In colleges recognizing the Advanced Placement Computer Science exam, a qualifying scores gives the student college credit or advanced standing. In the first semester, students study programming methodology, the features of programming languages, primitive data types, the dynamic allocation of memory, linear data structures, and the comparison of searching and sorting algorithms. In the second semester, students' experience with the applications of data structures are expanded to include searching, sorting, and numerical algorithms. The topic of graphics is introduced. Problem-solving techniques are required in the selection and adaptation or development of appropriate algorithms and data structures are studied.
Students write programs using structured programming techniques to solve problems.
Topics such as computer operation and operating systems are treated depending on student need. In the second semester, student programs are written with emphasis placed on readable style and modular design. The programming concepts of multidimensional arrays, sorting, and data files are studied in depth. This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to a modern high-level computing language. Emphasis will be placed on developing effective problem-solving techniques through individual and group projects.