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Mathematics and Computer Science Advising Guide
Computer Science
Introduction
Courses in
the department are organized into two major programs: mathematics and computer
science. Students select courses from
either or both fields, and frequently complete a double major in the two
areas. In general terms, the programs start
with the more immediately applicable (Calculus and Introduction to Computer
Science), develop intermediate themes (Analysis, Algebraic Structures,
Programming Language Structures, Computer Organization and Architecture),
branch out in other directions as appropriate to personal interests, and then
return to foundational questions.
Computer Science
Computing has
become pervasive in society. People use
computers and software to prepare documents, send e-mail and text messages,
make phone calls, visit web sites, play games, listen to music and watch
videos. Computing devices with appropriate software recognize handwriting,
faces and voices; they monitor, control, park and even drive automobiles; they
conduct business in financial markets and assist with medical diagnoses and
procedures. Scientists use computers to collect, analyze and visualize data.
Computer simulations are used to test biological, chemical, environmental and
social theories. Results and predictions
from these simulations frequently inform decisions and influence policy.
Given this
pervasiveness, students from all fields of study are likely to benefit from a
greater understanding of computing devices and software. Taking one or a few
courses in computer science will provide practical software development skills
and greater perspective on computing systems.
Completing a minor or major in computer science will prepare students to
become the designers, creators, advocates for and critics of future computing
systems.
The Computer
Science major at Dickinson is built around enduring principles, theories and
practices that underlie computing devices and the software that they run. Early courses introduce tools and techniques
for software development, providing concrete programming skills as well as
general insights into how computers are commanded to do what they do. Intermediate level courses explore the inner
workings of computer hardware and efficient ways to store, search and process
large amounts of information. Later courses use the knowledge and skills gained
from earlier courses to investigate topics including: operating systems,
computer networks, artificial intelligence, database systems, programming
languages and the theoretical limits of what computers can and cannot do.
Students finish their major with a yearlong senior capstone course in which
they address contemporary social, legal and ethical issues raised by computing
while undertaking a software development project for a client or engaging in
computer science research with a faculty member.
Courses appropriate for prospective majors
COMP 131,
Introduction to Computer Science I
If a student has taken the AP computer
science exam, placement into COMP 132, 232, or 251 is possible based upon the
score received. Please see the Registrar’s webpage for specific information on
placement based upon an AP score. If a student has extensive programming
experience through a high school course or on his or her own then placement
into COMP 132 is possible through consultation with the computer science
faculty. Please contact Professor Tim Wahls for
additional information.
Introductory courses that
fulfill distribution requirements
Division III:
COMP 131, Computer Science I
COMP 132, Computer Science II
COMP 232, Data Structures and Problem Solving
Quantitative Reasoning:
COMP 131, Computer Science I
COMP 132, Computer Science II
COMP 232, Data Structures and Problem
Solving
Writing Intensive
Completing both COMP 251 and COMP 332
satisfies the college writing requirement.
For course
descriptions and requirements for the major, refer to the Academic Bulletin: Mathematics & Computer Science.
Mathematics
Introduction
As part of a liberal arts education, the ability to think in mathematical terms is a critical part of the learning process. Mathematics is vital to understanding science, technology, and society; studying Mathematics at Dickinson will reveal the power and beauty of the subject. If a student is interested in majoring in Mathematics, pursuing a course of study that requires mathematics, or merely interested in taking some college-level mathematics courses, he or she should start this pursuit in the fall of their first year. It is advisable not to wait a year or even a semester in the continuation of mathematical studies.
Courses
appropriate for prospective majors
MATH 121, Elementary Statistics (fall and spring semesters)
MATH 151, Introduction to Calculus (fall and spring semesters)
MATH 170, Single Variable Calculus (fall and spring semesters)
MATH 171, Multivariable Calculus (fall and spring semesters)
MATH 211, Discrete Mathematics (fall semester only)
MATH 270, Integration and Infinite Series (spring semester only)
To
determine placement, we recommend visiting this online, interactive placement guide.
Introductory courses that fulfill distribution
requirements
Quantitative Reasoning: Every introductory
course in the mathematics department satisfies the QR requirement.
Writing Intensive: MATH 211 (Discrete Mathematics) satisfies the college writing
requirement.
For course descriptions and requirements for the major, refer to the Academic Bulletin: Mathematics & Computer Science.