Topics to be covered may include philosophy of computers, history of computers, computers and society, simulation, graphics, and other advanced topics.
Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in COS 285, or permission of instructor.
Credits: 3 – 4
Recent Topics Courses
Algorithms for Analysis of Combinatorial Games (Summer 2025)
This course introduces students to combinatorial game theory and standard algorithms for analysis. Topics include backtracking to determine long paths, dynamic programming, Sprague-Grundy Theory, complexity classes, algorithmic complexity, and optimization methods, including genetic algorithms, hill climbing, and simulated annealing.
Mathematics of Machine Learning (Spring 2025)
This course provides a rigorous, in-depth exploration of the mathematical foundations of machine learning. Students will gain a deep understanding of key algorithms, including linear regression, classification, and optimization techniques. Emphasis is placed on deriving, analyzing, and implementing these algorithms from scratch without relying on prebuilt libraries or packages. Through hands-on programming exercises, students will not only learn the theory behind each algorithm but will also develop the practical skills to implement them in a programming language like Python or Julia. This course is designed for those who want to build a strong mathematical and computational understanding of machine learning.
Image Processing and Computer Vision (Fall 2024)
In “Image Processing and Computer Vision,” students will delve into the fascinating realm of visual data analysis. The curriculum covers fundamental image processing concepts, leveraging the powerful OpenCV library. From mastering basic image manipulation techniques to exploring Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for advanced computer vision tasks, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of visual data analysis. This hands-on course combines theoretical foundations with real-world implementation, empowering students to apply their knowledge in diverse fields such as computer vision, artificial intelligence, and image recognition.
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