Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - MSE 152 D100

Digital Computing Fundamentals (3)

Class Number: 3892

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Surrey

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Prerequisites:

    CMPT 130.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Delve into critical topics such as code version control, multi-file project build systems, unit and integration testing, advanced C-programming topics including pointers, data structures, memory management, design patterns, device drivers, and real-world case studies.

COURSE DETAILS:

  • Module 1: Introduction to Code Version Control
  • Module 2: Build Systems for Multi-File Projects
  • Module 3: Fundamentals of Unit and Integration Testing
  • Module 4: Advanced C Programming Concepts – Pointers (Part 1)
  • Module 5: Advanced C Programming Concepts – Pointers (Part 2)
  • Module 6: Memory Management in C Programming
  • Module 7: Data Structures in C (Part 1)
  • Module 8: Data Structures in C (Part 2)
  • Module 9: Introduction to Design Patterns
  • Module 10: Basics of Device Drivers in C
  • Module 11: Real-World Case Studies in C Programming
  • Module 12: Final Project: Development and Presentation

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Understand the importance and use of version control systems in software development.
  • Build and manage multi-file projects using appropriate build systems.
  • Apply testing techniques to improve software reliability.
  • Develop proficiency in advanced C programming concepts like pointers and memory management.
  • Implement and utilize data structures to solve practical problems.
  • Explore design patterns and their applications in software development.
  • Gain a foundational understanding of device drivers and hardware interaction.
  • Analyze and draw insights from real-world software projects.
  • Design and present a final project integrating key course concepts.

Grading

NOTES:

  • Projects (30%)
  • Laboratory (20%)
  • Tests (50%)

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.