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ENGS 20: Introduction to Scientific Computing

Offered

12F, 13F: 10
13W, 14W: 10
13S, 14S: 11

Prerequisites

MATH 3 and prior or concurrent enrollment in MATH 8

Dist

TAS

Instructors

Shepherd (fall, winter)
P. Taylor (spring)

Textbooks

Fall 2012: see list
Winter 2013: see list
Spring 2013: see list

Course Websites

Spring 2013 (Taylor)

May not be taken under the Non-Recording Option

This course introduces concepts and techniques for creating computational solutions to problems in engineering and science. The essentials of computer programming are developed using the C and Matlab languages, with the goal of enabling the student to use the computer effectively in subsequent courses. Programming topics include problem decomposition, control structures, recursion, arrays and other data structures, file I/O, graphics, and code libraries. Applications will be drawn from numerical solution of ordinary differential equations, root finding, matrix operations, searching and sorting, simulation, and data analysis. Good programming style and computational efficiency are emphasized. Although no previous programming experience is assumed, a significant time commitment is required.

Students planning to pursue the engineering sciences major are advised to take ENGS 20. Students considering the computer science major or majors modified with computer science should take COSC 1 and COSC 10.  Enrollment is limited to 50 students.