FAQ: Course Selection, Placement and Credit
What courses should I take Freshman year?
How do I choose a course to start the math sequence?
How can I place out of CS021?
How do I get summer courses approved?
What about advanced placement?
Do Computer Science students participate in study abroad programs?
What courses should I take Freshman year?
Most student should take CS 101 in the fall semester, followed by CS 102 in the Spring. BA students should take CS 245 Discrete Math in the fall of their freshman year. BS students may delay CS 245 if they are taking science with a lab and calculus fall semester freshman year. However, BS students should try to take CS 245 as early as possible. Example schedules and a course precedence diagram are available here.
How do I choose a course to start the math sequence?
Consult the placement recommendations on the Mathematics Department website here.
How can I place out of CS021?
CS 021 is typically taken by all CSOM students their first year at BC. It explores Information Systems both strategically and technically. All questions about CS 021 placement and/or credit are handled by Prof. James Gips.
How do I get summer courses approved?
Check the BC academic policies before taking an external course (i.e. a summer course at another school). If the course is to fulfill a core, major or minor requirements, prior approval from the corresponding department at Boston College. For example, approval for mathematics courses is granted by the Mathematics Department. Computer Science courses are approved by the Undergraduate Program Director. Students may take a maximum of three courses per summer. Please note that no more than 8 summer or part-time courses may be credited towards and Arts & Sciences degree. A grade of C- or better is required to receive course credit.
What about Advanced Placement? Can I get credit for AP Computer Science and other AP high scores?
AP scores are used to make placement decisions, but not for course credit. Specifically, students who score a 5 on the Computer Science A exam, or a 4 or 5 on the Computer Science AB exam, or who have significant programming experience should consult with the Department Chair or Undergraduate Program Director about starting the Computer Science course sequence with CS102
For Advanced Placement for courses in other departments, contact those departments directly (i.e. Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English etc.)
Do Computer Science students participate in Study Abroad Programs?
Studying abroad can be an enriching experience. If you choose to study abroad, you will need to plan your schedule carefully, especially if you would like to spend your entire junior year abroad. The Office of International Programs has information and advising services available to students interested in studying abroad including scheduling and deadlines.
If you plan to take Computer Science courses abroad, you need to verify that they will count for credit before your semester abroad. Consult wit the Undergraduate Program Director as early as possible in your planning.