This two-part course builds upon the programming skills that you learned in our Introduction to Interactive Programming in Python course. We will augment those skills with both important programming practices and critical mathematical problem solving skills. These skills underlie larger scale computational problem solving and programming. The main focus of the class will be programming weekly mini-projects in Python that build upon the mathematical and programming principles that are taught in the class. To keep the class fun and engaging, many of the projects will involve working with strategy-based games.
Principles of Computing (Part 1)
Give your career the gift of Coursera Plus with $160 off, billed annually. Save today.
Principles of Computing (Part 1)
This course is part of Fundamentals of Computing Specialization
Instructors: Scott Rixner
33,896 already enrolled
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7
(582 reviews)
Intermediate level
Some related experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 18 hours
Learn at your own pace
94%
Most learners liked this course
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
5 assignments
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
This course is part of the Fundamentals of Computing Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review
There are 5 modules in this course
This week, we will introduce you to the structure and standards of the Principles of Computing courses.
What's included
10 videos9 readings1 assignment2 app items
This week, we will explain the importance of testing. We will also learn to solve problems with grids.
What's included
5 videos4 readings1 assignment1 app item
This we will learn how to use probability and randomness to solve problems.
What's included
6 videos6 readings1 assignment1 app item
This week, we will learn how to use combinatorics to solve problems.
What's included
6 videos5 readings1 assignment1 app item
This week, we will explain the importance of counting in solving complex problems.
What's included
6 videos7 readings1 assignment1 app item
Instructors
Instructor ratings
4.9 (22 ratings)Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Software Development
DeepLearning.AI
National Taiwan University
University of Colorado Boulder
Microsoft
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Learner reviews
Showing 3 of 582
4.7
582 reviews
- 5 stars
81.13%
- 4 stars
14.06%
- 3 stars
2.91%
- 2 stars
0.51%
- 1 star
1.37%
New to Software Development? Start here.
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.