Accelerated Computer Science Fundamentals Specialization Course Syllabus

Overview: This accelerated specialization provides a rigorous introduction to core computer science concepts, focusing on data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming in C++. Designed for learners with prior programming experience, it combines theoretical foundations with hands-on implementation. The course spans approximately 59 hours across six modules, featuring coding exercises and a capstone project. Ideal for professionals and students aiming to strengthen their computational problem-solving skills for academic or industry roles.

Module 1: Object-Oriented Data Structures in C++

Estimated time: 21 hours

• Set up a C++ development environment
• Implement data structures as C++ classes
• Understand memory management and pointers
• Apply object-oriented principles in program design

Module 2: Ordered Data Structures

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Explore arrays, linked lists, stacks, and queues
• Implement binary trees, AVL trees, and B-trees
• Develop heap data structures and priority queues
• Analyze performance of ordered structures

Module 3: Unordered Data Structures

Estimated time: 20 hours

• Implement hash tables and handle collisions
• Learn disjoint set data structures and operations
• Explore graph representations and properties
• Apply BFS and DFS traversal algorithms

Module 4: Algorithm Analysis

Estimated time: 15 hours

• Analyze time and space complexity using Big O notation
• Evaluate algorithm efficiency and scalability
• Compare iterative and recursive approaches

Module 5: Problem-Solving with Data Structures

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Solve coding challenges using appropriate data structures
• Design efficient solutions for real-world problems
• Optimize algorithms based on constraints

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 25 hours

• Develop an image processing application using C++
• Implement tree manipulation and graph search algorithms
• Deliver a fully documented and tested codebase

Prerequisites

• Prior programming experience in C++
• Familiarity with basic control structures and functions
• Basic understanding of mathematical reasoning

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Design and implement data structures using C++ classes
• Analyze the efficiency of algorithms in terms of time and space
• Solve complex computational problems using appropriate data structures
• Implement and traverse graph and tree structures effectively
• Build scalable applications with optimized algorithmic design