COMPSCI 552
Programming Languages
Danfeng Zhang
Description from DukeHub
Whether designing systems, writing high-quality code or learning a new programming language, the ability to reason about language behavior and structure is a critical skill. Through analytical comparison, the course examines core topics such as language syntax and semantics, type systems, control structures, memory management, as well as cutting-edge language features, such as formal verification and static program analysis. Emphasis will be placed on both theoretical foundations and practical insights. By the end of the course, students will be able to critically evaluate language design choices, understand the trade-offs involved in language implementation, and apply this knowledge to write clearer, more reliable programs. Prerequisite: Data Structure, Discrete Math.
Skills
- programmingdescription: "code" and 2 more
- writingdescription: "writing" and 1 more
- designdescription: "designing" and 1 more
AI-resilient: 0 of 5
- No: Physical, lab or field work
- No: Live work with people
- No: Judgment someone is accountable for
- No: A craft you practice with your hands or body
- No: Small, in-person format
The checks lean on Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025), which found generative AI applies least to physical work and hands-on work with people. A signal, not a promise. How the score works
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- Discrete Math for Computer Science COMPSCI 230
- Computer Architecture COMPSCI 250D