Curriculum Overview for Computer Science Program
The Computer Science curriculum at Aditya University Kakinada is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of computing. The program spans eight semesters, with each semester offering a balanced mix of core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions.
Semester-wise Course Structure
| Year | Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Year | Semester I | CS101 | Introduction to Programming | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| CS102 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3-0-0-3 | CS101 | ||
| CS103 | Digital Logic Design | 3-0-0-3 | - | ||
| MA101 | Calculus and Analytical Geometry | 4-0-0-4 | - | ||
| PH101 | Physics for Computer Science | 3-0-0-3 | - | ||
| HS101 | English Communication | 2-0-0-2 | - | ||
| First Year | Semester II | CS201 | Object-Oriented Programming with Java | 3-0-0-3 | CS101 |
| CS202 | Database Management Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS102 | ||
| CS203 | Computer Organization and Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | CS103 | ||
| MA201 | Linear Algebra and Differential Equations | 4-0-0-4 | MA101 | ||
| PH201 | Modern Physics | 3-0-0-3 | PH101 | ||
| HS201 | Professional Communication | 2-0-0-2 | - | ||
| Second Year | Semester III | CS301 | Operating Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS201, CS203 |
| CS302 | Software Engineering Principles | 3-0-0-3 | CS201 | ||
| CS303 | Computer Networks | 3-0-0-3 | CS203 | ||
| MA301 | Probability and Statistics | 4-0-0-4 | MA201 | ||
| CH301 | Chemistry for Engineers | 3-0-0-3 | - | ||
| HS301 | Human Values and Ethics | 2-0-0-2 | - | ||
| Second Year | Semester IV | CS401 | Web Technologies | 3-0-0-3 | CS201, CS202 |
| CS402 | Compiler Design | 3-0-0-3 | CS301, CS303 | ||
| CS403 | Distributed Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS301 | ||
| MA401 | Numerical Methods and Optimization | 4-0-0-4 | MA201 | ||
| CH401 | Environmental Science | 3-0-0-3 | - | ||
| HS401 | Business Communication | 2-0-0-2 | - | ||
| Third Year | Semester V | CS501 | Machine Learning | 3-0-0-3 | CS301, MA301 |
| CS502 | Cryptography and Network Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS303 | ||
| CS503 | Data Mining and Warehousing | 3-0-0-3 | CS202, MA301 | ||
| CS504 | User Interface Design | 3-0-0-3 | CS302 | ||
| CS505 | Embedded Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS203, CS301 | ||
| CS506 | Advanced Database Systems | 3-0-0-3 | CS202 | ||
| Third Year | Semester VI | CS601 | Deep Learning | 3-0-0-3 | CS501, MA301 |
| CS602 | Network Security | 3-0-0-3 | CS502 | ||
| CS603 | Big Data Technologies | 3-0-0-3 | CS503 | ||
| CS604 | Human-Computer Interaction | 3-0-0-3 | CS504 | ||
| CS605 | Mobile Application Development | 3-0-0-3 | CS401, CS505 | ||
| CS606 | Cloud Computing | 3-0-0-3 | CS301, CS303 | ||
| Fourth Year | Semester VII | CS701 | Research Methodology | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| CS702 | Capstone Project I | 4-0-0-4 | - | ||
| CS703 | Special Topics in Computer Science | 3-0-0-3 | - | ||
| CS704 | Internship | 2-0-0-2 | - | ||
| CS705 | Project Management | 3-0-0-3 | - | ||
| CS706 | Professional Ethics and Legal Issues | 2-0-0-2 | - | ||
| Fourth Year | Semester VIII | CS801 | Capstone Project II | 6-0-0-6 | CS702 |
| CS802 | Advanced Topics in AI | 3-0-0-3 | CS501 | ||
| CS803 | Advanced Cryptography | 3-0-0-3 | CS502 | ||
| CS804 | Big Data Analytics | 3-0-0-3 | CS603 | ||
| CS805 | Advanced Software Engineering | 3-0-0-3 | CS202 | ||
| CS806 | Entrepreneurship in Tech | 2-0-0-2 | - |
Detailed Course Descriptions for Departmental Electives
The department offers a wide range of advanced elective courses that allow students to explore specialized areas within computer science. These courses are designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in specific domains.
Machine Learning (CS501)
This course introduces students to fundamental concepts in machine learning, including supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms, neural networks, decision trees, and ensemble methods. Students will learn how to apply these techniques to real-world problems using Python and popular libraries such as scikit-learn and TensorFlow.
Cryptography and Network Security (CS502)
This course covers the principles of modern cryptography, including symmetric and asymmetric encryption, hash functions, digital signatures, and key management. It also explores network security threats and countermeasures, with emphasis on secure protocol design and implementation.
Data Mining and Warehousing (CS503)
Students will learn about data warehousing concepts, ETL processes, OLAP systems, and various data mining techniques such as clustering, classification, association rule mining, and anomaly detection. The course includes hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like SQL Server Integration Services and Apache Spark.
User Interface Design (CS504)
This elective focuses on the principles of user-centered design, including usability evaluation, interaction design patterns, prototyping, and accessibility guidelines. Students will develop practical skills in designing intuitive interfaces for web and mobile applications using tools like Figma and Adobe XD.
Embedded Systems (CS505)
This course explores the architecture and programming of embedded systems, including microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, sensors, actuators, and communication protocols. Students will gain experience in developing firmware for IoT devices and other embedded applications using C/C++ and ARM-based platforms.
Advanced Database Systems (CS506)
This course delves into advanced topics in database design and implementation, including indexing strategies, query optimization, transaction management, recovery mechanisms, and distributed databases. Students will learn to implement complex database schemas and optimize performance using SQL and NoSQL technologies.
Deep Learning (CS601)
This course provides an in-depth exploration of deep learning architectures such as convolutional neural networks, recurrent neural networks, transformers, and generative adversarial networks. Students will implement models using frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow, focusing on real-world applications in image recognition, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning.
Network Security (CS602)
This advanced course examines current trends in network security, including intrusion detection systems, firewalls, VPN technologies, and secure network architecture. Students will study attack vectors and defensive mechanisms, with emphasis on hands-on lab exercises using tools like Wireshark, Nmap, and Metasploit.
Big Data Technologies (CS603)
This course introduces students to the ecosystem of big data technologies, including Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, and Cassandra. Students will learn to process large datasets using distributed computing frameworks and apply analytical techniques to extract meaningful insights from complex data structures.
Human-Computer Interaction (CS604)
This course explores cognitive psychology, design theory, and user experience principles in the context of modern computing environments. Students will conduct usability studies, create prototypes, and evaluate interfaces using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
Mobile Application Development (CS605)
This elective covers mobile app development for iOS and Android platforms, including UI design, backend integration, and deployment strategies. Students will build cross-platform applications using Flutter or React Native, learning to integrate APIs, manage state, and optimize performance.
Cloud Computing (CS606)
This course explores cloud computing models, service delivery types, and infrastructure management platforms. Students will learn to deploy scalable applications on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud using containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department emphasizes project-based learning as a cornerstone of its educational approach. This methodology ensures that students acquire practical skills while applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.
Mini-Projects Structure
Throughout the program, students engage in mini-projects that span multiple semesters. These projects are designed to foster collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation. Each project is assigned a mentor from the faculty team who provides guidance throughout the development cycle.
The mini-projects typically involve:
- Problem identification and scoping
- Research and feasibility analysis
- Design and prototyping phases
- Implementation and testing
- Presentation and documentation
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year capstone project is a significant undertaking that allows students to demonstrate mastery in their chosen specialization. Students select projects aligned with industry needs or personal interests, often collaborating with faculty members or external partners.
Key aspects of the capstone project include:
- Proposal development and approval
- Research methodology and data collection
- Design and implementation of solution
- Testing and validation procedures
- Presentation to faculty committee and industry experts
Project Selection Process
Students have multiple avenues for selecting their projects:
- Faculty-led research initiatives
- Industry collaboration opportunities
- Personal interest projects with mentor approval
- Competitive challenges and hackathons
- Entrepreneurial ventures within the university ecosystem
The selection process involves a proposal submission, review by faculty advisors, and final approval based on feasibility and relevance to the program's learning objectives.