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Advanced Data Structures in Java

Leo Porter, Mia Minnes, and Christine Alvarado

How does Google Maps plan the best route for getting around town given current traffic conditions? How does an internet router forward packets of network traffic to minimize delay? How does an aid group allocate resources to its affiliated local partners?

To solve such problems, we first represent the key pieces of data in a complex data structure. In this course, you’ll learn about data structures, like graphs, that are fundamental for working with structured real world data. You will develop, implement, and analyze algorithms for working with this data to solve real world problems. In addition, as the programs you develop in this course become more complex, we’ll examine what makes for good code and class hierarchy design so that you can not only write correct code, but also share it with other people and maintain it in the future.

The backbone project in this course will be a route planning application. You will apply the concepts from each Module directly to building an application that allows an autonomous agent (or a human driver!) to navigate its environment. And as usual we have our different video series to help tie the content back to its importance in the real world and to provide tiered levels of support to meet your personal needs.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Course

Welcome to the first week in the third course of our Intermediate Java Programming Specialization. Once again start with introductions, and in particular introduce the unique structure of this course. Also, if you're not sure if this course is right for you, we've got an optional pre-course quiz coming right up that can help you figure out if you're in the right place. If you decide to stay with us (and we really hope you will!) we've got a great backbone project for you: your very own mapping application, inspired by Google Maps! The core data structure throughout this course is graphs, which may very well be the most fundamental data structure in all of computer science. Ready to begin? So are we!

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops programming in Java, a core skill in software engineering

Explores the data structure of graphs, fundamental for working with structured data in the real world while developing, implementing, and analyzing algorithms

Features a backbone project to build a route planning application, providing practical, hands-on experience

Examines topics relevant to real-world problems, such as shortest path finding and NP-hard graph problems

Taught by Christine Alvarado, Mia Minnes, and Leo Porter, experienced instructors in Java programming and data structures

Requires extensive background knowledge in Java programming, making it less suitable for beginners

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Reviews summary

Graph algorithms and java data structures

According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation (positive) in advanced data structures, particularly graphs and associated algorithms (positive), implemented in Java. Students frequently highlight the central route planning project (positive) as a major strength, noting that it provides valuable hands-on experience (positive) and helps solidify theoretical concepts. While many appreciate the clear explanations of complex topics (positive), some reviewers mention that the pace can be challenging (warning), and recommend having a solid understanding of prerequisite Java and basic data structures (warning) before starting. The coverage of NP-hard problems and approximation algorithms (neutral) is also noted. Overall, the course is seen as highly relevant for computer science students and professionals (positive) looking to deepen their understanding and practical skills.

Covers NP-hard problems like TSP.

"The section on the Traveling Salesperson Problem and NP-Hard concepts was interesting."

"Exploring NP-hard problems and approximation algorithms added valuable theoretical depth."

"Found the discussion on complexity theory and TSP quite insightful, though challenging."

Strong focus on implementing structures in Java.

"The course focuses heavily on implementing data structures and algorithms correctly in Java."

"Liked that it wasn't just theory, but also about writing good Java code for these structures."

"You get plenty of practice writing production-level Java code for complex data structures."

Concepts, especially algorithms, are well explained.

"The explanations of graph algorithms like Dijkstra's and BFS/DFS were very clear and easy to follow."

"I appreciate how the instructors broke down complex algorithms into understandable steps."

"Lectures provided clear insights into the theoretical aspects before diving into implementation."

"The lectures are well-structured and make the often-difficult topic of graphs approachable."

Highly relevant for CS roles and interviews.

"The data structures and algorithms covered are fundamental for anyone pursuing a career in software engineering."

"This course significantly helped me prepare for technical interviews involving graph problems."

"The practical application of algorithms to a real-world problem like routing is highly relevant."

"Great course for solidifying knowledge needed for computer science-related jobs."

The route planning project is a key strength.

"The central route planning application project was incredibly valuable, providing hands-on experience."

"Working on the mapping project throughout the course really helped solidify my understanding of the concepts."

"I found the backbone project challenging but ultimately very rewarding; it's a great way to apply the theory."

"The project structure is well-designed and makes learning practical."

"Honestly, the hands-on coding and projects are the strongest part of the course for me."

Content is challenging and the pace can be fast.

"The course moves at a fairly rapid pace, especially when covering advanced topics like NP-hard problems."

"I found the material quite challenging, requiring significant time commitment outside of lectures."

"This course is not for the faint of heart; expect to put in a lot of effort to grasp the concepts and complete the coding."

"Some weeks felt rushed, packing in a lot of new information and complex algorithms."

A solid background in Java and CS fundamentals is needed.

"This course is definitely 'advanced'. Make sure your Java skills and basic data structure knowledge are strong beforehand."

"Students without a robust background in Java programming struggled significantly with the assignments."

"The course assumes a certain level of familiarity with Java's intricacies and complexity analysis."

"While listed as intermediate, I felt the prerequisites weren't emphasized enough; it's tough if you're rusty on Java."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Advanced Data Structures in Java with these activities:

Review Java

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Refresh your understanding of Java syntax and fundamentals to strengthen your foundation for this course.

Browse courses on Java Syntax

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Review online tutorials or documentation on Java basics.
Practice writing simple Java programs to test your understanding.

Organize Course Notes and Materials

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Enhance your learning by compiling and organizing your course notes, assignments, and quizzes to facilitate effective review and retention.

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Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials.
Regularly update the folder with notes from lectures, readings, and discussions.
Categorize and label materials for easy access and reference.

Explore Java Graph Libraries

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Familiarize yourself with popular Java graph libraries to enhance your understanding of graph operations and data structures.

Browse courses on Graph Algorithms

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Identify and choose a Java graph library that suits your project.
Follow online tutorials or documentation to learn the library's features and functionalities.
Experiment with the library by implementing simple graph algorithms.

Four other activities

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Participate in Study Groups

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Engage with peers to discuss course topics, share insights, and reinforce your understanding through collaborative learning.

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Join or form a study group with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss lecture material, assignments, and projects.
Collaborate on problem-solving and share different perspectives to enhance your learning.

Implement Graph Search Algorithms

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Strengthen your understanding of graph search algorithms by implementing them from scratch in Java.

Browse courses on Depth-first Search

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Review the theory and pseudocode of depth-first search and breadth-first search.
Translate the algorithms into Java code.
Test and debug your implementations using sample graphs.

Build a Simple Routing Application

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Apply your knowledge of graph algorithms to create a practical application that calculates the shortest path between two points on a map.

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Design the user interface and functionality of your routing application.
Implement the shortest path algorithm using Java.
Integrate the algorithm into your application.
Test and refine your application to ensure accurate and efficient routing.

Participate in Coding Challenges

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Challenge yourself and refine your problem-solving skills by participating in coding challenges that involve graph algorithms and data structures.

Browse courses on Algorithm Optimization

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Identify and register for relevant coding competitions.
Practice solving graph-related problems to prepare for the challenges.
Participate actively and strive to optimize your code and algorithms.

Career center

Learners who complete Advanced Data Structures in Java will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Operations Research Analyst

Operations research analysts use advanced analytical techniques to solve complex problems in various industries, including transportation, logistics, healthcare, and finance. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and developing these techniques. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain valuable skills for modeling and optimizing real-world systems, a key aspect of operations research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Data Scientist

Data scientists use their knowledge of data structures and algorithms to extract insights from large datasets. The course's focus on graph theory will be particularly relevant for data scientists working with network data, such as social networks or transportation systems. By learning to represent and analyze graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for uncovering patterns and relationships in complex data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Computer Scientist

Computer scientists research and develop new computing technologies and applications. The course's focus on advanced data structures, including graphs, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and contributing to the field of computer science. By learning to represent and analyze graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing new algorithms and data structures, as well as for understanding the theoretical foundations of computing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Systems Analyst

Systems analysts design and implement computer systems to meet the needs of organizations. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and designing efficient systems. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing systems that can handle large amounts of data and complex relationships.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Software Engineer

Software engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and implementing efficient software solutions. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing software that handles complex relationships and interactions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Product Manager

Product managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products and services. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and managing product development. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing successful products that meet the needs of users.

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Transportation Planner

Transportation planners design and manage transportation systems, such as roads, railways, and public transportation. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and optimizing transportation systems. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing efficient and sustainable transportation solutions.

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Logistics Manager

Logistics managers plan and coordinate the movement of goods and materials. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and optimizing logistics operations. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Logistics Manager

Network Engineer

Network engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and managing complex networks. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for ensuring network reliability, performance, and security.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Database Administrator

Database administrators manage and maintain databases, ensuring their availability, performance, and security. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and managing complex databases. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing efficient and reliable database systems.

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Data Architect

Data architects design and manage the architecture of data systems, ensuring that data is accessible, reliable, and secure. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and designing effective data architectures. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing scalable and efficient data systems.

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Information Architect

Information architects design and organize websites and other digital platforms to make them easy to use and navigate. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and designing effective information architectures. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing user-friendly and efficient digital experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Architect

Business Analyst

Business analysts help organizations improve their business processes and systems. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and analyzing business processes. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing effective business solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts use data to make investment recommendations and provide financial advice. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and analyzing financial data. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing effective financial models and making sound investment decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Market Researcher

Market researchers gather and analyze data to understand consumer behavior and market trends. The course's focus on data structures and algorithms, particularly graph theory, will provide a strong foundation for understanding and analyzing market data. By learning to represent and manipulate data in graphs, you'll gain skills that are essential for developing effective market research strategies and making informed business decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Advanced Data Structures in Java.

Introduction to Algorithms, fourth edition

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Classic textbook on algorithms and data structures. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, and it valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about algorithms.

Advanced Data Structures in Java

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Graph algorithms and java data structures

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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