Programming Prerequisite

The prerequisite knowledge for this certificate is prior academic study and/or work experience in computer programming. Specifically we require:

• introductory knowledge of object-oriented programming, equivalent to one programming course that covers introductory programming concepts and logic structures (in C++, Visual Basic, or Java (preferred)) prior to admission.

Students can satisfy the prerequisites through undergraduate or graduate coursework at RIT, equivalent undergraduate courses at another university, or through documented work experience. The prerequisite must be completed with a 'B' grade or better. If you have taken a programming course at another university or community college with a grade of 'B' or better, please have a transcript sent to RIT to verify that the prerequisite requirement has been completed.

If you have equivalent work experience, write a letter to the Graduate Program Coordinator to request the waiver of the appropriate prerequisite. Please provide sufficient detail so that the depth of experience and knowledge can be determined. Some form of verification is also required.

The programming prerequisite is not part of the 24-quarter credit hours required for this advanced certificate. Although applicants are expected to have completed the prerequisite prior to applying, acceptance into the MS program may be possible even though the applicant has not completed the prerequisite programming course at the discretion of the Graduate Program Coordinator.

Programming Courses at RIT

Students can take one (1) of the following courses at RIT to complete the programming prerequisite:

• 4002-208 Introduction to Programming (C++)
• 4002-217 Programming for Information Technology I (Java)

Students who have programmed in the past, but feel the need to update their skills may be interested in:

• 4002-414 Java for Programmers (undergraduate)
• 4002-714 Java for Programmers (graduate; periodically offered in distance format)

Students are encouraged to complete the programming course either before matriculating or if approved by the Graduate Coordinator during the first quarter in the certificate program. Solid knowledge of object-oriented programming is required for the course 4004-730 Interactive Media Implementation. So, unless you have strong programming skills, 2 courses in the same programming language are highly recommended. The courses 4004-741 Fundamentals of Web-Based Multimedia and 4004-745 Foundations of Human-Computer Interaction can be taken without knowledge of programming.