohio First scholarship, awarding annual, renewable scholarships of up to $5,000.
Student Achievements
Computer science students are regularly recognized for their achievements. The UPE National Computer Science Honorary is a national organization for juniors and seniors who have excelled in their computer studies.
At the annual Honors Ceremony in the spring, recognitions include:
- The Anthony and Patricia Lauria Scholarship in Computer Science and Information Systems (in honor of Dr. Anthony Lauria, a professor of mathematics and computer science 1984-2002, and Patricia Kirby Lauria ’91).
- The Charles and Elsie Little Scholarship (honoring the parents of Dr. Richard Little, professor of mathematics and computer science 1975-2013). The scholarship is designated for computer science majors with a major or minor in mathematics.
- Outstanding Computing Student Award (in honor of Kenneth Weiss, Jr. who taught at BW 1972-2010).
- Outstanding Senior Awards, which recognize a student in each of the computing majors.
- The Sullivan/Schmidt Prize for Computing (in honor of Chris Sullivan, who was an administrator/adjunct faculty member, and his grandparents).
STUDY ABROAD BOOSTS CAREER MARKETABILITY
The opportunity to experience another culture and gain an international perspective is invaluable to your professional development and will add to your career options. Benefits include:
- Understanding computing issues from an international perspective
- Expanding cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills
- Preparing for an increasingly diverse and international workplace
- Broadening academic horizons
- Improving language skills (although most classes are taught in English)
- Experiencing a different culture
- Building an international network of contacts
ALUMNI SUCCESS
At Baldwin Wallace, you’ll experience personal and professional growth in a supportive community that challenges and inspires you to succeed.
Baldwin Wallace has long championed the success of its students. Evidence of this can be seen in the extraordinary achievements of its alumni spread throughout the United States and the world. Among recent accolades, 92 percent of graduates from the Class of 2014 reported being in rewarding jobs or in graduate school studies within six months after graduation.
Recent BW computer science graduates are finding success in a variety of careers.
Nathaniel Maier ‘09 is systems security administrator at Third Federal Savings & Loan in Cleveland. He worked in BW's IT department for three years as a student and organized mock interviews between computer science students and local employers. From Upper Aringston, Ohio, he also holds an MBA from BW.
Cliff "Abe" Bender ’05 is developer at Hyland Software in Westlake, Ohio. Cliff was hired immediately after graduation and says his study abroad and double major in German has given him an international edge that has led to multiple career advancements. He was born in Kyoto, Japan, and grew up in Granger, Ohio.
Steve McAlonis '04 is senior java programmer at the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. As a student at BW, Steve was guided to a career in software development when a faculty mentor suggested Steve take a web programming class. He is originally from Fairview Park, Ohio.
FACULTY
Assistant Professor
DBA, Cleveland State University
Coordinator, Software Engineering
Director, UX Research Lab
D.Ed., Bowling Green State University
Associate Professor
D.Eng., Cleveland State University
Associate Professor
M.S., University of North Dakota
Chair and Associate Professor, Computer Science Department
Ph.D, University of Kent, UK
Assistant Professor
Ph.D., University of Albany, SUNY
Full-Time Faculty
Andrew Watkins
Chair and Associate Professor, Computer Science Department
Ph.D., University of Kent, UK
Kenneth Atchinson
Associate Professor
M.S., Kent State University
Navneet Grant
Assistant Professor
DBA, Cleveland State University
Rachelle Kristof Hippler
Associate Professor
D.Ed., Bowling Green State University
Brian Krupp
Associate Professor
D.Eng., Cleveland State University
Randy Molmen
Associate Professor
M.S., University of North Dakota
Yueming Yang
Assistant Professor
Ph.D., University of Albany, SUNY
Adjunct Faculty
Lynda Carter
Lecturer
MBA, Baldwin Wallace University
Nik Molley
Lecturer
MBA, Baldwin Wallace University
Frank E. Shoemaker
Lecturer
M.C.I.S., Cleveland State University
Susan M. Skowronski
Lecturer
M.S., University of Akron
Michele Snell
Lecturer
MBA, Baldwin Wallace University