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What level of math do I need for a computer science major?

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computer-science
Thank you comment icon Math and Computer Science are the same thing: Math is problem solving. You have a huge problem you want to solve, and you break it down into smaller steps you know how to solve. Computer Science is the same thing. You have a large task, and you need to break it down into smaller pieces you know how to code. So I would argue lots of math - although schools often call a lot of it computer science. Fred Rosenberger
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John’s Answer

In terms of education, this will depend on the college you attend. They all have different requirements to complete certain majors, but you most likely will have to complete a few levels of calculus. In terms of jobs, computer science can range from no math to all math. There are physics softwares that require an extreme knowledge of math to work on and understand.
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James’s Answer

It may vary depending on what college you attend. You might need statistics and calculus, or maybe even higher to linear algebra and differential equations.
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Rebecca’s Answer

In Computer Science, it does not have a lot of intensive calculation. Having said that, there are subjects on Computer Theories, Algorithm, etc. This subjects helps you to understand how to utilize the computer resources in the most efficient ways. It requires a good mathematics background.
On the other hand, in a lot of circumstances, you may need to do coding on maths related applications, e.g. accounting, financial model in Financial Institutions, statistics, etc. You may need to have a good mathematical background to do coding in these aspects.
Unlike the other engineering subjects, it does not do a lot of maths in the course itself but you still need to have good fundamental understanding in Maths.
Hope this this helps! Good Luck!
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josh’s Answer

You will usually need a high level of statistics as that is one of the key pillars to computer / data science. Mix in the coding too and you will be very valuable.
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Catherine’s Answer

Just to add a little bit. It is dependent on the university. I completed my BS/MS at a University that was not an Engineering school and so I was not required to take the math that would have been required at other schools. I think the highest level I completed was Calc 1. I think you need to make sure you find the program that would best prepare you for your goals. If you want to do software engineering in which you are working with firmware or devices, you really need to attend an engineering based program. If your goals are around UI development or design, you may want to seek a school that has a good foundation for that type of development. If you really want to be a software engineer that is capable of working in several areas, then find a school that is known for providing a solid foundation (that may involve more math) and a foundation in data structures and algorithms will be very essential. Most of the big tech companies require coding interviews (usually in the language of your choice), and data structures and algorithms are usually at the core of those coding exercises.
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