A newly emerging category is the computation specialist, who is trained in a discipline such as engineering, law, or psychology, but who also has significant background in computing. Computational specialists are able to develop computer tools for themselves and for others to be more successful in their field.

The two CS minors are a first step down the road to becoming a computation specialist. Selected courses in the Computer Science Department will give you the broad background to understand the technical aspects of computer use and development, enabling you to integrate interests in another field with skills to use the computer wisely and effectively.

The first minor listed below, the general minor, can be used for anyone who wants to know more about computers. It doesn't require or assume that you have taken calculus.

The second minor is more suited to the mathematically minded and interested. In addition to courses explicitly mentioned, you should take the calculus sequence (MAT 111-112 or MAT 115-116).

Computer Science Minor (general minor): Note that the electives, one of which must be a 300 or 400 level class, are chosen in consultation with an advisor.

• CSC 108/109/110 or BIF 101 (3 hrs.)
• CSC 111 (4 hrs.)
• CSC 212 (4 hrs.)
• CSC elective (4 hrs.)
• CSC elective (4 hrs.)

Computer Theory Minor: This minor requires a minimal level of mathematical sophistication resulting from a college calculus sequence.

• CSC 108/109/110 or BIF 101 (3 hrs.)
• CSC 111 (4 hrs.)
• MAT 191 (4 hrs.)
• CSC 212 (4 hrs.)
• CSC 281 (3 hrs.)

Another good aspect of getting a minor in Computer Science is that you can start it later in your college years, though probably not in your senior year. Further, a student who enters Canisius as a Computer Science major but who later discovers that he/she does not enjoy it enough to make it a full-time career, can switch to a different major but continue on to finish the minor, since the first 3 courses are the same for both the minor and the major.