Graduate Studies in Artificial Life Programming

Artificial Life (A-Life) involves breaking old programming paradigms in the software engineering field and moving forward with paradigms that mirror life systems. A-Life programming is revising the traditional scientific approach by simulating biological phenomena in digital environments to model biology and to extend the concepts of computing power into distributed computing networks that operate using biological theory. The graduate studies in A-Life track is appropriate for students with undergraduate degrees in computer science, database, game programming, mathematics or similar majors.

Artificial Life Programming Objectives

• Design and implement computer programs and simulations which demonstrate artificial life programming methodologies.
• Research and analyze ways in which creating biological and social processes through programming can change the environment.
• Evaluate and critique the philosophical, social and ethical implications of the ability to simulate and synthesize life-like entities and behaviors.
• Research and assess the key historical moments, personalities and innovations of A-Life.
• Develop and test algorithms, strategies and methodologies to support model generation for computationally intelligent software components.

A complete list of courses recommended for the A-Life Programming emphasis in the Graduate College of Applied Technology.

Master of Science in Technology Program Description and Requirements

Courses are balanced between theory, individual research and practical application to provide a solid understanding appropriate to a career in a continually changing field. Students in this program develop abilities to critically evaluate existing knowledge and extend it into fresh and original areas of inquiry and scholarship.

Master of Science in Technology Program Requirements

Graduation Requirements

Students enrolled in this program will graduate with a Master of Science in Technology degree when they have:

• Successfully completed the required core classes.
• Successfully completed the minimum number of required credit hours.
• Achieved a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0/4.0.
• Successfully defended their Thesis.
• Completed the Application for Graduation.

Program Core Objectives

• Generate sophisticated applications of advancing technology.
• Develop the ability to lead and manage in a technology-oriented environment.
• Enhance problem-solving skills through thinking techniques, effective communication and teamwork.
• Utilize theoretical as well as applied knowledge.
• Develop emerging technology into industry-applicable tools.
• Acquire a basic understanding of research methods and the ability to use them while solving business and technical problems.