Computer Science
The Certificate in Computer Science is a non-degree course of study for anyone interested in acquiring the state of the art knowledge and skills such as Java programming, object-oriented software development, networks and telecommunications, web development, and database management.
Students can begin the program with a minimal understanding of computers and finish this program with skills to master the rapid development of computer technologies. Courses are taught by the faculty of the Department of Computer Science. All courses are for credit and can be transferred into the undergraduate major in computer science or used to satisfy prerequisites for admission into the MS program in computer science. Classes are offered during the 16-week semester, with many courses offered during the evenings. Students will also have access to state-of-the-art computer labs to support their studies. tudents are admitted in the fall and spring semesters.
For more information on the Computer Science Certificate, email adult@luc.edu.
Certificate Requirements
Students complete the following six courses (eighteen credit hours) of undergraduate coursework:
COMP 150: Introduction to Computing
COMP 170: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
COMP 271: Data Structures: Algorithms and Applications
One 200 level course
Two 300 level courses
SCPS cannot guarantee full-time student status throughout the length of our certificate programs. Courses are offered in the 16 week format during the day.
Course Descriptions
COMP 150: Introduction to Computing
Credit hours: 3; Prerequisites: None. This course provides a substantial introduction to computer programming as well as an introduction to a broad range of topics in the field of computing. The programming component is designed to provide a quick start by utilizing a simple but powerful language such as Python, and it will include an introduction to basic data types and operations, input/output, and flow of control. Broader topics in computing will include an introduction to digital logic and computer organization to explain the bridge between hardware and software, an introduction to historical and societal context, discussion of the power and limitations of computing, and possibly topics such as algorithm development and analysis, artificial intelligence, databases, and networking.
COMP 170: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming
Credit hours: 3; Prerequisites: COMP 150 or COMP 163 or MATH 117, with grade of C- or better, or exemption from MATH 117 via Math Placement Test. An introduction to the computer science major, covering basic concepts using an object-oriented programming language such as Java. The course addresses the following questions: What is an algorithm? How does one write a computer program? How does one convert an algorithm into a computer program? How does one judge a program? Topics include: variables, data types, input/output, repetition, choice, arrays, subprograms, classes/objects, and recursion. This course is programming intensive. A weekly lab component is required.
COMP 271: Data Structures: Algorithms and Applications
Credit hours: 3; Prerequisites: COMP 170. This continuation of COMP 170 introduces the concepts of data abstraction and data structure, including stacks, queues, lists, sets, and trees. The issues of implementing a data structure in a language such as Java are examined using classes, arrays, and linked structures. Sorting and searching techniques are analyzed. The concepts of correctness and efficiency of algorithms are developed. Time/space comparisons of iterative algorithms with recursive algorithms are made. The course includes several major programming projects. A weekly lab component is required.
Students in the certificate program also need to complete three 3-credit; one 200 level and two 300 level computer science courses, excluding Comp 391.
International Students
International Students seeking admission to any certificate program in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies are required to demonstrate the ability to study at Loyola University Chicago with the appropriate F-I visa status classification. The Office of International Programs is available to assist you regarding the appropriate documentation to study with SCPS. Please feel free to contact them at 773.508.7706 or intlcntr@luc.edu. Please be advised:
- You will be required to provide documentation of your ability to finance your tuition, fees, and living expenses. Please contact The Office of International Programs at 773.508.7706 for details and the appropriate forms needed. SCPS does not provide scholarship assistance for students seeking certificate credentials.
- An I-20 certificate of eligibility can be issued after admission to an SCPS certificate program, documents regarding post-secondary, English language proficiency, and financial documentation have been submitted. For complete information on the documents needed to receive an I-20 and an F-1 visa as well as helpful advice, visit here.
Tuition
Please visit the SCPS Tuition & Fees page through the Office of the Bursar for tuition rates.