USACO Bronze
Online Only
Note: One of the programming languages can be used in class: Python, Java or C++. Class examples and homework solutions will be given in Python, Java and C++.
2026 Summer
USACO Bronze Summer
Instructor: Zhang, Ph.D.
Dates: June 14 – August 30
Sunday 1PM – 3PM CT
Fee: $829
2026 Spring
USACO Bronze Spring
Instructor: Zhang, Ph.D.
Saturday 1PM – 3PM CST
Dates: Feb 7 to May 2
No Class Date: Feb 21
Prereq: Bronze Fall or Java
Note: A mid-term and a final test will be given
Bronze (Fall/Spring/Summer)
This class focuses on USACO Bronze division training, covering topics such as program flow, operations and functions, arrays/ArrayLists/vectors, strings, and recursion. Students will develop fluency in essential techniques, including sorting, searching, simulation, and greedy algorithms. An introduction to computational complexity is also included. Extensive practice, both in and after class, is required to reinforce learning. [languages allowed: C++/Java/Python]
Prerequisite
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Proficient with C++/Java/Python Programing
Next Class
- Though 3 Bronze classes (fall, spring, summer) may cover similar topics, different practice problems and homework questions will be used. Students who are promoted to USACO Silver will advance to USACO Silver Class. Others will need to take Bronze multiple semesters (fall, spring, summer) until they are promoted to Silver in the official contest.
Are you ready for Bronze?
- Take the self-assessment test (60 minutes) below
- If students complete 70%+ of test cases correctly, they are ready for Bronze
USACO Bronze
Topics
01. Loops
02. Conditional Statements
03. Arrays/ArrayLists/vectors
04. Strings
05. Prime Numbers and Factors
06. Functions and mapping
07. Points and Intervals
08. Sorting and Searching
09. Simulation
10. Greedy Algorithms
11. Introduction to Computational Complexity
12. Summary and quiz
Homework
Weekly homework will be assigned, usually 6-8 problems. We are expecting students to spend 2-4 hours to complete the homework. Both test cases and output will be provided. Solutions to homework problems will be posted every Saturday.
The teacher will spend the first 15 minutes of each class to go over the key takeaways from the homework.
