Academics / Undergraduate Introductory Courses
The Department of Computer Science invites undergraduate students from across Northwestern University to explore the computer science major through taking introductory courses. The classes described below can be taken on an individual basis to explore the field of computer science. Should you become more interested, consider pursuing a minor or major in Computer Science.
COMP_SCI 111: Fundamentals of Computer Programming I
This is an introductory course on the fundamentals of computer programming recommended for students considering a CS major or minor. The course is appropriate for all students, regardless of whether they have a background in high school computer science.
This class is an opportunity for students to see what computer programming is all about, and (more importantly) to see whether students want to spend the next few years doing more of it. This course will include weekly programming projects, readings, a midterm, and final examinations. Class participation is not optional.
COMP_SCI 110: Intro to Computer Programming
This course is an introduction to computer programming using Python and assumes no prior programming knowledge. COMP_SCI 110 is not part of the CS major and is the recommended entry point for non-CS majors interested in learning the fundamental constructs of computer programming along with skills and strategies to apply them in creative and useful ways.
Students will gain some experience writing programs, working with the command line, working with different kinds of data, and participating in several important programming practices (e.g. debugging, testing, and designing programs; reading technical documentation and sample code; installing and exploring third-party modules and APIs).
Pursuing a Major or Minor
Learn more about our degree programs:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science through the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering joint with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Machine Learning and Data Science Minor joint with the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Sciences
Combined BS/MS option through which students can earn both degrees simultaneously