Advice to new CS students
Students planning to major in computer science do not need any prior coding experience!
The standard introductory sequence for new students is CS 110 followed by CS 111. Most students taking the introductory CS110 course have no prior coding experience. We recommend that students begin with CS 110 and a calculus course (Math 121 or Math 118).
Those students who have passed the CS AP exam can begin with CS 111. Students with a considerable amount of prior programming experience in C++ or Java should contact the director, Trish Cornez.
Please note the following:
- Prior to taking CS 110, students must test into calculus (Math 121) or Integrated Calculus (Math 118). Redlands uses the ALEKS math placement test to evaluate students’ preparedness for specific math courses. All students accepted to Redlands can take this test and use its learning modules to prepare for calculus placement. For questions about math placement, math transfer credit, and AP test scores, email math_placement@redlands.edu or calculus_placement@redlands.edu.
- For students who take CS 110 in the spring semester, keep in mind that CS 111, the next course in the sequence, is offered only during spring semesters. However, there are equivalent CS 111 courses offered at other institutions during summer sessions that can be transferred to Redlands.
- Students can declare the B.A. CS major after completing CS 110, CS 111 and either Math 121 or MATH 118-119.
- Students can declare the B.S CS after completing CS 110, CS 111, and MATH 122 (Calculus II).
Study Away Opportunities
Students pursuing a Computer Science degree at Redlands have the opportunity to participate in study abroad (study away) programs in countries around the world. Students can explore and experience the lifestyle from another country while studying Computer Science. Learn more about Study Away at Redlands.
The Computer Science program allows Redlands CS majors to satisfy several of their computer science course requirements at another four-year institution abroad. Once you find an abroad program that interests you, check online for a list of its CS courses. Contact Director Trish Cornez to verify that these courses can be counted toward your CS degree.
The following study away programs (explore the links) are some of those available to CS students. Students typically study abroad during their junior year.
• DIS Copenhagen
• DIS Stockholm
• Queen Mary University of London
• University of Canterbury
• University of East Anglia
• University of Melbourne
• Victoria University Wellington
Summer Research Opportunities
Students interested in summer research can apply to REUs (Research Experiences for Undergraduates).
The REU program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in computer science. This research is funded by the National Science Foundation. REU projects involve students in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program.
REU programs consist of a group of undergraduate students who work in the research programs of a host institution. Each student is associated with a specific research project, where he/she works closely with the faculty and other researchers. Students in this program are granted stipends and, in many cases, assistance with housing and travel.
Students can consult the REU directory for available REU programs as early as November.
Apply directly to individual REU programs. Most REU application deadlines are end of January or February.