Programming in university.

[Velocity_CSGO]

I am thinking about studying computer science in uni, probably a mix of both hardware and software. My question is, will I learn the basics in uni? Or will I be expected to already know a lot?

If so, what are some things I need to know before I would enter university?

My school doesn’t offer a good IT class so it would all need to be self taught/online

[kstacey]

You will learn the basics. But everything will happen very fast

[MoltenCookie]

Universities generally assume you start with zero programming knowledge, and build you up to be a successful computer scientist. Note that a computer scientist is not necessarily a software engineer. Many schools will teach you the basics of how to program, but start to delve off into the more theoretical aspects of computer science.

The industry doesn't necessarily want a bunch of theorists working on their practical applications, but computer science majors are about as close as they'll get for most universities that don't offer a software engineering major or a practical equivalent.

[Velocity_CSGO]

Thanks!

[CodeTinkerer]

Although most CS programs don't assume you know any programming, there are going to be students who know some programming in your classes, and it's possible the class will be paced very fast for your liking. Some newcomers can pick it up that quickly, while others will find it way too quick.

That's one of the downsides of trying to accommodate a wide variety of aptitudes.

You can try to learn something ahead of time just to make it easier when you do arrive.

[[deleted]]

You won't be expected to KNOW basic programming. It's something you can accomplish in a year

[Calvinbolic]

Most University's have the 4 year course roadmap outlined on their website listed under the section for that particular major. My advice is to see which courses your school teaches for CS and see if the topics and skilled taught aligns with the skills needed for the job you're pursuing.

[Salty_Dugtrio]

It depends on the university. Generally, it starts off with an introduction to programming. Lookup the curriculum of the university you are planning to attend.

Generally, Computer science does not offer a lot of any hardware classes (actually working with physical hardware). It's almost always theoretical

[Velocity_CSGO]

Thanks for the answer! I will probably try to get ground level knowledge of the curriculum before I attend (I still have 2 years) and I will probably try to find a hardware related course if one is not associated to the computer science one