How to Minor in Computer Science

If you have always wanted to learn how to program computer programs, consider minoring in computer science. The courses you take in the minor are applicable towards other major and general distribution requirements. However, you must earn a grade of C or better in all of them. There are several options to minor in computer science, including online courses.

Prerequisites

To earn a minor in computer science, students must complete 18 credits. Students are required to take two core courses in the field, as well as four electives. Students may consult their minor advisor for suggested courses based on their interests or future career goals. Up to two of these courses may overlap with their major or another minor or program.

Regardless of major, a minor in computer science will prepare students for career opportunities in computer science. The curriculum emphasizes fundamental computer science techniques, tools, algorithms, and design principles. The courses also teach students to evaluate and implement computer-based systems. Students should have some prior experience in programming, preferably Java or C.

Students planning to pursue a minor in computer science must complete Computer Science I and II. Depending on the program they plan to pursue, they must take additional elective courses in the field of computer science. Students who complete the minor will have an excellent foundation in analyzing problems, designing and developing software systems, and evaluating computer programs. This knowledge will be useful to anyone with an interest in technology. A minor in computer science may be a perfect complement to a major in computer engineering.

Completion of the Minor in Computer Science usually requires 20 credit hours of coursework in the field. During the minor, students should complete two courses at the 300 or 400 level. Typically, the minor takes four semesters to complete. The final year of the program requires students to complete five courses in the field of computer science.

The College of Engineering offers a minor in computer science that is open to all undergraduate students who complete the prerequisite courses. These courses may fulfill the major requirements of students who are interested in the field. Students must earn a grade of C or better in each course to complete the minor. Students should complete an enrollment form in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science office and submit it to their home department advisor.

Courses taken as part of the minor must be taken at the same time as the major. The minor requirement must be completed by the end of the junior year. If students plan to graduate after Fall 2020, they must declare their intent to earn the minor at least one semester before graduation. They must also submit a formal application for minor recognition in their academic records. They must also consult with their major adviser and minor supervisor.

For those who already have a background in math, they may be able to waive the prerequisite CS 0441. They can also opt to take CS 0449 instead.

Cost

If you’re interested in a career in computer science, minoring in the field may be a good idea. Computer science professionals deal with massive amounts of information on a daily basis, and a computer science minor focuses on the design of these systems. Computer science students learn how to use hardware and software to solve problems.

Minoring in computer science is a great way to develop your computer skills and broaden your horizons. You’ll learn basic computer science concepts, programming, and data analysis, which can be used in a variety of careers. It also adds valuable marketable skills to your resume, making it especially valuable for students in the sciences and mathematics.

A computer science minor is a good way to round out your bachelor’s degree. It doesn’t duplicate a major, and can be used to supplement other areas of study. Almost all undergraduate degrees in Illinois offer minors in computer science. Students who don’t plan to major in computer science may earn a minor in art history, for example.

Alternatives

A computer science minor can be useful for a variety of reasons, including the need to broaden your knowledge or the desire to pursue a specific career path. Minors can boost your resume, fill degree requirements, and provide opportunities to explore your interests. However, it’s important to consider your motivation before making a decision.

The computer science minor is designed for students interested in computer systems and related applications. It provides a solid academic background for the field and prepares students for graduate study in computer-related disciplines. Students who major in Computer Engineering or Digital Arts and Sciences are not eligible for this minor. For details about minor requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog. Students should complete three (3) semesters of coursework to earn this minor.

The Computer Science minor program focuses on providing students with the fundamentals of computer science coursework, and also aims to provide students with an interdisciplinary perspective that can complement their major. The computer science minor is best for students who may not have enough time to complete a full computer science degree. However, students must declare their major first before declaring the minor program. Students with degrees in Letters and Sciences, Computer Engineering, or Immersive Media Design cannot pursue a minor in computer science.

Although the Computer Science minor can be a valuable addition to your overall academic plan, it requires a certain number of prerequisites and takes three semesters to complete. Depending on math placement and CSC electives, the program may take longer. Elective courses include human-computer interaction, mobile app development, java programming, and software engineering.

The Computer Science minor requires students to complete eight credits of core courses in computer science and one 3-credit elective course at the 300 level. Students may also include approved courses from other departments. The minor requires a minimum GPA of 2.0. While a minor in computer science requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, students may take one course from the same department as their major.

If you’re considering a career in tech, a computer science minor is a great way to prepare yourself for a variety of jobs. It helps you understand the theory behind modern computing and programming. It can provide you with a deeper understanding of how computer software works and how it has evolved over the years. It can also open doors for career possibilities and increase your chances of getting the job of your dreams.

When you’re deciding on a minor, make sure to choose courses that you’ll enjoy. Computer science courses are often very challenging, so take your time and find the right program for you. If you’re having trouble choosing which courses to take, seek advice from an advisor in the department.