Western Washington University · Bellingham, Washington
Mathematics/Computer Science, BS
What Is the Study of Mathematics/Computer Science?
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).
“As a practical matter, Mathematics is a science of pattern and order. Its domain is not molecules or cells, but numbers, chance, form, algorithms, and change. As a science of abstract objects, Mathematics relies on logic rather than on observation as its standard of truth, yet employs observation, simulation, and even experimentation as means of discovering truth."
From Everybody Counts: A Report to the Nation on the Future of Mathematics Education (c) 1989 National Academy of Sciences
Why Should I Consider this Major?
The Mathematics/Computer Science BS Program provides excellent preparation for graduate study or for careers in the technical, scientific and mathematical application of computers. Graduates are able to apply their knowledge and expertise in the development of computer-based solutions of complicated mathematical problems, including environmental and ecological modeling, scientific and engineering calculations, and statistical analysis.
How to Declare:
Students are urged to declare the major formally at an early point in their Western career so that a program of study can be planned carefully in collaboration with departmental advisors. Contact the Mathematics Department when you are ready to declare this major.
Coursework
Requirements
- CSCI 141 - Computer Programming I
- CSCI 145 - Computer Programming and Linear Data Structures
- CSCI 241 - Data Structures
- CSCI 301 - Formal Languages and Functional Programming
- CSCI 305 - Analysis of Algorithms and Data Structures I
- CSCI 345 - Object Oriented Design
- CSCI 405 - Analysis of Algorithms and Data Structures II
- MATH 204 - Elementary Linear Algebra
- MATH 224 - Multivariable Calculus and Geometry I
- MATH 226 - Limits and Infinite Series
- MATH 302 - Introduction to Proofs Via Number Theory
- MATH 312 - Proofs in Elementary Analysis
- MATH 331 - Ordinary Differential Equations
- Choose either:
- MATH 124 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
- MATH 125 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry II
- OR
- MATH 134 - Calculus I Honors
- MATH 135 - Calculus II Honors
- OR
- MATH 138 - Accelerated Calculus
- One course from:
- MATH 430 - Fourier Series and Applications to Partial Differential Equations
- MATH 432 - Systems of Differential Equations
- One course from:
- MATH 341 - Probability and Statistical Inference
- MATH 441 - Probability
- One course from:
- MATH 304 - Linear Algebra
- MATH 401 - Introduction to Abstract Algebra
- NOTE: The pair MATH 203-303 may be substituted for MATH 204 and 331
- Three courses from:
- M/CS 335 - Linear Optimization
- M/CS 375 - Numerical Computation
- M/CS 435 - Nonlinear Optimization
- M/CS 475 - Numerical Analysis
- 3 additional upper-division credits in mathematics or computer science as advised
GURs:
The courses below satisfy GUR requirements and may also be used to fulfill major requirements.
- QSR: CSCI 141, 145; MATH 124, 125, 134, 135, 138
Sample Careers
- Research Analyst
- Systems Analyst
- Technical Writer
- Applied Science Technologist
- Information Scientist
Department
Contact
Mathematics Chair and Undergraduate Advisor:
Tjalling Ypma
BH 202A
(360)-650-3785
Tjalling.Ypma.@wwu.edu
Computer Science Undergraduate Advisor:
Mary Hall
CF 459
360-650-2300
Mary.Hall@wwu.edu