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Undergraduate Certificate in Foundations of Computing
Next start:
April 2026
Format:
Online
Total Courses:
6 (30 credit hours)
Tuition:
$535 per creditAdvance Your Skills in Computer Science
The Undergraduate Certificate in the Foundations of Computing is designed to develop marketable skills grounded in the principles of computing and to provide a solid foundation for further education in the computing fields – computer science, data science, cybersecurity, information systems, and information technology.
Upon successful completion of the foundations of computing certificate, you will have gained a mastery of foundational skills in the areas of human computer interaction, networks, discrete mathematics, operating systems, system analysis and design, and cyber ethics to build a career in the field of computing.
Learning Outcomes
The Undergraduate Certificate in the Foundations of Computing will prepare students to:
- Integrate a foundational knowledge of all areas of foundations of computing
- Apply fundamental principles and practices of the foundations of computing
- Apply critical and ethical thinking to solve problems in the foundations of computing
- Evaluate data to inform decisions and solve problems in the foundations of computing
- Create the ability to develop and express ideas while applying a variety of delivery models, genres, and styles
- Collaborate effectively on diverse teams to accomplish a common goal
For full course descriptions, please refer to the current catalog.
Total Required Courses (30 Credits)
Preparatory Courses (15 Credits)
*Preparatory courses may be required for students entering this certificate without sufficient related experience. Please see the program admissions criteria in the City University of Seattle catalog for specific information.
- CS 132 Computer Science I (5)
- CS 251 Statistical Computing (NS) (5)
- IS 201 Fundamentals of Computing (5)
Foundations of Computing (30 Credits)
- CS 330 Network Communications (5)
- CS 340 Operating Systems (5)
- CS 351 Discrete Mathematics in Computing (NS) (5)
- IS 302 Human Computer Interaction (5)
- IS 471 Cyber Ethics (SS) (5)
- IS 350 Systems Analysis and Design (5)
This certificate is designed to give you the skills required to practice as a professional. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to seek a variety of career opportunities, including:
- Data scientist
- Software tester
- Web developer
- Systems analyst
- Business analyst
- Product manager
- Network architect
- Software engineer
Networking Opportunities
At CityU, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your professional network by connecting with faculty working in your field, students from around the globe, and alumni employed at Seattle’s top companies. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive community that’s dedicated to helping you reach your career goals.
Tuition Cost
Learn more about tuition and fees for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
2025-26 Cost of Attendance (per quarter)
| Living with Parent | Not Living with Parent | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | See Tuition Calculator | See Tuition Calculator |
| Supplies** | $180 | $180 |
| Housing | $1,240 | $4,089 |
| Food | $1,812 | $1,812 |
| Transportation | $858 | $930 |
| Misc./Personal | $636 | $636 |
| Total | $4,726 | $7,647 |
**Supplies include books, course materials, course supplies, and equipment.
Student budget values are established using student surveys, CPI index, and actual institutional expenses.
Books, Course Materials, Supplies, & Equipment component will be prorated based on enrollment intensity.
Students in a high-cost region may appeal and request a 10% increase to their housing and food budget component.
Students living in a rural area may appeal and request a 10% increase to their transportation budget component.
Financial Aid Opportunities
This program is not eligible for federal financial aid. At CityU, we are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals no matter their economic situations. Our financial aid counselors are here to find the resources you need to pay for your education, including grants, loans, work study, and scholarships. Learn more about financial aid opportunities at CityU, or contact our Financial Aid Team at 800.426.5596, 206.239.4540, or [email protected].
Military Tuition Benefits
As a Yellow Ribbon school, CityU is proud to serve those who have served in the military. We offer military tuition discounts for active-duty servicemembers and their spouses and accept military benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Tuition Assistance. Learn more about military tuition benefits, VA benefits, and military partnership programs designed to help you reach your military and career goals.