Computer Proficiency Requirement
Approved by Faculty Council June 5, 2003
All undergraduate students entering the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia MUST demonstrate proficiency in using a computer before the end of their second non-summer semester of matriculation.
1. Students will be able to efficiently describe general computer technology including:
i. Computer parts and how they work together in a network
ii. Using an operating system
iii. Identifying file structure
iv. Saving files to disk drives
v. Loading software
vi. Using software for personal management and scheduling
vii. Creating and manipulating graphics
viii. Downloading files from the web
2. Students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of email including sending attachments via e-mail
3. Students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of word processing including:
i. Manipulating document styles, saving and retrieving documents, editing documents, and creating tables
ii. Techniques for creating, and editing documents for research reports
4. Students will demonstrate basic knowledge in the use of the Internet including the use of search engines to search the Internet.
5. Students will demonstrate correct usage of spreadsheets
i. For the analysis of numerical data using formula’s and the built-in functions
ii. To be able to graph numerical data in an appropriate format for research data with error-bars and/or trendlines (regression lines)
All undergraduate students in the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia MUST demonstrate proficiency in using a computer before graduation within their degree program.
1. Students will demonstrate knowledge in the use of the Internet including data base skills and literacy which will include familiarization with all the following activities:
i. Use of search engines to search the Internet
ii. Constructing an effective and efficient search of the Internet and relevant databases and Evaluation of websites
2. Students will demonstrate appropriate use of presentation software before graduation (to be determined by the program or major)
Proficiency can be demonstrated by either of the following 4 options:
Option 1: Successfully complete the two Proficiency Exams offered by the University.
Word Processing, using the Web and e-mail.
Spreadsheets, using the Web and e-mail
It is suggested that all students, including incoming freshmen and transfer students complete both Exams during their first non-summer semester at USP, unless they have previously completed the requirement via one of the other options. Information is available so that the student can prepare in a self-paced, self-study manner with all of the information required, easily available on the Web, in the MS-help files that are part of the software and in many books on the MS-Office products. There are also books and videotapes available in the Library. Student T.A.'s will also be available whenever possible in the Wilson 217 computer lab.
Option 2: Obtain the proper Microsoft Office Specialist certificates.
Students who have the core certificate in MS-Word have completed the Word Processing requirement.
Students who have the core certificate in MS-Excel have completed the Spreadsheet requirement.
Option 3: Take a traditional course in Computer Applications:
For those students, who wish to take a credit course or who need regular instruction, they may register for CS 110 instead of taking the Word proficiency exam and/or CS 111 instead of Spreadsheet Proficiency Exam. For information about CS 110 and CS 111 click here.
Option 4: Complete the requirement at another APPROVED Institution
Students who have completed 2 or more credits in Computer Applications with MS-Office, Word and Excel at another approved institution with a C or better have completed the Proficiency requirement. (Courses that include programming, do NOT meet the requirement.). If the course has previously been approved by the department it will be on the list in admissions, otherwise the syllabus will need to be sent to the MPCS department for approval. Transfer students who have taken and passed a computer proficiency test at another institution will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, by the MPCS Department.
Students may mix and match from the above options. e.g A student may take the MOUS Core Certificate in MS-Word and the Spreadsheet test at USP or a student may take the Word-Processing test at USP and then the CS111 course.
Students who do not complete the requirement before the end of their first non-summer semester may be REQUIRED to register for CS110 and/or CS111 during their second semester.
Students who do not complete the requirement before the end of their second non-summer semester will NOT be allowed to register for ANY other courses than CS110 and/or CS111, until the requirement has been completed by one of the above listed 4 options.
Word Processing Topics covered
Excel Spreadsheets Topics covered
TESTING Procedure, Policy, Schedule and Registration:
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions:
Department of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science
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