Computer Programming (Certificate) (For Post-Baccalaureate Students, Distance Education)
Program Overview
The Computer Programming Certificate (CPC) is specifically designed for working professionals who wish to prepare for a career change or further their current career by gaining fundamental computing skills. Offered entirely online, this program provides a flexible path for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a non-computing field to transition into the tech industry.
The CPC is a professional credential that provides instruction in the theoretical foundations of computer science and develops software engineering skills. The curriculum is directly aligned with the Computer Programming Minor and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science curriculum. All CPC courses have the same learning outcomes as the courses offered to our degree-seeking students. The coursework provides the necessary preparatory background for success in Computer Science graduate programs.
Curriculum & Skills
The certificate requires 22–23 credit hours of coursework covering mathematics, programming languages, and core computer science principles.
- Programming: Students develop robust Java programming and software engineering skills.
- Foundational Computing Theory: Students explore the theoretical foundations of computing through discrete mathematics, data structures, and algorithms.
- Systems: Students learn about computer architecture, operating systems, and security.
- Quality & Process: Students prioritize software quality, testing, and structured development processes to ensure robust, scalable solutions.
- Engineering Foundation: Students apply core engineering principles to design, implement, and maintain complex software systems.
Admission Requirements
Offered entirely online, and open to students with a bachelor’s degree in any field other than computer science or computer engineering, the Computer Programming Certificate (CPC) is ideal for working professionals.
Certificate Requirements
Completing the CPC requires 22 – 23 hours of coursework in mathematics, programming languages, and other core principles of computer science beyond the calculus requirement (Calculus I may be worth 3 or 4 credit hours, depending on the course taken - students may take MA 121, MA 131, MA 141, or transfer equivalent). The Department of Computer Science coordinates with Registration & Records in issuing certificates.
Program Contact and Advisor
Coordinator of Advising, Department of Computer Science
Ms. ToniAnn Marini
1204C Engineering Building II
919-515-7920
tamarini@ncsu.edu
Program Coordinators
Certificate Director
Dr. Sarah Heckman
Director of Undergraduate Programs, Department of Computer Science
2299 Engineering Building II (EBII)
919.515.2042
sarah_heckman@ncsu.edu
Director of Engineering Online
Dr. Linda Krute
College of Engineering – Dean’s Office
919.515.5440
linda_krute@ncsu.edu
Academic Structure
Term Effective: 1/1979; 8/2011, 1/2019, 7/2021
Plan Code: 32CPCTU
CIP Code: 14.0901
Description: Undergraduate Certificate in Computer Programming
Offered: Distance Education format only
Plan Requirements
The certificate is awarded to students completing the required courses with a certificate GPA of 2.0 or higher.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| MA 121 | Elements of Calculus 1 | 3-4 |
(or any college calculus course) | ||
| CSC 116 | Introduction to Computing - Java 2 | 3 |
| CSC 216 | Software Development Fundamentals 2 | 3 |
| CSC 217 | Software Development Fundamentals Lab 2 | 1 |
| CSC 226 | Discrete Mathematics 2 | 3 |
| CSC 230 | C and Software Tools | 3 |
| CSC 246 | Concepts and Facilities of Operating Systems for Computer Scientists | 3 |
| CSC 316 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3 |
| Total Hours | 22-23 | |
- 1
Please note that students who intend to pursue graduate study after completion of the CPC need MA 141 Calculus I, not MA 121 Elements of Calculus.
- 2
with a grade of C or better
The Department of Computer Science waives the co-requisite of MA 121 Elements of Calculus or MA 131 Calculus for Life and Management Sciences A or MA 141 Calculus I so students interested in the CPC may begin by taking CSC 116 Introduction to Computing - Java. However, a Calculus I class remains a requirement for the CPC program. E 115 Introduction to Computing Environments is waived as a prerequisite for CSC 116 Introduction to Computing - Java since this is a DE program and E 115 Introduction to Computing Environments material is not needed for student success.