Program Overview
Program Details
Introduction to Applied Programming
The purpose of the Applied Programming (APP) course is to introduce the programming language C/C++, key programming concepts in a scientific context, and guidelines for documentation. This course enables students to develop the C/C++ code needed to process large amounts of scientific data that cannot be handled in interpreted languages such as MATLAB, Python, Maple, or R.
Course Content
The teaching will be based on examples from linear algebra. The course contents include:
- C/C++
- Problem modelling
- Control and data structures
- Encapsulation
- The standard template library (STL)
- Calls to external libraries and functions in C/C++ from examples of interfacing to e.g., Python / R / MATLAB
- The use of classes and libraries, including an overview of libraries for scientific programming
- Introduction to object-oriented programming
Education
This course is part of the following MSc programmes:
- MSc Programme in Bioinformatics
- MSc Programme in Physics
- MSc Programme in Statistics
- MSc Programme in Mathematics-Economics
- MSc Programme in Actuarial Mathematics
Learning Outcome
Upon completion of the course, students will have:
Knowledge of
- Several programming paradigms; translated versus interpreted languages
- Imperative control structures and basic data structures
- Encapsulation of data states by means of structures and objects
- Basic computer architecture and hardware limitations
- Unit-tests
Skills in
- Writing small programs in C/C++
- Using templates / STL
- Compiling and using external/3rd party libraries
- Implementing native C/C++ in a library which can be called from an interpreted language
- Finding, reading, and using documentation for C/C++ libraries
- Using tools and structured approaches to locate and correct errors
Competences in
- Translating a scientific problem into an executable program using (C/C++) to solve the problem
- Participating in software development involving a shared codebase
Teaching and Learning Methods
The course uses flipped classroom teaching with a focus on solving practical exercises. Exercises classes and lectures will be held online. The course is based on assignments, solved at home and in class. Lectures will be given when general issues arise with respect to understanding.
Literature
The first part of the course will rely on a book, and the second part will rely on online resources.
Recommended Prerequisites
The course requires Linear Algebra, including programming experience in one of the following languages: Python / R / MATLAB / Maple. Academic qualifications equivalent to a BSc degree are recommended.
Remarks
The course is intended for all non-computer science students at the Faculty of Science, including but not limited to Physics, Math, Chemistry, Biology, etc., and serves as an introduction to programming in C/C++.
Exam
- ECTS: 7.5 ECTS
- Type of assessment: Continuous assessment
- Type of assessment details: Continuous assessment based on 4-6 written, individual assignments. All assignments have to be passed in order to pass the entire course.
- Aid: All aids allowed
- Marking scale: Passed
ot passed - Censorship form: No external censorship, several internal examiners
- Re-exam: A 20 minutes oral examination without preparation, covering the entire course syllabus.
Criteria for Exam Assessment
See Learning Outcome.
Course Type
Single subject courses (day)
Workload
- Category:
- Hours:
- Lectures: 4
- Preparation: 38
- Practical exercises: 84
- Exam: 80
- English: 206
Course Information
- Language: English
- Course number: NDAK14007U
- ECTS: 7.5 ECTS
- Programme level: Full Degree Master
- Duration: 1 block
- Placement: Block 4
- Schedule group: C
- Exercises classes and lectures will be held online.
- Capacity: No limitation – unless you register in the late-registration period (BSc and MSc) or as a credit or single subject student.
- Study board: Study Board of Mathematics and Computer Science
- Contracting department: Department of Computer Science
- Contracting faculty: Faculty of Science
- Course Coordinator: Abraham George Smith
Additional Information
For more information, please refer to the course catalog or contact the relevant department.
