CS61x

CS61x is an undergraduate course offered by the University of California, Berkeley, within the Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) department. It is associated with the CS61x family of introductory courses and is designed to introduce students to core computer science concepts and computational thinking. The exact content and delivery can vary by instructor and year, but the course commonly emphasizes practical programming, problem solving, and exposure to foundational ideas that underpin more advanced CS coursework.

The curriculum typically covers a mix of topics related to programming, algorithms, data structures, software design, and basic computer systems concepts. Depending on the offering, emphasis may be placed on language concepts, functional or imperative programming, problem decomposition, testing and debugging, and project-oriented development. The course aims to balance theoretical ideas with hands-on practice, helping students build transferable skills for further study in the field.

Course structure generally combines lectures with laboratory sessions or discussion sections, supplemented by programming assignments, problem sets, and projects. Assessments often include quizzes, homework, labs, and a final project or examination. The exact tools and languages used can vary by year and instructor, with changes reflecting evolving pedagogy and technology.

Prerequisites and enrollment policies vary, but students are typically expected to have some programming experience and may be encouraged to complete an introductory CS course before enrolling. CS61x is commonly taken by students pursuing CS majors or minors as a bridge to more advanced topics and specialized tracks.