Program Overview
Mathematics: Computer Science Emphasis
Overview
The Mathematics: Computer Science Emphasis program is designed for students who aspire to earn a graduate degree or work in computer science. This program positions students for in-demand careers by providing a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply computational methods; Math majors should be able to apply computational methods and mathematical concepts to analyze scientific problems
- Apply mathematical models to current problems; Math majors should be able to critically evaluate and extend selected mathematical models in the current scientific literature.
- Create valid proofs; Students should be able to identify an appropriate proof strategy and almost always able to create a correct proof using multiple strategies as appropriate.
- Define Terms Precisely; Precision is essential in mathematics, and a crucial skill for math majors is to learn to define mathematical terms precisely.
- Effective communication of results; Math majors should be able to effectively communicate results to non-specialized audiences in written and verbal form.
- Recognize valid arguments; Logical rigor is a critical component of mathematical argumentation. We expect math majors to develop the ability to recognize when arguments are valid, and identify logical gaps and flaws.
Program Details
Sample Courses
- MATH 475A: Mathematical Principles of Numerical Analysis
- MATH 443: Theory of Graphs and Networks
- MATH 445: Introduction to Cryptography
Career Fields
- Tech startups
- Software development
- Information security
- Machine learning
- Data engineering
WUE Eligible?
Yes, at WUE Certain Locations
WUE students attending the UA pay 150% of the in-state resident tuition. Residency in a participating state is not a guarantee of admission to a WUE program. In addition to the UA admission requirements, some WUE programs at the UA have additional criteria such as higher minimum SAT/ACT test scores or high school GPAs. Some programs may also set a limit on the number of WUE students they accept each year due. Information on the WUE programs offered by the UA is available by selecting either UA Main or CAST.
Level of Math
Substantial Knowledge
This strand involves skill and facility with calculus. The S-strand begins at one of two calculus options - MATH 122A/B (Functions for Calculus and First-Semester Calculus) or MATH 125 (Calculus I). Students who successfully complete the S-strand may continue on to MATH 129 (Calculus II), MATH 223 (Vector Calculus), or beyond. Those who choose but are not ready to begin the S-strand will be required to take preparatory work.
Level of Second Language
2nd Semester Proficiency
Second-semester skill level in a second language is required. Non-B.A. degree students may fulfill this requirement with one of the following options: 1. Scoring the equivalent of second-semester skill level on an entrance or placement examination administered by The University of Arizona. 2. Completion with a C or better of a second semester course at the post-secondary level. 3. An AP (Advanced Placement), IB (International Baccalaureate) or CLEP (College Level Entrance Program) language score determined by the individual language department. 4. In the College of Engineering by a method determined within the College; however, all students in the college must also take a language placement examination on entrance to the University.
Pre-major Required?
No
This Major's College
College of Science
Degree
Bachelor of Science
Sample Plans
2025, Mathematics: Computer Science Emphasis
- 4-Year Sample Plan
- Map Transfer Coursework
- Plan Ahead with a Transfer Pathway
First Year
- 1st Semester
- MATH 122A Functions for Calculus
- MATH 122B First-Semester Calculus
- ENGL 101 - First Year Writing 1 (GE Foundation Composition)
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- GE Foundation Second Language (First Semester)
- Introduction to the General Education Experience (Entry Course)
- 2nd Semester
- MATH 129 Calculus II
- Supporting Computer Science ex. CSC 110 Intro to Computer Programming I
- ENGL 102 - First Year Writing 2 (GE Foundation Composition)
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- GE Foundation Second Language (Second Semester)
Second Year
- 3rd Semester
- MATH 223 Vector Calculus
- MATH 313 Intro to Linear Algebra
- Supporting Laboratory Science
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- General Elective
- 4th Semester
- MATH 323 Formal Math Reasong + Wrtg
- MATH 396L - required with MATH 323 in some cases
- MATH 355 Anls Ord Diff Equations
- Supporting Laboratory Science
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
Third Year
- 5th Semester
- Computer Science Mathematics Emphasis Elective ex. MATH 443 Theory of Graphs and Networks
- Minor course
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- General Elective
- General Elective
- 6th Semester
- Computer Science Emphasis Linear Algebra Course ex. MATH 413 Linear Algebra
- Minor course
- Minor course
- GE Core: Exploring Perspectives or Building Connections
- General Elective
- General Education Portfolio (Exit Course)
Fourth Year
- 7th Semester
- Computer Science Emphasis Sequence Course ex. MATH 475A Math. Princ. of Numerical Analysis
- Minor course
- Minor course
- Mathematics Application Course
- 8th Semester
- Computer Science Emphasis Sequence Course ex. MATH 485 Mathematical Modeling
- Computer Science Mathematics Emphasis Elective ex. MATH 445 Cryptography
- Minor course
- General Elective
