Computing Systems – Online Microcredential

Study the core of computing

Behind every device and network lies a world of systems working together in intricate ways. As a student in Oregon State University’s computing systems online microcredential, you’ll discover how modern digital systems are built, programmed and connected through focused study in digital logic design, computer architecture and networking principles.

Designed for professionals looking to reskill or upskill for roles in the semiconductor and broader computing industries, this microcredential will give you the ability to design and simulate logic circuits using hardware description languages; develop and analyze low-level computer programs in assembly language; and understand how data moves through networks.

Coursework

Required courses (12 credits)

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

NOTE: You can enroll in ECE 372 beginning in fall term 2025, ECE 204 beginning in winter 2026, and ECE 370 beginning in spring term 2026.

Prerequisite courses

To enroll in the required courses, you must complete the following prerequisites with a grade of C or better:

To enroll in ECE 204:

• MTH 231 – Elements of Discrete Mathematics or MTH 251Z –  Differential Calculus 

To enroll in ECE 370:

• ECE 204 – Digital Logic Design or ECE 271 – Digital Logic Design

To enroll in ECE 372:

• CS 261 – Data Structures
• ECE 271 – Digital Logic Design or CS 271 – Computer Architecture and Computer Language

Skills

The in-demand skills you’ll develop in this microcredential will give you what you need to stand out and level up your career.

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

Start working toward a degree in computer science

Once you complete the computing systems microcredential online, you can apply the 12 credits you earn directly toward Oregon State’s online bachelor’s degree in computer science or electrical and computer engineering.

If you plan to apply these credits toward a full degree, we encourage you to first contact the program to learn about the degree requirements. Please note that acceptance into a microcredential does not guarantee acceptance into a degree program.