Mar 21, 2026  
University of Alberta Calendar 2026-2027 
    
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University of Alberta Calendar 2026-2027

CMPUT 174 - Introduction to the Foundations of Computation I

Course Career Undergraduate
Units 3
Approved Hours 3-0-3
Fee index 6
Faculty Science
Department Computing Science
Typically Offered either term

Description
CMPUT 174 and CMPUT 175 use a problem-driven approach to introduce the fundamental ideas of Computing Science. Emphasis is on the underlying process behind the solution, independent of programming language or style. Basic notions of state, control flow, data structures, recursion, modularization, and testing are introduced through solving simple problems in a variety of domains such as text analysis, map navigation, game search, simulation, and cryptography. Students learn to program by reading and modifying existing programs as well as writing new ones. No prior programming experience is necessary. Prerequisite: Math 30, 30-1, or 30-2. Credit cannot be obtained for both CMPUT 174 and CMPUT 274. Credit cannot be obtained for both CMPUT 174 and ENCMP 100.