Program Overview

Introduction to the Mathematics/Computer Science Program

The Mathematics/Computer Science BS Program is a combined major offered by the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Computer Science, both within the College of Science and Engineering at Western Washington University. This program provides excellent preparation for graduate study or for careers in the technical, scientific, and mathematical application of computers.

Program Description

Computer Science at Western is organized around the study of design and analysis techniques used to write software or programs in various application areas, along with details about the internal workings of computers (known as computer architecture and operating systems). Mathematics, as a science of pattern and order, relies on logic rather than observation as its standard of truth, yet employs observation, simulation, and even experimentation as means of discovering truth.

Why Consider a Mathematics/Computer Science Major?

The Mathematics/Computer Science BS Program is ideal for students seeking to apply their knowledge and expertise in the development of computer-based solutions to complicated mathematical problems. This includes environmental and ecological modeling, scientific and engineering calculations, and statistical analysis. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as research analysts, systems analysts, technical writers, applied science technologists, and information scientists.

Program Requirements

The program requires a total of 91 credits, including:

• CSCI 141 - Computer Programming I (4 credits)
• CSCI 145 - Computer Programming and Linear Data Structures (4 credits)
• CSCI 241 - Data Structures (4 credits)
• CSCI 301 - Formal Languages and Functional Programming (5 credits)
• CSCI 305 - Analysis of Algorithms and Data Structures I (4 credits)
• CSCI 345 - Object Oriented Design (4 credits)
• CSCI 405 - Analysis of Algorithms and Data Structures II (4 credits)
• Either:
  • MATH 124 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry I (5 credits)
  • MATH 125 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry II (5 credits)
  • Or
  • MATH 134 - Calculus I Honors (5 credits)
  • MATH 135 - Calculus II Honors (5 credits)
  • Or
  • MATH 138 - Accelerated Calculus (5 credits)
• Either:
  • MATH 204 - Elementary Linear Algebra (4 credits)
  • MATH 331 - Ordinary Differential Equations (4 credits)
  • Or
  • MATH 203 - Linear Algebra and Differential Equations I (4 credits)
  • MATH 303 - Linear Algebra and Differential Equations II (4 credits)
• MATH 224 - Multivariable Calculus and Geometry I (5 credits)
• MATH 226 - Limits and Infinite Series (4 credits)
• MATH 302 - Introduction to Proofs Via Number Theory (4 credits)
• MATH 312 - Proofs in Elementary Analysis (4 credits)
• One course from:
  • MATH 430 - Fourier Series and Applications to Partial Differential Equations (4 credits)
  • MATH 432 - Systems of Differential Equations (4 credits)
• One course from:
  • MATH 341 - Probability and Statistical Inference (4 credits)
  • MATH 441 - Probability (4 credits)
• One course from:
  • MATH 304 - Linear Algebra (4 credits)
  • MATH 401 - Introduction to Abstract Algebra (4 credits)
• Three courses from:
  • M/CS 335 - Linear Optimization (4 credits)
  • M/CS 375 - Numerical Computation (4 credits)
  • M/CS 435 - Nonlinear Optimization (4 credits)
  • M/CS 475 - Numerical Analysis (4 credits)
  • M/CS 478 - Fundamentals of Cryptography (4 credits)
• 3 additional upper-division credits in mathematics or computer science as advised

University Graduation Requirements

In addition to the program requirements, students must also meet the university's graduation requirements, which include:

• General University Requirements
• Writing Proficiency Requirement (WP)
• 180 Minimum Total Credits
• 60 Minimum Upper Division Credits
• Residency Requirement
• Minimum Grade Requirements
• Final Quarter Requirement

Conclusion

The Mathematics/Computer Science BS Program at Western Washington University offers a comprehensive education in both mathematics and computer science, preparing students for a wide range of career opportunities and graduate studies. With its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on theoretical foundations and practical applications, this program is ideal for students who wish to pursue careers in the technical, scientific, and mathematical application of computers.