ECE 13Computer Systems and C Programming
Computer Systems and C Programming is intended to bring students up to speed on programming small and large programs in C. Originally written in 1978, C remains the most popular programming language, and the most used one in terms of numbers of computer programs written in it. The course approaches C from an embedded paradigm, and all programming assignments are on a 32-bit embedded micro, the Microchip PIC32. Students learn how to program in C, how to write modular code, and some of the tips and tricks when dealing with an embedded micro. This is a programming class and students will write lots of code. Expect to spend at least 15-20 hours outside of class playing with the code to get things to work. (Formerly CSE 13E Embedded Systems and C Programming; Students cannot receive credit for ECE 13, CSE 13S, and CSE 13E.)
Prerequisite(s): CSE 12. CSE 20 or CSE 30 (Python programming background) is recommended but not required. Programming experience in any other language is also acceptable.
- If you completed the prerequisites but get an error message: UCSC Students - email your proof of prerequisite material to the department at bsoeadv@ucsc.edu for approval.
- Visiting Students - email your proof of prerequisite material to the instructor for approval to enroll - Jack Lin, jlin143@ucsc.edu.
Find a section and add it to your scheduleLive seat counts, time-conflict checks and the walk from your previous class.
When it runs
Fall 2026Open Fall 2026
| Section | Type | When | Where | Instructor | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Lecture | Mon Wed Fri 2:40pm–3:45pm | Humn Lecture Hall | T. Huh | Open 81/170 |
Summer 2026Open Summer 2026
| Section | Type | When | Where | Instructor | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Lecture | Mon Wed Fri 10:40am–11:45am | J Baskin Engr 165 | J. Lin | Open 21/30 |
Spring 2026Open Spring 2026
| Section | Type | When | Where | Instructor | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Lecture | Tue Thu 1:30pm–3:05pm | J Bask Aud 101 | S. McGuire | Open 191/200 |
Fall 2025Open Fall 2025
| Section | Type | When | Where | Instructor | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Lecture | Tue Thu 5:20pm–6:55pm | Thim Lecture 003 | S. McGuire | Closed 142/0 |
Who teaches it
| Instructor | Rating | Difficulty | Would take again | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steve Mcguire | 4.0 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | 80% | 20 |
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