Program Overview

Overview of the Computing Systems Microcredential

The Computing Systems microcredential is an online program offered by Oregon State University, designed for professionals looking to reskill or upskill for roles in the semiconductor and broader computing industries. This advanced-level microcredential provides in-depth training in digital logic design, computer architecture, and networking principles.

Coursework

The microcredential consists of 12 credits and includes the following courses:

• ECE 204 Digital Logic Design (4 credits)
• ECE 370 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming (4 credits)
• ECE 372 Introduction to Computer Networks (4 credits)

Prerequisite Courses

Before enrolling in the microcredential courses, students must complete certain prerequisites:

• To enroll in ECE 204: MTH 231 Elements of Discrete Mathematics (4 credits) or MTH 251Z Differential Calculus (4 credits)
• To enroll in ECE 370: ECE 204 Digital Logic Design (4 credits)
• To enroll in ECE 372: CS 261 Data Structures (4 credits) and CS 271 Computer Architecture and Computer Language (4 credits)

Skills You'll Gain

The microcredential will equip students with in-demand skills, including:

• Boolean algebra and expressions
• Digital logic gates
• Binary arithmetic
• Digital logic circuits
• Computer networking concepts
• Computer design and assembly programming
• Hardware development

Additional Details

• The microcredential is delivered online and follows OSU's quarterly term calendar.
• All course credits used to complete a microcredential must be completed at Oregon State, and transfer credit and placement tests may not be used toward microcredential course credits.
• Upon completion of the microcredential, students will receive a digital badge from Oregon State University, which can be added to their résumé and social media profiles.

Time to Complete

The microcredential can typically be completed in 9 to 12 months, as all microcredential courses follow the same term schedule as on-campus courses and are not self-paced.

Applying the Microcredential Toward a Degree

The 12 credits earned in the Computing Systems microcredential can be applied directly toward Oregon State's online bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Electrical and Computer Engineering. However, acceptance into a microcredential does not guarantee acceptance into a degree program.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Detailed tuition information for microcredential offerings can be found on the tuition rates webpage. Students pursuing a standalone microcredential as nondegree students will not qualify for federal financial aid. Those pursuing a microcredential as part of an OSU degree or certificate program will be charged their program's tuition rate.