The UNL Computer Science Placement Exam (CSPE) is an on-line exam consisting of 50 multiple choice questions that usually takes under an hour to complete. The purpose is to determine which entry-level computer science course is appropriate, based on aptitude and foundational knowledge of logic, problem solving, and mathematics; or experience with a high-level programming language.
Who should take the exam
All new and transferring students should take the exam, unless you have successfully completed Computer Science I at the collegiate level.
How the CSPE is organized
The first half of the exam (through question 25) is used to determine which of CSCE 101 (Computing Fundamentals) or CSCE 155 (Computer Science I, in any of several flavors) is more appropriate, given the aptitude and foundational knowledge of the student in logic, problem solving, and mathematics. The resulting recommendation will be for one of these courses, or indeterminate - though suggesting CSCE 101. Note that no previous programming experience is necessary for taking CSCE 155.
The optional second half of the exam (starting at exercise 26) is used to determine if the student has sufficient programming experience to skip CSCE 155 and proceed directly to CSCE 156 (Computer Science II). This may result in a second recommendation. There is no obligation to skip CSCE 155, considering CSCE 156 might not apply to the program of study for the student if the major is other than computer science or engineering. Students who do skip CSCE 155 and succeed with at least a C on the first attempt in CSCE 156 will be entitled to retroactive credit for CSCE 155 at no cost.
Placement recommendation
Following the exam, you will receive one of four recommendations for enrollment:
- Based on your performance in the placement test, you probably do not have the prerequisite knowledge for CSCE 155. You should consider enrolling in CSCE 101 before attempting CSCE 155.
- Based on your performance in the placement test, it is not certain that you have the prerequisite knowledge for CSCE 155. You may wish to visit with the Chief Undergraduate Advisor of CSE before deciding on CSCE 101 or CSCE 155.
- Based on your performance in the placement test, you have the prerequisite knowledge for CSCE 155. You may enroll in CSCE 155 now.
- Based on your performance in the placement test, you have the prerequisite knowledge for CSCE 156. You may enroll in CSCE 156 now.
Taking the CSPE
Instructions
The placement exam typically takes under an hour to complete, but will time out after 90 minutes. However, you will be able to repeat the exam up to 5 times.
The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions. After you select an answer to a question, press the "Save and Next" button to save your answer and move to the next question. You may navigate between questions by using the "Previous" and "Next" links at the top of the screen, however, your answer will be lost if you have not previously saved it using the "Save and Next" button. Do not use the browser "Back" and "Forward" buttons to navigate between questions.
On the last screen of the exam you will be prompted to submit your exam for grading. Verify you have answered all of the questions. You may use the Previous and Next links to navigate between questions. Note: If you make any changes to your answers, you must use the "Save and Next" button to record your answer.
Exam completion
Once you have completed the exam, results will be used to assess the level of your prerequisite knowledge for CSCE 101, CSCE 155, and CSCE 156. Department researchers may also use your results, aggregated with those from other students, to continue to better calibrate the exam.
