ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have:
- Experience actively coding with C or C++ programming language for at least the past year OR completed the course Foundations of C Programming
- Proficiency with the following operating systems fundamentals: threads and thread synchronization
- Completed the Embedded Systems Assessment
ALSO RECOMMENDED
- Basic understanding of computer architecture and number systems (binary, and hexadecimal)
- Intermediate C or C++ programming skills (pointers and bit manipulation especially)
- Read the following two chapters of Modern Operating Systems, Fourth Edition by Andrew S. Tanenbaum and Herbert Bos (Prentice Hall, 2014):
- Chapter 2: Processes and Threads
- Chapter 6: Deadlocks
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about eight to 10 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
- Access to a computer (tablets won’t work) with a recent Windows, Mac or Linux operating system and web browser
- Administrator privileges on the computer and two available USB ports
- Development kit, $220 (supplied through the University of Washington); an additional $40 will be charged for shipping the kit to addresses outside the U.S.
- High-speed internet connection
- Headset and webcam (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.