Why is math required for a computer science degree?

[Anonymous]

DC considering Computer Science as a major (not yet on college) and asked me why math is necessary for computer science as DC didn’t need any math for the programming or robotics experience (think summer camps, very little exposure).
I have no idea of the answer. Can someone please explain?

[Anonymous]

If you have to ask, you're not going to comprehend the explanation tbh.

[Anonymous]

So that is what I should tell DC? Sorry kid, if you have to ask you will not comprehend the answer.
So, DC has told me “I can explain to you but I cannot make you understand”. At least DC can give an explanation.

[Anonymous]

Your DC should just keep taking math.

[Anonymous]

"If you write word processors, or SQL backends, or web site CSS, then you will use only basic algebra at most. However, if you get into ML and AI, then you will likely need to know vector math, statistics, a little calculus, and at least some probability theory."

https://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2018/10/22/is-computer-science-really-all-about-math/#442795a4366b

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If you have to ask, you're not going to comprehend the explanation tbh.

Gee wiz.. you are too precious to answer!?

Don't mind this poster OP.
Seem that many people tried to help you and I am sure you can take it from there.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:So that is what I should tell DC? Sorry kid, if you have to ask you will not comprehend the answer.
So, DC has told me “I can explain to you but I cannot make you understand”. At least DC can give an explanation.

Good come back! OP. This person is everywhere, they need to either get layed or lay off..

OP, remember that intelligent people ask intelligent questions and they can get intelligent answers form people who are intelligent. If someone can not answer they either not know or are not skillful enough to form the answer.

Luckily plenty other nice people came to your help.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If you have to ask, you're not going to comprehend the explanation tbh.

This is correct.


Longerform answer:
Computer science IS math. The type of reasoning you need to build solid software is very akin to mathematical reasoning.
And that’s not even saying anything about data analysis like that needed for profiling, algorithms, or things like queuing theory in network programming.

A bit harsh but it’s late so I’ll be blunt: being a low-level code monkey doesn’t require much math. But that’s not really computer science and it’s not where the bucks are.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:If you have to ask, you're not going to comprehend the explanation tbh.

This is correct.


Longerform answer:
Computer science IS math. The type of reasoning you need to build solid software is very akin to mathematical reasoning.
And that’s not even saying anything about data analysis like that needed for profiling, algorithms, or things like queuing theory in network programming.

A bit harsh but it’s late so I’ll be blunt: being a low-level code monkey doesn’t require much math. But that’s not really computer science and it’s not where the bucks are.

+1 to all of this.

If you're not good at math, it's honestly better to save yourself (and your poor professors!) the trouble and just study something like law. No reasoning ability needed there.

[Anonymous]

Yes. Not just math. High level of math.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:DC considering Computer Science as a major (not yet on college) and asked me why math is necessary for computer science as DC didn’t need any math for the programming or robotics experience (think summer camps, very little exposure).
I have no idea of the answer. Can someone please explain?

That's a deep question. Math helps in all areas of CS (considering that CS used to be a subarea of Math).

In the context of this discussion, specifically, I highly recommend you look at the math requirements on the checksheets for the specific CS program your DC is interested in.
For example, to name one state school (VT): https://registrar.vt.edu/content/dam/registrar_vt_edu/documents/Updates/coe/2020/coe_cs_20.pdf
Then look at the AP conversion sheet: https://registrar.vt.edu/content/dam/registrar_vt_edu/documents/Updates/ap_ib_clep/AP-Credits-2018.pdf

For instance, in year 1, they require Math 1225/1226 which the conversion sheet shows as equivalent to AP Calculus AB/BC. Then Multivariable Calc, Discrete Math, and Linear Algebra in Year 2, and Combinatorics in Year 3. These courses form the foundation for the required CS Theory course in Year 4. Note, however, that this is not Math at the level of a Math degree. Very little, if at all, proof-based.

Other programs have different requirements. There's an ongoing discussion in the CS community how much math to require. The VT requirements, for instance, are weaker than a few years ago when Differential Equations was also required. On the plus side, a lot of CS students get a Math minor, which requires only one or two additional math courses.

[Anonymous]

Does your kid want to simply program, or actually understand the science?

[Anonymous]

Computer science is problem solving. Honing problem solving skills makes for a better computer scientist.

[Anonymous]

Does your DC like math? I think that is the bigger question.

[Anonymous]

The programming done at camps offered for kids, and even in high school up to AP computer science, does not require significant math because they know the kids haven’t had access to it yet.