Learn from Industry Veterans
Our system programming curriculum is crafted and taught by developers who've spent decades building the software infrastructure that powers modern computing.
Meet Your Instructors
These aren't typical programming teachers. Our instructors have architected operating systems, optimized compilers, and debugged kernel-level issues that would make most developers sweat.
Each brings a unique perspective shaped by years of solving real-world system challenges in enterprise environments.
Caelum Rodriguez
Background & Expertise
Caelum spent 15 years at major tech firms designing distributed systems that handle millions of concurrent users. His expertise covers everything from memory management optimization to building custom schedulers for high-performance applications. He's particularly passionate about teaching the "why" behind system design decisions that most textbooks skip over.
Dashiell Chen
Background & Expertise
Before teaching, Dashiell led compiler optimization teams and contributed to several open-source language implementations. His approach focuses on understanding how code actually executes at the machine level. Students appreciate his ability to explain complex concepts through practical examples they'll encounter in real development scenarios.
How We Actually Teach This Stuff
System programming isn't something you learn by watching videos or memorizing syntax. Our approach emphasizes hands-on problem-solving with real codebases and the kind of debugging scenarios you'll face in professional environments.
Code-First Learning
You'll start writing system-level code from week one. We believe in learning by doing rather than spending months on theory. Each concept is immediately applied to real programs you can run, break, and fix.
Debug-Driven Development
Half of system programming is debugging when things go wrong. You'll work with intentionally broken code, learn to read crash dumps, and develop the investigative skills that separate junior from senior developers.
Architecture Discussions
Beyond just writing code, you'll participate in design discussions about trade-offs, performance implications, and architectural decisions. These conversations mirror what happens in professional development teams.
Personal Guidance Throughout Your Journey
This isn't a course where you're left to figure things out alone. Each student works directly with instructors who provide feedback, answer questions, and help navigate the challenging parts of system-level development.
Initial Assessment
We evaluate your current programming background and identify areas that need attention
Personalized Path
Your learning sequence is adjusted based on your strengths and career goals
Regular Check-ins
Weekly one-on-one sessions to review progress and tackle challenging concepts
Portfolio Development
Build substantial projects that demonstrate your system programming capabilities
Applications Open for Fall 2025
Our next cohort begins in September. We accept a limited number of students to ensure quality mentorship.
Learn About Application Process