Are you a high school student with a passion for technology and a drive to get ahead? Georgia Tech offers an exceptional opportunity to begin your computer science journey early through our online dual enrollment program. This program allows ambitious high school students to earn college credit from a top-ranked university, all from the comfort of their homes. Discover how Georgia Tech’s online computer science courses can give you a head start in your academic career.
Georgia Tech’s Flexible Online Computer Science Course Structure
Georgia Tech understands the busy schedules of high school students. That’s why our online computer science courses are designed for maximum flexibility and accessibility:
- Course Credits & Semesters: Each course provides 3 college credit hours and is available during the summer, fall, and spring semesters, fitting into your academic year.
- 100% Online & Asynchronous Learning: Learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere. Our asynchronous format means you can access lectures and materials according to your schedule.
- Essential Technical Requirements: To ensure a smooth learning experience, you’ll need a computer with a webcam for proctored exams and a reliable internet connection in a quiet study environment.
- Digital Proctoring for Assessments: Exams are securely proctored online. For CS 1301, exams are available within a four-day window, while CS 1331 exams have specific dates and times outlined in the course syllabus.
CS 1301: Introduction to Computing – Your Foundation in Python
CS 1301: Introduction to Computing is the perfect starting point for students new to computer science. This course lays the groundwork in fundamental computing principles, teaching you how to write, understand, and debug computer code using Python, a widely-used and versatile programming language.
What you’ll learn in CS 1301:
- The Computer Science Design Cycle: Master the iterative process of writing code, executing it, analyzing results, and refining code based on outcomes.
- Programming Fundamentals: Gain a strong understanding of the basic building blocks of programming, including variables, mathematical and logical operators, and Boolean arithmetic.
- Dynamic Program Development: Learn to utilize control structures like conditionals, loops, functions, and error handling, along with essential Python libraries, to create dynamic and interactive programs.
- Core Data Structures: Explore and apply fundamental data structures such as strings, lists, dictionaries, and file manipulation techniques for effective program creation.
- Sneak Peek into Advanced Topics: Get introduced to the exciting world of object-oriented programming and fundamental computer algorithms, setting the stage for further study.
Advanced Placement (AP) Credit: Students who achieve a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Computer Science A exam will receive Georgia Tech credit for CS 1301.
CS 1331: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java – Dive into OOP
Building upon introductory concepts, CS 1331: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java delves into the methodologies of object-oriented programming (OOP). You’ll learn core OOP principles like encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism, with a strong emphasis on software development practices and enhancing your individual programming expertise in Java, another industry-standard language.
Course Highlights of CS 1331:
- Java Programming Fundamentals: Acquire a solid foundation in the syntax, semantics, and core features of the Java programming language.
- Object-Oriented Programming and Algorithms: Master the principles of OOP and learn to design and implement algorithms using object-oriented approaches.
- Advanced Programming Concepts: Explore and apply advanced concepts including exception handling, data structures, recursion, and the development of graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
Prerequisite: Successful completion of CS 1301 is required before enrolling in CS 1331.
Choosing Your Starting Point: CS 1301 or CS 1331?
Selecting the right course to begin your Georgia Tech online computer science journey depends primarily on your prior programming experience, especially with Python, the language used in CS 1301. While many students applying to Georgia Tech have experience with Java, CS 1301 is designed to be accessible to beginners.
- For Students New to College Computer Science: If this is your first time earning college credit in computer science, CS 1301 is the recommended starting point.
- Building on CS 1301 Success: Students who have already earned credit for Georgia Tech’s CS 1301 are well-prepared to advance to CS 1331.
- AP Computer Science A Exam Credit: If you have a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Computer Science A exam, you have the option to start with either CS 1301 or CS 1331. However, because AP Computer Science A uses Java and CS 1301 uses Python, starting with CS 1331 is recommended only if you are also proficient in Python.
Competitive Admission and Course Prerequisites
Admission to Georgia Tech’s online dual enrollment computer science program is competitive. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission due to the high volume of applications.
Important Note: Demand for CS 1331 is very high, particularly for the spring semester. In recent years, all spring CS 1331 slots have been filled by students admitted in the fall semester. Admission to CS 1331 in the spring admission round is highly unlikely.
Prerequisites for Distance CS 1301:
- Academic Background:
- Precalculus coursework completion.
- Experience with computer programming (through classes or personal projects is acceptable).
- Current enrollment in 11th or 12th grade.
- Completion of two college-level courses (AP, DE, IB), with at least one in math or science preferred.
- Minimum 3.5 unweighted GPA.
- Minimum 3.5 unweighted math GPA.
Prerequisites for Distance CS 1331:
- Academic & Coursework Background:
- Precalculus coursework completion.
- Successful completion of CS 1301 or AP Computer Science A exam score of 4 or 5, along with demonstrated proficiency in Python.
- Current enrollment in 11th or 12th grade.
- Completion of two college-level courses (AP, DE, IB), with at least one in math or science preferred.
- Minimum 3.5 unweighted GPA.
- Minimum 3.5 unweighted math GPA.
Ready to take the first step towards an extraordinary future in computer science? Explore the Application Requirements for Dual Enrollment and begin your journey with Georgia Tech online!
