Computer Science Foundations

The goal of this program is for you to learn the intellectual concepts and skills that are essential for advanced work in computer science and beneficial for computing work in support of other disciplines. You will achieve a deeper understanding of increasingly complex computing systems by acquiring knowledge and skills in mathematical abstraction, problem solving, and the organization and analysis of hardware and software systems. The program covers material such as algorithms, data structures, computer organization and architecture, logic, discrete mathematics, and programming in the context of the liberal arts.

Program content will be organized around four interwoven themes.

• Computer Organization: hardware and software, including assembly language
• Programming: understanding and applying object-oriented programming to solve simple to moderately complex problems
• Discrete Mathematics: mathematical reasoning, theoretical abstractions, and problem-solving skills focused on computer science
• Power, Privilege and Technology: current topics (including ethics) related to the place and impacts of science and technology in society.

We will explore these themes throughout the program by way of lectures, programming labs, workshops, and seminars.

This full-time daytime program will have some components taught on the Olympia campus and some components taught remotely. Students who are interested in participating fully remotely should contact the faculty to discuss that option.

This program is coordinated with Greener Foundations for first-year students in fall quarter. Greener Foundations is Evergreen’s in-person introductory student success course, which provides first-year students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive at Evergreen. Students expected to take Greener Foundations in fall should use CRN 10030 to register for a 2-credit Greener Foundations course in addition to this program for 14-credits. When using this CRN students will take additional steps to complete their registration, more information can be found at the Greener Foundations Registration Help Wiki.

First-year students who are not expected to take Greener Foundations or have been granted an exemption should use CRN 10029 to register for this program for 16-credits. Find more details about who isn't expected to take Greener Foundations on the Greener Foundations website. 

Fall Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

6 - Object-Oriented Programming in Python

4 - Discrete Mathematics 1

4 - Digital Logic 

2 - Seminar: Power, Privilege and Technology (for students not taking GF)

Winter Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

6 - Object-Oriented Programming in C++

4 - Discrete Mathematics 2

4 - System Operations

2 - Seminar: Technology and Ethics