As much as possible, particularly algebra, trigonometry and precalculus. The Cal State system requires three years of high school mathematics (algebra, geometry, intermediate algebra). The C.S. major requires six math classes and several of these are prerequisites for C.S. classes. You will benefit from taking calculus, discrete mathematics, and linear algebra as early in your college career as possible.
In high school, you can get a good start by taking keyboarding, word processing, and perhaps programming classes. In a community college, you can take a one or two (or more) course sequence in programming. The most useful language to take is C++, although C and Java are also possible.
If you have had some Computer Science classes in high school or at another college, consult an advisor. If the classes have been at a nearby community college, the Student Center will also be able to help by telling you the course equivalents at CSUEB.
If you have never had a C.S. course but are familiar with working with computers, CS 1160 should be appropriate. If you feel unsure, you are advised to take CS 1020 first. You will learn what Computer Science is, and how to use a computer as a tool. It is easier to concentrate on learning programming in CS 1160 if you already know how to enter text into a computer file, save and delete files, print homework, etc.
For more on choosing a first C.S. class, see section "Typical Entering Freshman".
Many C.S. courses are useful no matter what field you finally decide to go into. Think of the areas that you may want to major in (science? business? liberal arts? ...). Plan a schedule that includes some courses from this area (or several of these areas), plus applicable C.S. courses. You will soon know if you really want to be a computer science major, and whatever courses you have taken will benefit you under any circumstances.
The ELM is the Entry Level Math test. It is required of ALL entering students except those exempted by a sufficiently high score on the SAT or ACT test, or who have had a transferable math course at a community college.
No! You must complete at least 12 units of G.E. courses at CSUEB. Besides, if you have only C.S. courses to complete, you may have difficulty (1) scheduling several C.S. courses at once, and (2) carrying a full load of such concentrated material. If community college is more convenient, take a combination of mathematics, C.S., and G.E. courses there, but leave some of each to take at CSUEB.
Many students begin with Precalculus (Math 1300), which covers trigonometry and analytic geometry. It is critical to have a good understanding of these subjects to be prepared for the Calculus sequence. Students who do have good high school backgrounds may begin with Math 1304 (Calculus I); students with limited high school backgrounds or who do not feel confident about their abilities in algebra may wish to begin with Math 1130 (College Algebra). The Office of Testing and Evaluation offers placement tests that can help in placing a student in the best math class; it may also help to consult with a mathematics or computer science advisor.
One elective relevant for this major is a course in Logic (Phil. 3002), which will fulfill the General Education requirement in critical thinking (Area A.3). Many courses in the School of Business and Economics are related to the degree program; the school offers a similar major (CIS, Computer Information Systems). Courses in many areas (art, music, sciences, etc.) are also useful if you intend to apply computer science to these disciplines.
Not at all!
There are many ways to take classes at CSUEB. You can
enroll to audit classes only, to aim for a second degree in some
major other than your original major, or, without being formally
admitted to the University at all, through Open University. There
is, however, a limit to the number of Open University classes that
can be applied to a B.S. degree. This is important if
you decide later to become a
regular student.
Most upper-division classes allow programming assignments in the language of the student's choice (usually C, C++, Java), which can be done on the Department's Unix machines or on PC's. There is dial-in access to University Computing facilities. There are, however, exceptions to this in classes such at Networks that use particular labs in the Science building.
Regularly admitted students register by telephone from any touchtone telephone. Procedures are simple, and are explained in the schedule of classes. REMEMBER TO REGISTER EARLY. Some sections or entire courses may be canceled due to low enrollment during the registration period. Some popular courses at popular times fill up early; you need to register early to be sure of a place in a class that you want. Also, be sure to pay you fees on time; your registration will be canceled if fees are not received.
BE SURE OF YOUR COURSES; REGISTER EARLY! PAY FEES!
The best source is often a faculty advisor in Computer Science. The Math/C.S. office (North Science 335, 885-3414) keeps a list of advisors, with telephone numbers and office hours. You can see any of them by calling and making an appointment, or going to their office during office hours. The Math/C.S. Student Center can also answer many of your questions (North Science 337, 885-4011). Questions about admissions can be directed to Admissions and Records (Warren Hall lobby, 885-3811), and the University Advisement Center (UAC, Warren Lobby, 885-4682) can handle questions about general education.