Southern Polytechnic State University
Department of Computer Science
Professional Certificate in Programming
The primary goal of the Professional Certificate in Programming is to prepare students with post secondary education or several years of work experience, to enter the Computer Programming field as a career change. The focus is on sharpening programming skills. This is an on-campus lockstep program, which includes two classes in each semester. In the fall and spring semesters, courses are taught in a condensed format with each of the two classes scheduled for 7 Saturdays. Summer semester classes may be scheduled in the evening. The first semester included CS-1 in the first half of the term and CS-11 in the second half. Class meeting times will be adjusted to accommodate for the rapid pace. Second semester includes courses on software engineering and databases. The third semester includes User-Centered Design and a capstone project. Following are the course descriptions.
· CS 1301 Computer Science I (4 credits)
Prerequisite: Math 1113 or equivalent
This course provides an introduction to computer science with a focus on structured programming. Topics include an overview of computers and programming, problem-solving and algorithm development, sample data types, arithmetic and logical operators, selection and repetition structures, text files, one-and two-dimensional arrays, procedural abstraction and software design, and modular programming including subprograms. Programming assignments focus on the techniques of good programming style and how to design, code, debug and document programs.
· CS 1302 Computer Science II (4 credits)
Prerequisite: CS 1301
This second course in computer science provides a focus on both abstraction and advanced programming techniques. Topics include abstract data types, multi-dimensional arrays and records, sets and strings, binary files, searching and sorting, introductory algorithm analysis, recursion, pointers and linked lists, software engineering concepts, and dynamic data structures (stacks, queues, and trees). Programming assignments emphasize good software development principles such as information hiding, re-use, use of symbolic debuggers, and separate compilation.
· SE 4624 Software Engineering (4 credits)
Prerequisite: CS 3153
The entire software engineering life cycle is explored, with emphasis on the initial phases. Topics include problem definition, systems analysis, requirements gathering, cost and benefit analysis, proposal preparation, prototyping, design techniques and usability testing. Software engineering principles, practices, and design standards are examined through case studies. Various structured analysis and design tools are used by students in conjunction with real-world projects. A major component is team a project which goes through prototyping and usability testing.
· CS 3153 Database Systems (3 credits)
Prerequisite: CS 1302
This course covers various database models including hierarchical, network, relational, and object-oriented. Also included is an overview of various file structures including sequential, indexed-sequential, and direct. Labs use a SQL based database product such as Oracle.
· CS 4324 User-Centered Design (4 credits)
Prerequisite: CS 3423 for Computer Science majors; permission of CS department head for others.
A course that presents the fundamental knowledge, processes, skills, and practices leading to the user-centered design of computer systems and applications. The course addresses the effectiveness of human interactions with computers by examining issues of physical ergonomics, cognition and perception, human memory and information processing, and usability. Software engineering techniques are covered leading to improved system effectiveness in supporting use of computers, user learning, diversity in interaction styles and individual versus group work. Class exercises provide practice of needed skills. A major design and development project that integrates all aspects of user-centered design is included.
· CS 4904 Special Topics: Programming Capstone Project (4 credits)
Prerequisites: consent of the department head.
An individual senior-level project course applying the theory tools, and techniques of Computer Science. This involves a major report and oral presentation under the direction of a CS faculty member.
Admissions
The Professional Certificate in Programming will be open only to people who have had
post-secondary education or several years of work experience. Students will be admitted in a special status. Coursework completed in the certificate program will be entered on the student’s official transcript as regular academic coursework counting for undergraduate credit. Anyone choosing to work towards an undergraduate CS degree at SPSU will be required to apply through the regular processes. Students wishing to transfer the credits to another school will be able to do so by having an official transcript sent.
In the first two courses you will learn a state-of-the art programming language such as C++. In the database course you will learn a query language such as SQL and a database management system such as Oracle. In the software engineering course you will learn the process of engineering software and be exposed to a variety of software tools.
Scheduling
You may begin the Professional Certificate in Programming only in the fall or spring semesters. Two classes are scheduled for each of three semesters. Individuals completing the program will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Some classes are scheduled in a condensed format to allow for completion of the course sequence within the three semesters. Courses are usually scheduled on Saturdays (except in the summer semester). The typical class (for the fall and spring semesters) is held from 9 a.m - 4 p.m. each Saturday for 7 weeks. Summer semester classes usually will be scheduled in the evenings.
You will receive a class schedule for the semester in which you enroll. The Computer Science Department will complete your registration when your application has been completed and accepted through the Admissions office.
Course Locations
Classes will be held on campus at SPSU. The exact room assignments will be forwarded to you with your course confirmation packet.
Course Materials
Books for each course may be purchased in the SPSU Bookstore. Costs vary with new books priced at approximately $45 and used books at approximately $34.
Registration Fees and Payments
SPSU credit tuition applies to all courses in the certificate program. Please see a current Registration Bulletin for tuition rates and payment deadline.
Applying for the Professional Certificate in Programming
To apply for admission to the Professional Certificate in Programming, please complete and return the enclosed Undergraduate Certificate Application for Admission along with the required supporting documentation and the $20.00 application fee.
Admission Process
When your completed application has been processed and accepted, you will receive notification of your admission status. At that time, the Computer Science Department will register you into the first semester course sections. You should refer to the SPSU Registration Bulleting regarding deadlines for fee payment.
Application Deadline: August 9, 2000