Foundations of Computing (Graduate Certificate)
Build your computing expertise in this microcertificate. Gain skills in programming, algorithms, math and problem-solving to prepare for tech-driven careers or graduate study; a STEM background is not required.
Quick facts
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Additional facts
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This program is offered for Mandarin-speaking students in China. Instruction is offered entirely in Mandarin.
Certificate description
The foundations of computing microcertificate program offers you a rigorous curriculum that builds a strong theoretical and practical understanding of the core principles that drive modern computing.
If you do not have a background in science, technology, engineering or mathematics, the program prepares you for professional roles that require a solid understanding of computing. It also prepares you to apply to Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering's computing-focused graduate degree programs.
You develop proficiency in key areas such as logic, proof strategies, combinatorics, algorithm analysis, discrete structures (including sets, relations and trees), and the fundamentals of finite automata. You learn about foundations of engineering mathematics, multivariable calculus, differential equations and optimization, probability and statistics as well as programming paradigms.
In addition to theoretical foundations, the microcertificate program emphasizes hands-on experience in computer programming. You engage with multiple programming paradigms and programming language design, and you gain the skills necessary to design and implement robust, object-oriented and service-oriented software systems.
Curriculum
This graduate degree includes courses focused on a specialized topic, so you can advance your skills for further professional opportunities. Explore all courses below.
9 credit hours
Required Core (9 credit hours)
FSE 598 Topic: Emerging Computing Technologies (3)
FSE 598 Topic: Foundations of Engineering Mathematics (3)
FSE 598 Topic: Programming Languages and Paradigms (3)
Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants (opens in new window) | International applicants (opens in new window) | English proficiency (opens in new window)
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program. Applicants are required to submit: Additional Admission Information The professional resume should include all degrees earned and professional work experience.
Eligibility is strictly limited to Mandarin-speaking applicants from China. Applicants who hold a Benke Graduation Certificate or Zhuanke without a bachelor's degree equivalent are eligible to apply.
Application deadlines
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | Online | Rolling* | |
| Session B | Online | Rolling* |
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | Online | Rolling* | |
| Session B | Online | Rolling* |
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | Online | Rolling* |
*A rolling deadline means that applications will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis until the semester begins. International students should be mindful of visa deadlines to ensure there is time to produce necessary visa documents. Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit application materials as soon as possible for consideration.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimateCareer opportunities
Graduates of the foundations of computing microcertificate program have strengthened technical and analytical skills that are valuable in computing and related fields. This credential can open doors to roles that require computing fluency or prepare students for graduate study.
Potential career opportunities include:
- business or systems analyst
- project coordinator for tech or engineering projects
- software support specialist or application specialist
- STEM educator or trainer (with computing emphasis)
- technical analyst or data analyst
This credential also boosts employability in non-STEM fields where digital literacy, problem-solving and programming skills are increasingly expected (e.g., finance, health care, consulting, government and education).
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
Dean, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
|
HLMK 372
student-fseonline@asu.edu
480-965-1740
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.
