COMPUTER SCIENCE

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
HANDBOOK

Computer Science Department

College of Engineering and Computer Science
California State University, Sacramento

Rev. 5/2021 Website: www.ecs.csus.edu/csc Page 1

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Department Of Computer Science Mission Statement 3

B.S. Of Computer Science Program Educational Objectives 3
Computer Science Student Learning Outcomes 4
Computer Science Faculty Teaching Interests/Scholarship 5
Career Possibilities 7
Degree Requirements and Catalog Rights 8
Advising For Math & Science Requirements 9
Major Status: Pre-CSC vs CSC 13
Curriculum Roadmap and Prerequisites 14
Computer Science Electives by Topic 15
Prerequisite Sequences For Computer Science Electives 16
Computer Science Prerequisite Flow Chart 17
Computer Science Elective Schedule 18
Substitution-Waiver / Math Equivalency Forms 19
Advising and Faculty Office Hours 20
Advising Forms 21
General Education Worksheet 22
Registering For Classes 23
Tips and Reminders 24
Registering for Supervised Courses 25
Dropping Classes 26
Repeating Courses 28
Deleting, Adding, or Appealing a Grade 29
Graduation 30
Appendix I: Policy on Academic Integrity 31
Appendix Ii: Important Computer Science Accounts 32

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 DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE MISSION
STATEMENT
The mission of the Department of Computer Science is to:

• Be a department of choice for high-quality and innovative undergraduate and graduate

degree programs in computer science, software engineering, and computer engineering.

• Educate a diverse student population.

• Foster research and professional development activities that enable faculty to maintain
currency in their fields, and engage students in research.

• Provide technological leadership to the University community and the Sacramento region.

• Provide experiences that reflect state-of-the-art/state-of-the-practice by incorporating new

areas and technologies into its academic programs.

• Strive to serve regional educational needs for professional development and

interdisciplinary programs.

• Participate in the development of new technologies that drive local, regional, and national
economies through interaction with industry.

B.S. OF COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL

OBJECTIVES
Three to five years after graduation, a graduate of the B.S. in computer science should have:

1. Made contributions to the development, maintenance, and support of real world

computing systems.

2. Taken initiative and assumed responsibilities as an effective member of project teams.

3. Worked independently and functioned effectively in an environment with incomplete

information.

4. Progressed in the computing field, engaged in professional development, and/or

pursued an advanced degree.

5. Produced quality technical and non-technical documents and presentations for a

variety of audiences.

6. Adhered to the ethical standards of the profession and understood the implications of
his/her professional activities.

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 COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
At graduation, a B.S. in computer science graduate should be able to:

1. Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant
disciplines to identify solutions.

2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing
requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.

3-a. Communicate effectively in speech in a variety of professional contexts.

3-b. Communicate effectively in writing in a variety of professional contexts.

4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based
on legal and ethical principles.

5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the

program’s discipline.

6. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-
based solutions.

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 COMPUTER SCIENCE FACULTY
TEACHING INTERESTS & AREAS OF SCHOLARSHIP
Faculty Teaching Interests Areas of Scholarship
Arad, Behnam Hardware Design and Validation Design of Power-efficient Hardware;
using EDA tools; Computer Validation of Complex Embedded
architecture; Parallel computing. Systems; Hardware Security.
Baynes, Anna Information Visualization, Information Visualization, Visual Analytics
Algorithms, Software
Engineering, Information
Analytics.
Chen, Haiquan (No)SQL Databases, Data Machine Learning; Security on Location-
(Victor) Analytics and Mining; Dynamic based Social Networks; Cyber-Physical
Webs, Data Science Education. Systems.
Cheng, Yuan Algorithms; Security; Cloud Security; Privacy; Social Computing; Cloud
Computing. Computing.
Dai, Jun Network Security; Computer Network and Distributed System Security;
Networking; Computer Big Data in Enterprise Cyber Security
Forensics. Space; Cloud Security; Mobile Security.
Faroughi, Nikrouz Digital Logic; Computer Single and Multiprocessor Systems
Architecture. Architecture; Computer Security through
Hardware.
Ghansah, Isaac Computer Security and Privacy; Security Issues in Critical Infrastructures
Computer Networks; Computer such as Smart Grid; Computer Forensic
Architecture. Investigation.
Gordon, V. Scott Artificial Intelligence; Graphics; Artificial Intelligence; Neural and
Video Game Architecture. Evolutionary Computation; Computer
Science K12 Education.
Jin, Ying Database Design, Database Database Systems and Applications;
System Implementation, Data Event and Rule Processing in Centralized
structures; Algorithm Analysis. and Distributed Environments; Data
Security and Privacy.
Krovetz, Ted Computer programming; High-speed Provable Symmetric
Discrete Cryptography; Authenticated Encryption;
mathematics; Design and Universal Hashing; Specification and
Analysis of Algorithms; Implementation of Cryptographic
Compilers; Cryptography. Algorithms.
Muyan-Ozcelik, Pinar Computer Games and Graphics; Running Real-time Tasks on Embedded
Mobile Computing; GPU Systems using GPU Computing;
Computing. Multitasking among such tasks.
Ouyang, Jinsong Distributed Systems; Data Distributed Systems Including Cloud
Structures and Algorithm Computing, Mobile and Ubiquitous
Analysis; Operating Systems. Computing, and Computer Networks.
Phoulady, Parham Algorithms; Theory of Machine Learning; Medical Image
Computation; Discrete Analysis; Biomedical Image Segmentation.
Structures; Machine Learning.
Salem, Ahmed Software Engineering; Software Requirements Specification and Design
Testing and Quality Assurance; Modeling; Verification and Validation

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 System Requirements Methodology and Techniques; Information
Engineering. Assurance.
Shobaki, Ghassan Compilers; Algorithms and Compiler Optimizations; Combinatorial
Theory of Computation; Optimization Algorithms; Computer
Operating Systems. Architecture and System Performance.
Sun, Xiaoyan Computer Networks; Network Enterprise-level Network/Distributed
Security; System Security. System Security; Cloud Security; Cyber
Situational Awareness; Vehicular Ad hoc
Network (VANET); Intelligent
Transportation System (ITS).
Wang, Xuyu Computer Network; Machine Computer Network; Deep Learning; Indoor
Learning; Mobile Computing; Localization; Internet of Things; Mobile
Algorithms. Health; Wireless Systems.
Yang, Jingwei Software Engineering; Software Engineering; Requirements
Requirements Engineering; Engineering; Knowledge Engineering;
Java Programming; Data Data Analytics; Human-Computer
Structures; Data Science. Interaction.
Zhang, Cui Programming Language Formal Methods for Secure Software
Theories and Paradigms; Engineering; Secure Coding for Software
Formal Methods for Secure Security; Software Architecture;
Software Engineering; Software Programming Language Theories and
Architecture. Paradigms.

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 CAREER POSSIBILITIES

 Computer Scientist  Computer Engineer

 Software Engineer  Computing Science Educator

 Information Technology Specialist  Computer Systems Analyst

 Scientific Application Programmer  Computer Operations Manager

 Computer Services Coordinator  Database Administrator

 Computer Game Developer  Data Communications Manager

 Data Processing Manager  Data Processing Application Programmer

 Network Administrator  Programmer Analyst

 Software Requirements Engineer  Software Architect

 Software Quality Assurance Specialist  Software Development Project Manager

 Systems Manager  Systems Programmer

 Computer Graphics Specialist  Knowledge Engineer

 Systems Engineer  Cyber Security Specialist

 Information Assurance Specialist  Information Security Officer

 Data Mining Analyst  Web/eCommerce Developer

 IT Business Analyst  IT Infrastructure Specialist

 Technical Control Specialist  Technical Representative

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 DEGREE REQUIREMENTS AND CATALOG RIGHTS

The computer science program has major changes that are in effect beginning Fall 2021. The degree
requirements are located on the University Catalog website.

Continuing students or transfer students that have catalog rights from prior years (see below) have the option
to follow the degree requirements in effect at that time. See the Archived Catalog

Catalog rights prior to Fall 2021, the program offered Math and science requirements that were flexible,
allowing many choices. The courses you choose should reflect your goals, preparation and interests. See page
9 for more detailed information.

If students are unsure catalog rights to pick, please consider the following information that was created by the
department to help guide your decision:

Speaking of catalog rights…

Since University requirements change periodically, it is important that you know which set of GE
and major requirements apply to you, and what catalog options are available to you:
♦ First Year. Students who enter Sacramento State as a first year use the catalog requirements
in effect when they begin at Sacramento State. For example, if you graduated from high school
last Spring and began at Sacramento State in the Fall Semester 2020, your catalog rights begin
in Fall 2020 and you are required to fulfill the GE and major requirements outlined in the
University catalog in effect in Fall 2020. As long as you maintain continuous enrollment (defined
below), you will not be responsible for any requirements added after that time. Students also
have the option of choosing to meet the catalog requirements in effect when they graduate from
Sacramento State.
♦ Transfer Students. Students who transfer to Sacramento State may use (1) the catalog
requirements in effect when they enter Sacramento State, (2) the catalog requirements in effect
when they graduate from Sacramento State, or (3) the requirements which were in effect when
their continuous enrollment (defined below) began. For example, if you began at Sierra College
in Fall 2018 and have been continuously enrolled since then, you have catalog rights to Fall
2018.
♦ Continuous Enrollment - begins when you have graduated from high school and enroll in
either a California State University (such as Sacramento State) or a California Community
College (such as American River College). You maintain continuous enrollment as long as you
register one semester in each calendar year.
♦ For more information, please see: https://catalog.csus.edu/baccalaureate-degree-requirements/

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 ADVISING FOR MATH & SCIENCE REQUIREMENTS
(only valid for Catalog 2020-21 and prior)

1. General Advice

Math and science requirements are flexible, allowing many choices. The courses you choose should reflect
your goals, preparation and interests.

Calculus. Your first choice is whether to take MATH 26A/26B or MATH 30/31. The MATH 26 sequence is
more conceptual and focuses on applications in social and life science. MATH 26A/26B is less rigorous than
MATH 30/31, requiring only Algebra II from high school (or MATH 11) as a prerequisite. MATH 30/31 is
designed for math, science and engineering majors; and prepares students for more advanced study in
mathematics. Which should you take? You should probably take MATH 30/31 if you have done well in
mathematics courses through pre-calculus, you are considering graduate study or changing majors to
engineering, or you would like to take some more advanced math courses. MATH 30/31 leaves open to you
more options.

Statistics. If you take MATH 26A/26B, then you must take STAT 50. If you take MATH 30/31 then you have a
choice between STAT 50 and ENGR 115. STAT 50 is a four unit course that covers a wider variety of topics at
a deeper level. ENGR 115 is a two unit short course with most students and examples coming from the realm
of engineering. STAT 50 should be taken unless the two unit difference allows you to take an extra math or
science course that otherwise would not fit in your academic plan.

Physics. If you take MATH 26A/26B, then you must take PHYS 5A. If you take MATH 30/31then you have a
choice between PHYS 5A and PHYS 11A. PHYS 11A uses calculus to explain many natural phenomena and
PHYS 5A does not. If you take MATH 30/31, PHYS 11A is recommended. It’s a perfect opportunity to see why
Isaac Newton needed to invent calculus. When you choose your electives, PHYS 5B and PHYS 11C are good
choices because they deal with electricity, which helps understand computer hardware at the physical level.

Electives. Beyond the courses discussed above, you must complete enough additional math and science
electives to bring your math and science total to at least 24 units. Depending on the calculus and statistics
course you choose, this means an additional 8-10 units. At least one elective course must be another math or
statistics course, or PHIL 160, but the remainder may be either more math or more science. Because linear
algebra is a pervasive tool in many branches of science and engineering, including computer science, MATH
100 is highly recommended as one of your elective choices.

Math minor, statistics minor or physics certificate. You can get a math or statistics minor (which is a great
complement to computer science and looks good on your resume) if you complete MATH 30, MATH 31, STAT
50 and three upper division math or statistics courses. These six courses along with PHYS 5A or PHYS 11A
will satisfy the computer science math and science requirements and earn you a minor at the same time. This
path requires 25 units of math and science, which is only one more than what is already required. Some upper-
division applied math courses especially good for computer science are MATH 100, 150, and STAT 155.
Students wanting a strong background in probability and statistics can get a math minor by taking MATH 100,
STAT 115A, 115B, or a statistics minor by taking STAT 103, 115A, 115B. You can receive a “scientific
computing and simulation” certificate from the physics department if you choose PHYS 5B or 11C, and PHYS
162 and 163 as electives, but this requires a minimum of 27 units (ie, one extra class).

Questions? See your advisor.

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2. Sample Math and Science Pathways

The following are common ways to satisfy the math and science requirements. You may choose one that
meets your goals, preparation and interests, or design your own pathway. As always, see your advisor if you
have any questions.

First Year and Transfer Students (24-26 units)

Requirements: MATH 30, MATH 31, STAT 50 or ENGR 115, PHYS 11A
Electives: MATH 100, PHYS 11C, and any math or science elective of interest

Notes: Good for first-year students who have done well in a pre-calculus course or are considering graduate
school or changing majors to computer engineering. Also good for transfer students who have already taken
MATH 30, 31, and PHYS 11A, 11C (eg, AS-T degree holders).

MATH 26A/26B (24 units)

Requirements: MATH 26A, MATH 26B, STAT 50, PHYS 5A

Electives: MATH 100, PHYS 5B, and any math or science elective of interest

Notes: For students not interested in MATH 30/31. Elective options are limited because many courses have
MATH 30 or 31 as prerequisite.

Math Minor (25 units)

Requirements: MATH 30, MATH 31, STAT 50, PHYS 11A

Electives: Any three upper-division MATH or STAT courses with calculus as a prerequisite.

Notes: Highly recommended courses are MATH 100, 150 and STAT 155. Other good courses are MATH 101,
170, STAT 115A, 115B.

Statistics Minor (25 units)

Requirements: MATH 30, MATH 31, STAT 50, PHYS 11A

Electives: STAT 103, STAT 115A, STAT 115B.

Scientific Computing and Simulation Certificate (27-29 units)

Option 1: MATH 30, 31, 100, STAT 50 or ENGR 115, PHYS 11A, 11C, 162, 163
Option 2: MATH 26A, 26B, 100, STAT 50, PHYS 5A, 5B, 162, 163

Notes: In both options, a math elective is also required. MATH 100 is recommended.

Math courses for computer science students

All of the following courses are appropriate for computer science majors and count as a math elective.
(Prerequisites in parentheses). More applied courses: MATH 100 Applied Linear Algebra (MATH 26B or 31),
MATH 150 Numerical Analysis (MATH 31), STAT 103 Intermediate Statistics (STAT 50), STAT 155
Introduction to Techniques of Operations Research (MATH 31, STAT 50). More theoretical: MATH 101
Combinatorics (MATH 31), MATH 170 Linear Programming (MATH 31, 100), PHIL 160 Deductive Logic II
(CSC 28), STAT 115A Introduction to Probability Theory (STAT 50).

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3. Math 26A/26B Track vs Math 30/31 Track

MATH 26A/26B Track (24 units)

Required (14)
(3) MATH 26A Calculus I for Social and Life Sciences (MATH 11)
(3) MATH 26B Calculus II for Social and Life Sciences (MATH 26A or appropriate high school based AP
credit)
(4) STAT 50 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (MATH 26A or MATH 30)
(4) PHYS 5A General Physics: Mechanics, Heat, Sound (MATH 9)

Electives (10)
Note: To satisfy the requirement of CAC, the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, which accredits
computer science programs, one or more electives must be from MATH, STAT, or PHIL (MATH 100 Linear
Algebra is recommended).

(3) MATH 100 Linear Algebra (MATH 26B or MATH 31)

(3) CSC 148 Modeling and Experimental Design (MATH 26B or MATH 31, STAT 50 or ENG 115,
and proficiency in a programming language)
(5) CHEM 1A General Chemistry I (High school chemistry, college algebra, or minimum grade of “C”
in CHEM 4)
(3) PHIL 160 Deductive Logic II (CSC 28 or PHIL 60)
(4) PHYS 5B General Physics: Light, Electricity, and Magnetism, Modern Physics (PHYS 5A)
(3) PHYS 162 Scientific Computing: Basic Methods (MATH 26A or MATH 30 and PHYS 5A, or
MATH 30 and PHYS 11A, or MATH 105A concurrently)
(3) PHYS 163 Scientific Computing: Modeling, Simulation, and Visualization (PHYS 162)

MATH 30/31 Track (24 units)

Required (14-16)
(4) MATH 30 Calculus I (MATH 29)
(4) MATH 31 Calculus II (MATH 30)

(2-4)
(4) STAT 50 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (MATH 26A or MATH 30)
or
(2) ENGR 115 Statistics for Engineers (MATH 31, may be taken concurrently)
(4) PHYS 5A General Physics: Mechanics, Heat, Sound (MATH 9)
or
PHYS 11A General Physics: Mechanics (MATH 30, 31)

Electives (8-10)
Note: To satisfy the requirement of CAC, the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, which accredits
computer science programs, one or more electives must be from MATH, STAT, or PHIL (MATH 100 Linear
Algebra is recommended).

(3-4) Any MATH or STAT course with calculus as a prerequisite may be taken, e.g., MATH 32, 45, 100,
101, 102.
(3) CSC 148 Modeling and Experimental Design (MATH 26B or MATH 31, STAT 50 or ENGR
115, and proficiency in a programming language)
(5) CHEM 1A General Chemistry I (High school chemistry, college algebra, or “C” in CHEM 4)
(4) CHEM 1E General Chemistry for Engineering (MATH 30 and minimum grade of “C” in CHEM
4)
(3) PHIL 160 Deductive Logic II (CSC 28 or PHIL 60)
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(4) PHYS 5B General Physics: Light, Electricity, and Magnetism, Modern Physics (PHYS 5A)
(4) PHYS 11B General Physics: Heat, Light, and Sound (MATH 31, PHYS 11A)
(4) PHYS 11C General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism, Modern Physics (MATH 31, PHYS
11A)
(3) PHYS 106 Introduction to Modern Physics Computing (MATH 31; PHYS 11A, PHYS 11B,
PHYS 11C or PHYS 5A, 5B)
(3) PHYS 162 Scientific Computing: Basic Methods (MATH 26A or MATH 30 and PHYS 5A, or
MATH 30 and PHYS 11A, or MATH 105A concurrently)
(3) PHYS 163 Scientific Computing: Modeling, Simulation, and Visualization (PHYS 162)

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 MAJOR Status: Pre-CSC vs CSC…
ALL undergraduate students, even transfer students, enter Sac State as a Pre-major (aka "Pre-
computer science").

Students remain “Pre-CSC” while completing all of the lower division requirements (ie CSC 15,
20, 28, 35, 60; Math 26A/26B track OR Math 30/31 track). Once you have completed all the
required courses with a C- grade or better, you need to complete the Change of Major form to
switch from “Pre-CSC” to full “CSC” major. After you submit the form to the department for
approval, it will be forwarded to Admissions and Records on your behalf.

Please know that a lot of the upper division courses (CSC 133 and above) have a prerequisite
that requires full major (ie CSC) status. Be aware that failure to complete the lower division
requirements in a timely manner may cause problems during the registration process.

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 CURRICULUM ROADMAP AND PREREQUISITES

The department offers curriculum pattern roadmaps to assist students in planning out their
semesters to help ensure a timely graduation. When viewing roadmaps and course planning,
please take into consideration the following:
♦ Are you working to support yourself? The amount of hours studying might be
more limited if working 20+ hours/week.
♦ How many units is realistic for you to be able to do well?
♦ Everyone moves at their own pace, comparing yourself to “how well” classmates
seem to do is not fair to yourself.
♦ Students should also look at their Academic Requirements page (located in your
Student Center) to verify the courses completed are counted correctly towards
degree requirements.

All roadmaps are located on the csc website, Forms page.

YES, you must take prerequisites!

♦ The computerized “MY SAC STATE” registration system enforces individual prerequisites (as
well as full major status in the case of upper division CSC courses).
♦ You may view a full list of prerequisites on the website, Forms page.
♦ Pay special attention to prerequisite sequences because they require planning two to four
semesters in advance.

Please note that prerequisites override catalog rights.

♦ When changes are made to pre-requisites there is usually a grace period for current students.
After that period even if your catalog rights exempt you from a course, you must take it if it is a
prerequisite to a course you wish to take.

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 Computer Science Electives by Topic
You are required to take three Computer Science upper-division elective courses. We offer a
variety of topics to supplement the knowledge you will gain in the core requirements; many of
them also reflect the special interests of the faculty. Electives are numbered from 140 to 189.
In addition, experimental courses are offered under the number 196X (where X is a letter); these
can also be used to satisfy this requirement. Currently, electives are offered in the following
areas (prerequisites are listed in parenthesis):

♦ Advanced Algorithms
CSc 140 Advanced Algorithm Design and Analysis (CSc 130)
♦ Artificial Intelligence
CSc 180 Intelligent Systems (CSc 130, CSc 135, Math 31, Stat 50)
♦ Compilers
CSc 151 Compiler Construction (CSc 135)
♦ Computer Architecture
CSc 142 Advanced Computer Organization (CSc 137)
♦ Computer Games
CSc 165 Computer Games Architecture and Implementation (CSc 130, CSc 133,
Math 30, Physics 11A)
♦ Database and Data Mining
CSc 174 Database Management Systems (CSc 131, CSc 134)
CSc 176 Advanced Database Management Systems (CSc 174)
CSc 177 Data Warehousing and Data Mining (CSc 134, Stat 50)
♦ Data Communication and Networking
See 196 courses
♦ Graphics
CSc 155 Advanced Computer Graphics (CSc 133)
♦ Information Security
CSc 152 Cryptography (CSc 60, CSc 130, Stat 50)
CSc 153 Computer Forensics Principles and Practice (CSc 138)
CSc 154 Computer Systems Attack and Countermeasures (CSc 138)

♦ Operating Systems
CSc 159 Operating System Pragmatics (CSc 139)
♦ Simulation
CSc 148 Modeling and Experimental Design (Math 31, Stat 50)
♦ Software Engineering
CSc 170 Software Requirements and Specification (CSc 131)
CSc 171 Software Engineering Project Management (CSc 131)
CSc 179 Software Testing and Quality Assurance (CSc 131)

Since most of these courses are not offered every semester (a two-year schedule for electives
is included in this manual), it is recommended that students plan their programs carefully to
ensure that they have the proper prerequisites at the time their chosen electives are offered.
Prerequisite sequences are noted on the next page.
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 Prerequisite Sequences for Computer Science Electives
Note: Math and other non-computer science prerequisites are not listed here.

♦ Advanced Algorithms
130 → 140* (requires at least 2 semesters)

♦ Artificial Intelligence
35 and 130 → 135 → 180* (requires at least 3 semesters)

♦ Compilers and Operating Systems

35 and 130 → 135 → 151* (requires at least 3 semesters)
35 and 130 → 60 and 137 → 139 → 159 (requires 4 semesters)

♦ Computer Architecture
35 and 130 → 137 → 142 (requires 3 semesters)

♦ Database and Data Mining

130 and 131 → 134 → 174 (requires at least 3 semesters)
130 and 131 → 134 → 174 →176* (requires at least 4 semesters)
130 → 134 → 177* (requires at least 3 semesters)

♦ Graphics and Computer Games

130 and 131 → 133 → 155* (requires at least 3 semesters)
130 → 133 → 165* (requires at least 3 semesters)

♦ Information Security
60 and 130 → 152* (requires at least 2 semesters)
60 and 130 → 138 → 153* (requires at least 3 semesters)
60 and 130 → 138 → 154* (requires at least 3 semesters)

♦ Simulation
No upper division → 148*

♦ Software Engineering
130 and 131 → 170 (requires at least 2 semesters)
130 and 131 → 171* (requires at least 2 semesters)
130 and 131 → 179* (requires at least 2 semesters)

*May not be offered every semester.

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 Computer Science Prerequisite Flow Chart

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 Computer Science Elective Schedule
most current version on CSC website

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 Substitution-Waiver / Math Equivalency Forms
The substitution / waiver forms below are to be used for the following reasons:

- Form A: Use this form when non-articulated Math courses taken at another University need to be verified with the Math
department. You will return the form to the CSC office and it will be placed in your student file.

- Form B: Use this form when non-articulated CSC courses taken at another University need to be verified with a CSC
advisor. You will return the form to the CSC office and it will be placed in your student file.

- Form C: This form is to be used when making any changes to courses submitted on your graduation application.
Example: you planned to take CSC 179 during Spring 2016 but decided to take CSC 152 instead. Additionally, after
submitting Form A and/or Form B to the CSC office, the dept will complete Form C and forward to Admissions and
Records to ensure the information is correctly reflected to your academic requirements.

Form A Form B Form C

New for the Spring 2019 semester: The CSC Department can now initiate substitutions or waivers online. In order to have
this done, you will need to contact the Department and tell them the course(s) you are trying to substitute

Form C

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 ADVISING AND FACULTY OFFICE HOURS
It is mandatory that you see a Computer Science faculty advisor at least once a
year. Holds are placed on all CSC students; failure to do advising will result in
being unable to register for courses.

Plan to visit your major advisor well BEFORE you attempt registration for the next semester, and get
advising while classes are in session during Fall or Spring semesters. Faculty members are not
available for advising during Finals Week, Winter Intersession, Spring Break or Summer Session.

(For GE advising, please go to the Academic Advising Center in Lassen Hall.)

 Step 1: Complete the "BS Advising Form" and "BS Course Planning form". The “BS Course Planning form”
is a tentative plan for at least the next four semesters. Please fill out these forms prior to meeting with your
assigned advisor.

- CONTINUING students should pick up their previous advising form in RVR 3018.

- NEW students (ie – this is your first year @ Sac State) should go to
https://www.csus.edu/college/engineering-computer-science/computer-science/forms.html and print the
"BS Advising Form" and "BS Course Planning Form."

 Step 2: Go see the faculty advisor assigned to you during their office hours.
http://www.ecs.csus.edu/csc/ → Faculty Information → “Office Hours” link

Who is my advisor???
Example: if your last name is “SMITH” choose your advisor from Muyan-Ozcelik, Salem, Wang or Zhang
(Q-Z block). If these advisors are not available, you can see someone else. The important thing to
remember is to try and see the same professor (whomever you choose).

 Step 3: After your advisor signs the “BS Advising form”, return it to RVR 3018.

ATTENTION:
To remove any confusion, let’s clarify the advising policy for the Computer Science Department-
According to the University Policy Manual, major advising is mandatory ONCE per academic year (so during
Fall or Spring semester). Every semester **think Fall 2020**, the department places an advising hold on all
CSC majors. Then dept staff goes through and removes the hold for everyone who did major advising the
previous **Spring 2020** semester (because those students technically won’t require advising until the
following year **Spring 2021**). The department then sends out a mass generic email to all CSC majors
reminding them to do advising. The department encourages advising every semester, but if you know what you
plan to take next semester, you are fine.

Please check your My SacState first. If you know that you completed major advising last semester, you should
not have a hold on your record.

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 ADVISING FORMS

This form must be returned to the

dept office after every
advising session.
Without this form,
your major registration
hold will not be removed.

Keep the tentative plan

for yourself.

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 GENERAL EDUCATION WORKSHEET

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 REGISTERING FOR CLASSES

Registering for Lecture/Lab Courses

Use “MY SAC STATE” to register (https://my.csus.edu). Check your schedule again just before
you attend class – there are often last-minute changes to class schedules and the department
may not be able to send an email beforehand.

Registration limits (can change each semester):

♦ Continued Probation: 14 units
♦ On academic contract: Maximum number of units allowed by your counselor
♦ Graduating Seniors: 21 units
♦ All others, during Priority Registration: in recent semesters, a “unit cap” has been
placed on all students. Check your My Sac State to find out the unit limit.
♦ All others, during Late Registration: in recent semesters, a “unit cap” has been
placed on all students. Check your My Sac State to find out the unit limit.
♦ To register for 21 or more units, obtain an “Excess Units Petition” from the Registrar’s
website (available for a limited time during late registration period)

If You Cannot Register Yourself Using “MY SAC STATE”…

The department enforces prerequisites. If you took a prerequisite at another institution, the
course may not appear on your Sac State record yet and/or the registration system may not
recognize that you have had the prerequisite. (There may also be a delay if you had to establish
equivalency with a substitution/waiver form.) The department can register you if you submit a
Registration Request Permit. If your request is approved, and there is still space in the course,
the department will enroll you. If the course is full, you will be placed on the waitlist. (If the course
is full AND the wait-list is full, you will likely have to try to add in person with the instructor on the
first day of class. Once the semester begins, ALL add requests require instructor signature on the
add permit.)

There could be another reason you are unable to register yourself – “My Sac State” won't let you
add an upper division course (CSc 133-191) if you are still a "pre-major.” In that case, the
department can register you for upper division CSC courses if all requirements (except Change of
Major form) are completed or if it is determined that you are likely to complete the requirements to
become a full major by the end of the current semester. In addition to submitting the documents
listed above, submit a Change of Major form. And please do your best to submit everything at
the same time.

If you cannot enroll in a Math / Phys / History / Engl course, then you will need to contact the
Math / Phys / History / Engl department, respectively. The CSC department can only enroll you in
CSC courses.

Adding after Instruction Begins

♦ If the class is full, but the instructor has decided to let you in, have him/her sign the
department’s registration permit, during the first 4 weeks of classes only. (Note: You may
need to show the instructor evidence that you have passed the prerequisites.)
♦ Deliver the signed form to the department before the census date (the end of the fourth week
of instruction). We will do our best to process it quickly, but it is your responsibility to check
your schedule and make sure that you have been added to the class by the census date.
♦ Note: trying to add/drop AFTER the Census date requires the “Add/Drop petition” located on
the University Registrar’s website, signatures of Instructor, Dept Chair AND College Dean,
and written note from student explaining the late request.

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 REGISTERING FOR CLASSES

Tips and Reminders

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 REGISTERING FOR SUPERVISED COURSES
Paperwork can be found at https://www.csus.edu/college/engineering-computer-science/
computer-science/forms.html

CSc 195, Fieldwork in Computer Science

This is for someone who already has a job in the field that qualifies for academic credit.
♦ Read the guidelines “Fieldwork (Internship) Guidelines”.
♦ There are two forms required for registering in CSC 195. The first is the required campus-
wide form, called “Student Learning Agreement.” The second is the CSC Department
registration form, titled “Student Internship Registration Form.” Both forms require supervisor
signature.
♦ If you think you qualify, fill out the forms, get your work supervisor’s signature, and turn it in
to the department before the census date (the end of the fourth week of instruction). The
department will enroll you.
♦ Note that you must turn in a written report and an evaluation by your workplace supervisor
at the end of the semester in order to receive credit. See “Student Internship Report
Guidelines” and “Supervisor Evaluation of Student Internship Form”
♦ Credit will only be given in the semester you are working. Example: if you are working during
Summer break, you must register for CSC 195; you cannot work during the Summer and get
credit during Fall semester.

CSc 195A-D, Professional Practice (Co-op)

If you do not already have a job that qualifies for fieldwork, and you want to be placed in a “Co-
op” internship, please apply with the Career Counselor & Experiential Learning Coordinator in
the Academic Advising and Career Center, Lassen Hall 1013. If you are accepted, the Co-op
Counselor will contact the department staff directly to request you be enrolled.

CSc 198, Co-curricular Activities in Computer Science

Students will serve in leadership roles in computer science activities, provide tutoring or
technical assistance in labs, assist instructors in grading coursework, or assist in other activities
related to the subject matter and concerns of the department. Graded: Credit / No Credit.
Contact the department chair for more information.

CSc 199, Special Problems (Independent Study)

Individual projects or directed reading in specified topics in computer science. Note: Open only
to students who appear competent to carry on individual work; approval of faculty supervisor
and advisor required. May be repeated for credit. Graded: Credit / No Credit.

♦ Fill out a “Supervisory Course Petition” and have your faculty sponsor sign it. Deliver it to
the department before the census date (the end of the fourth week of instruction). The
department will enroll you.

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 DROPPING CLASSES

Dropping Before the Census Date (the end of the 4th week of class)

♦ Drop classes using “MY SAC STATE” (https://my.csus.edu) during the dates specified you
student center.
♦ After online registration has closed, you can drop a CSC course by emailing
cscreg@csus.edu and include the required information of your name, student ID number,
and the 5-digit course call number of the class you are requesting to drop. Please be
sure to copy your instructor in this email – in case other students are still trying to add this
course.
♦ We will do our best to process it quickly, but it is your responsibility to check your schedule
and make sure that you have been dropped from the class by the census date.

Late Withdrawal After the Census Date (the end of the 4th week of class)
♦ Complete the online form found in My Sac State (under OnBase forms) or under Records and
Registration Forms.
Be sure to READ the guidelines (below) for withdrawing at this point. You must attach a note or
it will likely be denied.

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 ♦ Submit the form online AND any necessary documentation attached that will aid your request. It will
route to Instructor. I suggest you also email instructor after you submit the form to make them aware of
need for approval. After, it will route for dept chair approval.

♦ After the 6th week of school (beginning October 9th), IF dept chair approves, then the form will be
forwarded to the Dean’s Office for the Associate Dean (Dr. Behnam Arad) review.
IF the Associate Dean approves, then the form will be forwarded to Registrar’s office for processing.

PLEASE take care of this ASAP. The more time passes, the harder it will be to get approval.

Withdrawing From All Courses

♦ If you must withdraw from all classes, do not use drop forms.
♦ Use the official “Semester Withdrawal Form” which can be accessed via My SacState,
specifically the OnBase Portal.

Refunds

♦ Refer to the Sacramento State Bursar’s Office (https://www.csus.edu/apply/enrollment-

costs-fees/refunds/) for information.

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 REPEATING COURSES
INCOMPLETE GRADES AND REPEAT POLICY CHANGES EFFECTIVE FALL 2010.

♦ Students may not repeat courses where an “I” grade has been previously assigned
unless the “I” grade has lapsed or a grade of “C-” or lower has been assigned
♦ Students may not repeat courses where a grade of “C” or higher was previously
received unless the course may be taken more than once for credit
♦ Students will be prevented from enrolling in a course where the grade previously
earned is a “C” or better (or Credit).
♦ Students may repeat a maximum of 16 units for grade forgiveness
♦ Courses taken prior to Fall 2010 will not count towards the 16 units of grade
forgiveness
♦ Students may repeat an individual course for grade forgiveness no more than two
times without review and written approval by your academic advisor and/or
department chair.
♦ Students may repeat an additional 12 units for grade average beyond the 16 units
of forgiveness

The new Repeat Policy is applicable to all undergraduate students and applies only to
courses taken at Sacramento State. Please note that students will be blocked at
registration from attempting to enroll in courses where a grade of “I” or “C” or higher has
been received.

The Repeat Exception Petition (http://www.csus.edu/registrar/forms/) is to be used by

students asking for an exception to the new repeat policy which prohibits students from
repeating “C” or better grades or repeating a class more than two times.

♦ Be mindful of university repeat policy: https://www.csus.edu/student-life/class-

schedules/registration/repeating-courses.html
♦ Students may repeat an individual course for grade forgiveness no more than two times
without review and written approval by your academic advisor and/or department chair.
♦ Students may repeat no more than a total of 28 units

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 DELETING, ADDING, OR APPEALING A GRADE

DELETING A GRADE
♦ If this is the first semester you have received a “WU” (Unauthorized Withdrawal),
you may be able to delete the grade. The “WU” may be assigned in the case
where the student has not completed sufficient course assignments or
participated in sufficient course activity to make it possible, in the opinion of the
instructor, to report satisfactory or unsatisfactory completion of the class by use of
a letter grade (A - F).
♦ Fill out a “Petition to Discount First WU Grade(s)” form found in My Sac State
(under OnBase forms) or under Records and Registration Forms.
♦ The University may also grant a deletion of a failing grade if you have
documentation of a serious medical condition which interfered with your
completion of the course. Fill out an “Academic Standards Committee - Deletion
of Grade Petition”, available from Student Service Counter (Lassen Hall, first floor
Lobby).

ADDING A GRADE
If you attended class but neglected to register for it, and you paid sufficient fees to
cover the class, you may be able to have it added to your record.
♦ Fill out an “Academic Standards Committee - Special Consideration Petition,”
available from Registrar’s Office website.
♦ Obtain the signatures of the instructor of record and the department chair.
♦ Follow instructions on the form to submit appropriately.

APPEALING A GRADE
♦ The official University student grade appeal process is described on the web at:
http://www.csus.edu/umanual/Acad%20Affairs/Grade_Appeal_Policy.htm
♦ Read and follow instructions carefully, or you may lose the right to an appeal.
Grade appeals must be started within three weeks of the semester following the
one in which you received the grade!
♦ Be prepared to submit the originals of all of your graded work with your appeal
paperwork.

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 GRADUATION

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR GRADUATION APPLICATION

Bachelor’s graduation applications are due approximately one year before your projected
graduation date (October 1st for Spring or Summer graduation, Feb 1st for Fall
graduation).

The Computer Science department is part of a group of majors that complete the
graduation application online. Please visit the following link for the most up-to-
date information: https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/student-
services-center/forms.html
Other useful graduation links:
General Commencement information: https://www.csus.edu/president/commencement/

HOW TO UPDATE YOUR APPLICATION AFTER FILING

After you have filed your application, submit an official Sacramento State “Major/Minor
Course Substitution and Waiver” Form (http://www.csus.edu/registrar/forms/#eval) if any
of the following occurs:
♦ You need to change your electives
♦ You want to substitute a course from another institution
AND/OR
♦ If you need to change your graduation date, you must complete the “Bachelor’s
Degree Date Change Form”

Note: After the form has been approved by the Chair or Associate Chair, you must
return it to Admissions and Records yourself.

ATTENDING THE COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

♦ Your name will be in the printed program if you file your graduation petition by the
publicized deadline.
♦ General Commencement information: https://www.csus.edu/president/commencement
♦ If you wish to have your name read aloud during the ceremony, sign up in the Dean’s
Office (RVR 2014) at least one week before.
♦ Note: You may walk in the Commencement Ceremony even if you have not fulfilled
all your requirements to graduate yet.
♦ New as of Spring 2019: Commencement ceremonies will now only be held at the end
of the Spring semester. If you are graduating in a semester other than Spring, you
may still walk in the ceremony. To do so, you will need to submit a Participation
Request via the Commencement website, available here:
https://www.csus.edu/president/commencement

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 APPENDIX I: Policy on Academic Integrity
Computer Science students are required to adhere to University guidelines for academic integrity. These
guidelines are outlined in the CSUS University Policy Manual on Academic Honesty, available at
https://www.csus.edu/umanual/student/stu-100.htm.

Definitions of Academic Dishonesty

Cheating. At Sacramento State, cheating is the act of obtaining or attempting to obtain credit for academic
work through the use of any dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent means. Cheating at Sacramento State includes
but is not limited to:

 Copying, in part or in whole, from another’s test or other evaluation instrument.

 Using crib notes, "cheat sheets," or any other device, including electronic devices not permitted by the
instructor as an aid in writing an examination.

 Submitting work previously graded in another course unless doing so has been approved by the course
instructor or by department policy.

 Submitting work simultaneously presented in more than one course, unless doing so has been
approved by the respective course instructors or by the department policies of the respective
departments.

 Altering or interfering with grading or grading instructions.

 Sitting for an examination by a surrogate, or as a surrogate.

 Any other act committed by a student in the course of his or her academic work that defrauds or
misrepresents, including aiding or abetting in any of the actions defined above.

Plagiarism. Plagiarism, as a form of cheating, is the use of distinctive ideas or works belonging to another
person without providing adequate acknowledgement of that person’s contribution. Regardless of the means of
appropriation, incorporation of another’s work into one’s own requires adequate identification and
acknowledgement. Plagiarism is doubly unethical because it deprives the author of rightful credit and gives
credit to someone who has not earned it. Acknowledgement is not necessary when the material used is
common knowledge. Plagiarism at Sacramento State includes but is not limited to:

 The act of incorporating into one’s own work the ideas, words, sentences, paragraphs, or parts thereof,
or the specific substance of another’s work without giving appropriate credit thereby representing the
product as entirely one's own. Examples include not only word-for-word copying, but also the "mosaic"
(i.e., interspersing a few of one’s own words while, in essence, copying another’s work), the paraphrase
(i.e., rewriting another’s work while still using the other’s fundamental idea or theory); fabrication (i.e.,
inventing or counterfeiting sources), ghost-writing (i.e., submitting another’s work as one’s own) and
failure to include quotation marks on material that is otherwise acknowledged; and

 Representing as one’s own another’s artistic or scholarly works such as musical compositions,
computer programs, photographs, paintings, drawing, sculptures, or similar works.

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APPENDIX II: IMPORTANT COMPUTER SCIENCE ACCOUNTS

 Every CSUS student should set up a SacLink account with the University.
This account will provide you with, among other things, free E-mail and
Internet access to “MY SAC STATE” (https://my.csus.edu). This can be done
via the Internet at: https://www.saclink.csus.edu/ .

 Are you signed up for the “CSCUNDERGRADLIST”? We will only use it to warn
you of advising holds and announce special events and job opportunities.

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