This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
The Certificate in Fundamentals of Computing will prepare non-computer science students for employment that requires a solid understanding of computing, including data analysis, data visualization and data security. The certificate program is offered online. This baccalaureate certificate runs concurrently with a student's major and is not a stand-alone program.
Student learning outcomes
Upon completing this program, students will know and know how to do the following:
- Analyze a problem and create a software solution for the problem
- Discuss networks and cybersecurity and best practices
- Apply knowledge of data-focused systems to create and use data and able to discuss the analysis of data
- Apply knowledge of the software engineering process to build and test a website
Admission requirements
All applicants to the certificate are required to meet the admission requirements of VCU and submit a change of major form. The admission requirements outlined below will apply to all students.
- Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Curriculum requirements
The curriculum will prepare students to integrate digital technology knowledge with other disciplines. Students will have cross-disciplinary skills and experience across two dimensions as well as deep knowledge in their primary field of study with strong ability in digital technology areas such as data analysis, visualization, and cybersecurity. The curriculum focuses on computational problem-solving with an emphasis on interpreting and communicating the increasingly important information collected in the digital world along with the essential cybersecurity knowledge to appropriately secure data.
Degree requirements
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CMSC 210 | Computers and Programming | 3-4 |
| or CMSC 254 | Introduction to Problem-solving | |
| CMSC 320 | Software Engineering and Web Development | 3 |
| CMSC 330 | Data Science Skills | 3 |
| CMSC 340 | Cybersecurity Skills | 3 |
| Total Hours | 12-13 | |
The minimum total of credit hours required for this certificate is 12.