SWE 510: Should I take the class, or...?

(There are a number of ways to satisfy the foundation requirements)

• Testout Exam: If you have substantial programming experience, then you may be able to pass the Testout Exam in lieu of taking SWE 510 (be careful though, because practical experience and theoretical knowledge aren't necessarily the same). Additionally, even without work experience, it's possible to study the text in order to prepare for the exam. If you're dilligent, and a self-starter, then you may be successful at prepping for the Testout Exam.
• The undergraduate equivalents: the answer to this question tends to be a tradeoff between time and money. If you take the undergraduate equivalents at GMU, then it takes more time, and costs more money (two semesters rather than one). If you take the classes at NOVA then it's cheaper, but still takes two semesters. I know students who've taken the classes at NOVA and done fine in the graduate courses.

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