CS201

Course Co-ordinator: Mr Josh van Staden

Architecture
This module introduces the logical basis of computer design and how the major components fit together, with emphasis on instruction execution. You will learn how low-level instructions that can be executed directly in hardware relate to code in a higher-level language. The main focus is on understanding the hardware layer by coding in MIPS assembly language. You will also gain an understanding of factors that affect the performance of a computer.

Advanced Programming
This module builds on the data structures and algorithms covered in Computer Science 1, introducing several new topics. Dynamic data structures are an important focus of the course and underlie the concepts of abstract data types. Important classes of algorithms (such as sorting and searching) are considered and used to introduce simple aspects of algorithm analysis.

Systems-level programming
This module introduces the syntax of a high-level language such as C, with emphasis on low-level constructs and on features that have not been encountered thus far. The course builds on knowledge about machine architecture to foster understanding of lower-level, unmanaged languages and how to use them effectively.

Prerequisites: CS I

CS202

Course Co-ordinator: Mr Josh van Staden

Operating Systems
This module covers the fundamental considerations involved in the design and use of a modern operating system.
The topics include:
• Introduction to operating systems
• Processes and threads
• Memory management
• Process scheduling.
• Input / output and files
C or C++ is used as the programming language for this course.

Theory of Computing

This module focuses on the more theoretical aspects of Computer Science. It covers computability, complexity, automata, and specifications of formal languages.

Databases

This module introduces relational and non-relational databases, exploring their structures, use cases, and advantages. Applying practical use of SQL for relational databases and NoSQL for managing unstructured or semi-structured data. Database design, indexing, transactions, and best practices are covered for integrating databases into modern software development workflows.

Prerequisites: CS201

Last Modified: Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:10:33 SAST