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)
• Comfortable coding in the C or C++ programming language (including bit manipulation in C/C++ and C pointers)
• 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 8 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 learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Because this offering is 100 percent online, no visa is required and international students who are residing in the United States 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 operating system (Windows 7 or later) and web browser
• Administrator privileges on the computer and two available USB ports
• High-speed internet connection
• Headset and webcam (recommended)

Earning the Certificate

You earn the certificate by adhering to the program's attendance policy and successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.