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Intro to Computer Science

In this introduction to computer programming course, you’ll learn and practice key computer science concepts by building your own versions of popular web applications. You’ll learn Python, a powerful, easy-to-learn, and widely used programming language, and you’ll explore computer science basics, as you build your own search engine and social network.

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Bootcamp level quality

Complete hands-on projects and get personalized feedback with Udacity.

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Taught by Dave Evans, who is the Udacity co-founder and CEO

Focuses on building real-world web applications, catering to learners interested in practical experience

Emphasizes foundational computer science concepts for beginners, making it accessible to learners with no prior programming background

Instructs in Python, a widely-used programming language suitable for both beginners and experienced learners

Provides hands-on experience through project-based learning, enhancing practical skills

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Reviews summary

A highly entertaining intro to programming

This course is designed for beginners with no prior computer programming knowledge. It teaches programming in Python, along with computer science basics, through the building of a search engine. Covering everything from variables and conditionals to recursion and hash tables, it emphasizes not only the how but the why of the code written.

Flexibility and convenience for learners, allowing them to progress at their own pace.

"Ability to take it at my own pace is very important to me."

"I really loved this class."

"Self paced, very well organized, with lots of exercises."

"Really great for understanding using lists in python, and overall programing in a geek way."

Designed for students with no prior programming experience, offering a supportive and encouraging learning environment.

"It is a great course so far but I am yet to start. Intro to Computer Science is a great course indeed"

"I've tried multiple introductory courses and completed only this one. Many thanks to designers of the course!"

"It is an easy course to start programming in computers with python that will provide good in-depth quality videos."

The practical application of building a search engine provides a tangible goal and ties the course material together in a meaningful way.

"One of the great things about CS101 is that the entire course is couched in a real-world problem: how to build a search engine. This Rosetta Stone helped anchor the course content, quizzes and homework; everything was aimed at achieving that objective, which I found useful."

"I really enjoyed the goal-oriented nature of the course. Instead of merely learning about the theory behind computing, we got a chance to apply what was being taught by writing code, and building upon the code written in previous units and put it all together to build something practical, a working search engine."

"The course was broken into seven Units, each consisting of about 30 short videos with embedded quizzes, followed by a homework set, and a final exam."

Professor David Evans' clear explanations and thoughtful presentations make learning entertaining and approachable.

"Prof. Evans introduces Python is a clear and thoughtful way; the end result is a function search engine. Highly recommended for anyone wishing to learn to program or requiring a quick introduction to the language."

"His explanations are clear and neat, and you definitely learn how to program on Python."

"I’m not completely new to programming having learned a basic level of SQL for a semester at the uni. I found the pace and the overall difficulty of the lecture to be very fine."

A comprehensive introduction to Python, from the basics to advanced concepts, using a real-world example to frame the learning.

"This class builds a solid foundation on how to program."

"The lectures are very memorable with interactive quizzes."

"Although building a search engine using Python is the project to complete by the end of the course, the main outcome is to learn general programming concepts."

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 Intro to Computer Science with these activities:

Read 'Automate the Boring Stuff with Python'

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of Python's capabilities and practical applications.

View Automate the Boring Stuff with Python, 3rd... on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow the book.
Read through the book, taking notes and highlighting important concepts.
Complete the exercises and projects provided in the book.
Apply the knowledge and techniques learned from the book to your own projects.

Work through Python tutorials

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Develop a solid foundation in Python syntax and programming concepts.

Browse courses on Python

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Choose a reputable Python tutorial website or platform.
Follow the tutorials in order, completing exercises and projects.
Take notes and write down any questions you have.
Research unfamiliar concepts or syntax.

Join a Python study group

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Collaborate with peers to reinforce your understanding of Python concepts and solve problems.

Browse courses on Python

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Identify or form a study group with other Python learners.
Meet regularly to discuss course material, work on projects, and provide support.
Share knowledge, ask questions, and learn from each other's experiences.
Hold each other accountable for progress and provide encouragement.

Four other activities

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Solve Python coding problems

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Hone your Python programming skills by solving coding challenges.

Browse courses on Python

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Join an online coding challenge platform or website.
Select problems appropriate to your skill level.
Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
Review solutions and explanations.

Attend a Python workshop

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Enhance your Python skills through hands-on, expert-led instruction.

Browse courses on Python

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Identify and register for a Python workshop that aligns with your needs.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
Take notes, ask questions, and engage with the instructor and other attendees.
Apply the knowledge and skills gained from the workshop to your own projects.

Contribute to an open-source Python project

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Gain practical experience and showcase your Python skills by contributing to real-world projects.

Browse courses on Python

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Identify an open-source Python project that aligns with your interests and skill level.
Familiarize yourself with the project's codebase and documentation.
Find an issue or feature to work on.
Implement your solution and submit a pull request.
Collaborate with other contributors to improve the project.

Organize and review course materials

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Improve retention and understanding by organizing and reviewing course materials.

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Gather and organize notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Review the materials regularly, focusing on key concepts.
Summarize and condense the materials for easy recall.
Create flashcards or use other study tools to aid memorization.

Career center

Learners who complete Intro to Computer Science will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites, translating ideas into functional and aesthetically pleasing digital experiences. This course provides a great foundation for this role by teaching Python, a popular language for web development, and covering important concepts like building search engines and social networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers are the minds behind the efficient and effective execution of computer programs. They write, test, and maintain the code that tells computers what to do. This course can help you build a strong foundation in Python, a widely used programming language, and help you develop a solid understanding of computer science basics. These skills are in high demand for computer programmers, so this course is a great option if you're looking to start or advance your career in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Software Engineer

Software Engineers apply engineering principles to design, develop, test, and maintain software systems. This course can help you build a solid foundation in computer science concepts and Python, giving you a strong starting point for a career in software engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Database Administrator

Database Administrators ensure the integrity, security, and performance of databases. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals and Python, which can be beneficial for this role. Additionally, the course covers database fundamentals, making it a valuable asset for aspiring Database Administrators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to extract meaningful insights and derive conclusions. This course can help you develop a strong foundation in Python, a language commonly used in data science, and provide you with a good understanding of computer science basics. These skills can give you an edge in the competitive field of data analytics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists research and develop new computing technologies and applications. This course provides a good overview of computer science fundamentals and Python, which are essential for this role. While a more advanced degree is typically required for this role, this course can help you build a strong foundation for future studies and research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems to meet the needs of businesses and organizations. This course can help you build a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals and Python, which are essential for this role. The course also covers systems analysis and design, making it a valuable asset for aspiring Systems Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course can help you develop a strong foundation in computer science concepts and Python, which are valuable assets for this role. Additionally, the course covers cryptography and network security, which are important topics for Information Security Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts work with stakeholders to understand their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs. This course can help you build a strong foundation in computer science concepts and Python, which can be beneficial for this role. Additionally, the course covers requirements gathering and analysis, which are important skills for Business Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for technical products and services, such as software, hardware, and websites. This course can help you develop strong writing skills, a solid understanding of computer science concepts, and proficiency in Python, all of which are valuable for this role. The course also covers user experience design, which is an important consideration for technical documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts test and evaluate software to ensure quality. This course may be helpful for this role by providing a foundation in computer science concepts and Python, which are useful for software testing. Additionally, the course covers software testing techniques, which are important for Quality Assurance Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Network Administrator

Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. This course may be helpful for this role by providing a foundation in computer science concepts, computer networks, and Python, which are useful for network administration. The course also covers network security, which is an important consideration for Network Administrators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Game Developer

Game Developers design and develop video games. This course may be helpful for this role by providing a foundation in computer science concepts and Python, which are useful for game development. Additionally, the course covers user experience design, which is important for creating engaging games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Developer

UX Designer

UX Designers design user experiences for products and services, such as websites, software, and mobile applications. This course may be helpful for this role by providing a foundation in computer science concepts and user experience design, which are essential for this role. The course also covers programming basics, including Python, which can be useful for UX Designers.

See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer

Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. This course may be helpful for this role by providing a foundation in computer science concepts and project management, which are useful for project managers. The course also covers communication and leadership skills, which are important for project managers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Featured in The Course Notes

This course is mentioned in our blog, The Course Notes. Read two articles that feature Intro to Computer Science:

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25 Free Online Programming Courses for Beginners - 2017

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Reading list

We've selected 30 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 Intro to Computer Science.

Think Python

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Provides a comprehensive and in-depth introduction to Python programming. It valuable resource for those who want to develop a strong foundation in Python and understand its underlying concepts.

Intro to Computer Science

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Reviews summary

A highly entertaining intro to programming

Activities

Career center

Featured in The Course Notes

Reading list

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