CSE5A – Introduction to Programming I
Units: 4
Course Objectives:
Introduces students to modern structured programming techniques using the C programming
language. Students will gain some idea of the sorts of tasks for which the computer is highly suited,
and which sorts of tasks it is not. The course also presents the basic skills for using a PC operating
system with graphical user interface. File maintenance utilities are also covered.
Course Description:
Introduction to algorithms and top-down problem solving. Introduction to the C language
including functions, arrays and standard libraries. Basic skills for using a PC graphical user
interface operating system environment. File maintenance utilities are covered.
Format:
3 hours of lecture per week, 2 hours of discussion section, plus approximately 7 hours of
programming in the computer lab per week.
Prerequisites:
A familiarity with high-school level algebra is expected, but this course assumes no
prior programming knowledge.
Other restrictions:
A student may not receive credit for CSE 5A after receiving credit for CSE 10 or
CSE 11 or CSE 8B or CSE 9B or CSE 62B or CSE 65 or an equivalent course.
Example Textbook(s):
"C for yourself" by Richard Halpern, 1997, Oxford University Press. "Teach yourself C"
by Herbert Schildt, 1997, Osborne-McGraw Hill. "Programming in ANCI C" by Kochan, (HAMS)
Laboratory work:
Programming assignments on computers at the UCSD Academic Computing Center.
Offered:
Fall, Winter, and Spring.
Resources
