The Minor in Computer Science
If a student's goal is a basic foundation in computer science for application to another field but they are not planning a career as a practicing computer scientist, the minor in computer science is a good choice. The minor consists of five CSE courses: two core courses and three electives. The core courses provide an introduction to computer science concepts and problem-solving techniques. The electives offer flexibility to integrate computer science studies with a major area. Students select the courses that are most important to them, whether their interests are in fine arts, linguistics, psychology, philosophy, law, business, medicine, the natural sciences or anything else.
Units required: 15
Required courses (6 units):
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| CSE 131 | Introduction to Computer Science | 3 |
| CSE 247 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3 |
| Total Units | 6 | |
Elective courses (9 units):
Any three additional CSE courses selected from CSE 132 Introduction to Computer Engineering, CSE 240 Logic and Discrete Mathematics, CSE 347 Analysis of Algorithms, or any CSE course with a T, S, M or A suffix.
The Minor in Computer Science requires two core courses (CSE 131 and CSE 247) and three elective courses. Approved transfer courses and proficiency credit are allowed to replace CSE 131. Students who have approved transfer credit or proficiency credit for CSE 247 will not be required to take this course at Washington University; however, some other Washington University course must be designated in consultation with the CSE advisor to replace CSE 247. At least two of the three elective courses must be completed at Washington University within the CSE department. Any elective course taken outside of the Washington University CSE department must be approved by the student's CSE advisor and the associate chair.
Additional Information
All courses used for the computer science minor must be taken for a grade, and the student must earn a C- or better. Should the student decide to go further in the field, all courses in the computer science minor can be used toward a second major in computer science or a degree in computer science or computer engineering.