If you are a Rutgers student navigating Introduction to Computer Science (CS) courses like CS111 or CS112, you know they can be intense – especially if you are still adjusting to the logic and structure of programming. That is where RUCATS (Rutgers Computing Academic Tutoring for Students) comes in! As someone currently working through the CS curriculum, having access to peer-led, supportive tutoring has made a huge difference in my academics.
Photo credit: spec.cs.rutgers.edu
What is RUCATS?
RUCATS is a free tutoring program run by the Computer Science Department. It is designed to help all students in CS111 and CS112, whether you are stuck on a concept, debugging a function, or trying to better understand the class material. The tutors are students too, so they have taken the same courses and understand the difficulties you face.
Photo credit: spec.cs.rutgers.edu
How It Works
RUCATS offers in-person and virtual tutoring assistance. In-person tutoring can be found in the Hill Center, room 248, on the Busch Campus. Once you are there, look for the “RUCATS” sign. If you cannot attend in person, you can get virtual assistance. On your CS111 or CS112 Canvas page, you will find details under the “Tutoring” tab located on the left side of the screen. Keep in mind, the service is closed during the final exam period and for the holidays the university observes. For example, RUCATS offered the following tutoring hours during the Spring 2025 semester:
- In-Person (Closed during finals week):
Monday – Thursday: 1 PM – 7 PM
Friday: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Virtual (Closed during finals week):
Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM
Monday – Thursday: 1 PM – 7 PM
Friday: 1 PM – 5 PM
What to Expect
RUCATS is offered in a drop-in style, similar to your professor’s office hours. Each tutor spends 15 minutes with a student, which keeps things fair and efficient. Tutors will help explain concepts, clarify your logic, and guide you through your thought processes. Tutors will not write or fix your code for you.
Pro tip: Prepare for your session. Be ready to explain what your code is supposed to do in simple English. If you cannot describe what you are trying to achieve, or are pasting code from the internet, tutors are encouraged to hold off helping until you are ready to thoughtfully engage with the problem.
Why Tutoring Matters
Rutgers offers a variety of tutoring services for students to succeed in their academic careers. It is important to take advantage of these opportunities to help you feel more confident in your knowledge and abilities. RUCATS helps strengthen your foundation in computer science concepts as well as gives you the opportunity to be a part of a supportive academic community. Whether you are majoring in CS or just testing the waters, these tutoring sessions can shape your success early on. From personal experience, do not wait until you are overwhelmed. Go early, go often. RUCATS is here to help. Do not wait until submission day to attend, as it can be crowded.
Resources
Check out these resources from RUCATS:
- Visit https://spec.cs.rutgers.edu/programs/ to learn more about RUCATS and their hours
- Check out the Computer Science Department website for all things computer science related.
- Department of Computer Science: Busch Campus – 110 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Student Testimonials
What students are saying about RUCATS:
- “As a tutor at RUCATS, I’ve seen how helpful it can be for students in CS111 and CS112 to have a space to ask questions and work through concepts. Since the tutors have taken these classes too, we can explain things in a relatable and experienced way. It is a good resource for anyone looking to strengthen their understanding early on.” ~ Arshia Garg 2027, RUCATS Tutor
- “When I first started CS111, I was very overwhelmed with assignments, as CS was very new to me. I started going to RUCATS tutoring for help, and it honestly made such a difference. The tutors were patient, explained things in ways that actually made sense, and never made me feel like my questions were dumb. It helped me gain confidence and kept me from falling behind.” ~ Jayden Lin 2028, CS Student
Written by Steffina Jerald – KnightBook Student Editor