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ECE 3574 - Applied Software Design (3C)

Course Description

This course is an introduction to applied software design methods for use in the writing of efficient, reusable, and modulator C++ programs. These methods include the use of the following: classes, inheritance, and polymorphism; design patterns; high-level programming techniques using libraries, generics, and containers; widgets, models, and views; software frameworks for embedded systems; and advanced techniques ranging from multi-threading to reflective programming.

Why take this course?

Large-scale software systems are widely used in the design, analysis and testing of current computing systems. In addition, modern embedded systems run programs developed in high-level languages based on extensive software libraries. The ability to design and implement such software systems is an essential skill for computer engineers pursuing careers in industry and academia.

Learning Objectives

  • Use software design patterns and application programming interface (API) specifications to implement efficient and portable software
  • Design and implement multi-threaded and multi-process applications that rely on standardized inter-process communication and synchronization mechanisms
  • Design and implement complex software applications based on portable software frameworks and event-driven programming
  • Design, implement, and peform testing strategies including unit and integration testing

    • Resources & Links

    Two-Semester Major Design Experience

    ECE’s two-semester Major Design Experience (ECE 4805-4806) provides teams of students with simulations of the post-college world via projects specified and directed by industry partners. For more information, contact class instructor, Dr. Joe Adams.

    Textbook List

    Take a look at the Fall 2024 ECE textbook list.
    Take a look at the Spring 2025 ECE textbook list.

    Current Prerequisites & Course Offering

    For current prerequisites for a particular course, and to view course offerings for a particular semester, see the Virginia Tech Course Timetables

    ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission

    The B.S. degree in electrical engineering and the B.S. degree in computer engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

    Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) & Student Outcomes (SOs)