Theoretical computer science

Microcredential
Online
delivery
Advanced
level
3
courses

The field of computer science continues to evolve and expand, with an increased reliance on computational systems in almost every industry. There is strong demand for professionals who can elevate their foundational programming skills through an understanding of the theoretical and mathematical underpinnings that shape emerging capabilities in computation.

Prepare to meet this demand by earning Oregon State University’s online Microcredential in Theoretical Computer Science, which is designed for students pursuing a computer science bachelor's degree. Enhance your studies by gaining a deeper understanding of the science-based skills and concepts that drive innovation in AI, machine learning and data science. You’ll learn how to classify and design efficient algorithms, estimate running times, understand complex computational challenges and develop a deep knowledge of programming languages and methods.

Coursework (11 credits)

This is an advanced-level microcredential that is designed for those with previous experience in a subject. These offerings provide in-depth training so you can build specialized skills that will help you excel in your field. Often, advanced microcredentials require some prerequisite college courses.

Prerequisite courses

Before you enroll in the microcredential courses listed above, you must complete certain prerequisites. 

To enroll in CS 321, CS 325 and CS 381:

Note: Some prerequisite courses may have additional prerequisites. See the schedule of classes and search for the specific course for more details.

Two people are seated at a desk in front of computer screens, collaborating on a data analysis project.

Skills you’ll gain

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

  • Grammars and automata as models of computation
  • Correctness of algorithms
  • Functional programming techniques
  • Equivalency of models of computation
  • Divide-and-conquer algorithm design
  • Dynamic programming

Additional details

Oregon State microcredentials consist of at least three courses and 8 credits that follow OSU’s quarterly term calendar. All microcredentials are delivered online and some microcredentials may be offered on campus. 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. Read other important microcredential details » 

Microcredentials allow you to gain specialized skills in focused subject areas in less time than it takes to complete a full degree or certificate program. Typically, you can complete a microcredential in nine to 12 months. All microcredential courses follow the same term schedule as on-campus courses and are not self-paced. Learn more about course delivery methods »

Once you complete all classes in this microcredential, you'll receive a digital badge from Oregon State University. You can add the digital badge to your résumé and on LinkedIn, GitHub or other social media profiles. It provides employers with proof of the skills and discipline-specific knowledge you gained from the microcredential. Oregon State's digital badges are issued by Credly, the world's largest digital credential network.

Completing a microcredential is dependent on course availability, term offerings, course sequencing and any required prerequisites. Connect with the OSU Ecampus enrollment services team to better understand when courses in this microcredential are delivered to help you create a timeline for application and enrollment. You can also explore the schedule of classes to preview course availability.

  • Apply to earn a microcredential as a current student: If you’re a current OSU student interested in pursuing a microcredential online, please submit this form. Note: You must complete at least one of the microcredential courses after having been accepted into the microcredential.

You can find detailed tuition information for microcredential offerings on the tuition rates webpage. Please note: If you are pursuing a standalone microcredential as a nondegree student, you will not qualify for federal financial aid.

If you are pursuing a microcredential as a current student in an OSU degree or certificate program, you will be charged your program's tuition rate (if differential tuition is applicable). 

Earning a microcredential is a great way to develop a skill set that current and future employers are looking for. If your employer offers a tuition benefit program, you may be able to enroll online with Oregon State and receive a tuition scholarship that makes your student experience more affordable. You can also learn about the organizations OSU collaborates with to offer direct tuition benefit programs for online learners.

Oregon State offers two computer science programs online, and you can directly apply the theoretical computer science microcredential credits you earn to either one — a bachelor’s degree or a postbaccalaureate degree, which is designed as a fast-track option for those who already have a bachelor’s.

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.