Some info about Comp Arch for new students at UT

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During in initial days at UT, I happened to talk to lots of people about the courses I should be taking etc. This post contains some excerpts from that :

I also talk about a few questions that have been asked by various new students joining UT, specially in computer engineering.

What courses to choose for the first sem?
People mostly end up choosing the courses which are either necessary prerequisites for other courses or if they are only offered say, once in two years or so. And definitely this sounds pretty reasonable. So for computer engineering the basic and interesting course I have heard of, in UT are

UG
Computer Architecture (360N),
Algorithms (360C),
Introduction to OS (CS372H),
Compilers,
Distributed Computing,

Grad
EPL (specially by Prof. Craig Chase),
VLSI-1
(these are not easy classes, but basic)

For the courses which are exotic / rarely offered, I think the best way is to sit in those classes for a couple of lectures, and carefully understand what the course offers and decide if it aligns with your schedule.

Most likely you are aware of the fact that basic and well known classes fill quickly. So, if you are thinking of registering for those classes, register asap. Later if you some how make your mind against taking it, cancel it. Rather than waiting to make up your mind, just register for such classes.

Some confusion regarding supporting work?
This is best resolved by your the Advisor of your track. Prof. Valvano has also compiled this useful FAQ on research and study in computer engineering:

http://users.ece.utexas.edu/~valvano/ce/

How is the grading criteria of the professor, and the work load?
This can be best answered by people who took the class, from the same prof. But be cautioned, ask atleast two people before firmly making your mind.

Balance, Work load etc?
Balancing the course work in important and to get an idea of the workload and grading policy etc., definitely attend the first couple of lectures. Carefully listen to the grading criteria etc.

Some useful links:

Here is a list of recommended courses for computer architecture from one of the students in Comp Eng at UT:
http://users.ece.utexas.edu/~suleman/comp_arch_courses.txt

Also, Prof. Brian Evans maintains a very good/detailed page for guidance of grad students. have a look at this
http://users.ece.utexas.edu/~bevans/suggested_courses.html

Enjoy!

Conks and Welcome to UT!

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