Computer architecture and organization
About the course
The course can be taken as a singular course.
The course is basic and deals with the structure, design, and low-level programming of modern computers. In addition to fundamental principles for the construction of computers, technological developments that affect the design of new computer architectures or implementation are also addressed, decisions included in the construction of computers, as well as performance criteria for evaluating these decisions. The course deals with processors, storage, interconnections to peripherals as well as parallel processors. No prior knowledge of low-level programming or digital engineering is required.
Admission requirements
Objectives of the course
Knowledge - The students has knowledge about:
- the structure and construction of modern computers, including instruction set architecture, processor design, memory hierarchy, storage and other I/O types, and multi-core processors.
- methods and tools for evaluating computer architecture components, including performance and various design choices for building components.
- how computer architecture interacts with machine programming and operational systems.
Skills - The students has skills in:
- low-level (assembly) programming for MIPS and x86/x86-64 instruction set
- implementation of simulators for MIPS processor simulation
- evaluation of memory hierarchy parameters
- discussion and description of computer architecture and organization
General competence - The student has general competency in:
- in-depth understanding of technological developments that affect the design and implementation of computer architectures
- knowledge for the choice and design of computer architecture based on the requirements of different systems and applications
- knowledge of computer architecture behavior and impact on machine programming and low-level system development
Prerequisites
Anbefalte forkunnskaper
INF-1101 Data structures and algorithms, INF-1400 Object-oriented programming
Credit reduction
If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:
- D-241 Computer architecture 10 ects
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
The language of instruction is English and all of the syllabus material is in English. Examination questions will be given in English, but may be answered either in English or a Scandinavian language.Schedule
The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.
It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.
Information to incoming exchange students
This course is open to incoming exchange students.
Study Level: Bachelor's
Admission prerequisites:
To take this course, you must first meet the requirements listed in the “Admission requirements” section above.
For details on how to apply for exchange, course selection guidelines, or to contact the Incoming Admissions Team, please visit: Admissions for Student Exchange.
Examination
| School exam | Date: 25.11.2026 09:00 Duration: 4 Hours |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Written assignments | Grade: Approved – not approved |
Everything you need to know about before, during, and after the exam; registration, absence, appeals, and diplomas: UiT Exams homepage
