Image
placeholder
Douglas J. Ryan
Profession Title
Professor
Pacific Email
Office Phone
503-352-2135
UC Box
A121
Campus Office Location
Douglas C. Strain Science Center 201 (Forest Grove)

Areas I Teach

Associated Areas of Study
Content

Course Information 

Over the years, I've taught nearly every course in our computer science curriculum. Today, my teaching focuses primarily on introductory programming, object-oriented programming, web development, and mobile application development. 

I'm also developing new courses that explore artificial intelligence from two perspectives. The first focuses on using AI to solve problems, develop ideas, create things, and pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. The second explores how large language models are built and how they work.

Teaching Philosophy 

I believe a college education should prepare students for much more than their first job. I want students to learn how to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions. Computer science provides a unique environment where students can develop these skills by tackling challenging problems, exploring creative solutions, and building software that solves real-world problems.

Education 

Master of Science in Computer Science 
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 

Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics 
University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado

Areas of Interest & Specialization 

My current interests focus on how artificial intelligence is changing education and society, particularly how we prepare students for an evolving workforce. I'm also interested in understanding how large language models work, exploring their capabilities and limitations, and discovering new ways to apply these technologies to real-world problems.

Professional Information 

I've spent much of my professional career teaching computer science at Pacific University, watching the field evolve and continually finding new things to learn and explore. Before joining Pacific, I worked in the telecommunications industry and co-authored an introductory programming textbook. During my time at Pacific, I also served as a consultant to Tektronix Corporation in Beaverton, Oregon.