Does Computer Science Require Math?

Key takeaways

Computer science degree programs have varying math requirements and may include courses such as calculus, algebra, and statistics.

• Discrete math courses in computer science programs may help build essential problem-solving skills. 

• Computer science jobs require varying levels of math, with machine learning jobs often requiring higher-level math skills than web development or programming jobs.

• You can find extra help for math courses in your computer science degree program by joining peer study groups, signing up for tutoring, and attending office hours.

Learn more about the math courses you can expect to take as a computer science major and whether you should study computer science if math isn’t your strong suit.

Does computer science require math?

At its core, math verifies whether certain logical statements are true. As a computer science learner, you will build on that foundation with a series of math classes to sharpen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills while learning to work with related math, such as data sets.

What math does computer science require?

Each computer science degree program has different mathematics requirements. Programs may require you to take some of the following branches of math and expect you to advance your knowledge of certain mathematical concepts over several semesters. For example, you may need to take Calculus I, followed by Calculus II and Calculus III. 

Generally, majoring in computer science requires most of the following: 

Calculus

Calculus refers to the study of change within a system, especially concerning functions and sequences. Calculus sets up a framework to model these changes and predict various outcomes, and is an excellent tool for solving problems.  

Linear algebra

Linear algebra is the study of vectors (a list of numbers or functions) and matrices (or a matrix of numbers). It's particularly helpful when organizing large data sets into more concise expressions and modeling the physical world. 

Boolean algebra

Boolean algebra is a branch of algebra wherein the values of the variables are either true or false. You denote these values as 1 and 0. In contrast, the values of variables in elementary algebra are numbers.

Statistics and probability

Statistics is the study of verifiable data, including collecting, analyzing, and interpreting it. Probability is the language used to discuss uncertainty, which plays a big role in statistics because the meaning behind data, or its outcome, is often unclear at first.  

Discrete math

While many other branches of mathematics, such as algebra, are considered continuous because they involve formulas that solve for endless possibilities, discrete mathematics is more interested in integers with clear, set values. It’s an excellent math for problem-solving. Some consider discrete mathematics the “mathematical language” of computer science.

Differential equations

Similar to probability, differential equations are the language through which uncertainty is understood. They can help clarify how things change, model natural phenomena, and show how they work. 

Because each computer science degree program can be so different, reviewing the course requirements for the schools you’re interested in attending, or the major you’re considering declaring, is a good idea. 

Should you study computer science if you’re bad at math?

Math can be a daunting subject for many students. But when deciding, consider the difference between thinking you’re bad at math and not enjoying math. If you do not like math, then computer science may not be the best major for you. If you find math challenging yet still enjoy it, you might still consider majoring in computer science.  

If you’ve struggled with math to some extent, it’s worth speaking with a college advisor about your requirements as a computer science major. You can also take additional pathways to improve your abilities, such as: 

• Peer study groups: Form or join a study group with your classmates to meet regularly to review weekly lessons and study for tests. 

• Office hours: Get more personalized time with your faculty members by attending their office hours. These sessions can be an excellent way to ask questions and clarify lessons you don’t fully understand. 

• Peer tutoring: Given the challenging concepts certain math classes may entail, math departments may offer peer tutoring included in tuition. 

• Tutoring: Hire a private tutor in-person or online to help you work through more challenging concepts. 

• Independent learning: Supplement your classroom learning by turning to materials like YouTube lectures, explanatory articles, or even projects that put what you’re learning into practice.  

If you’re unsure about the math requirements involved in a computer science program, you can also consider a different but related option, such as information technology (IT), informatics, or game design, which may still require math but not to the same extent.  

Does coding require math?

Coding often requires an understanding of basic math skills, but your programs will perform many calculations automatically. It’s typically more important to develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills so you can think of creative solutions to technical problems and find ways to implement them. 

That being said, being told you’re bad at math is not the same as actually being bad at math. Sometimes, it can take more time to learn complex concepts. Enroll in Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects on Coursera to review key learning techniques that can help you better approach more challenging math courses. 

It’s worth noting that not all computer science jobs require math to the same extent. For instance, a website developer or programmer will need to know a programming language. In contrast, someone who works in machine learning will have difficulty advancing without a higher-level understanding of math. Before enrolling in a computer science degree program, you may want to think about your career aspirations and what major will help you achieve them. 

Read more: 7 Careers in Computer Science Fields

Stay up-to-date with free computer science resources

Visit our Career Resource Hub, where you can take a quiz or assess your skills. Then, explore the following resources as you consider computer science for your academic and career path:

• Watch on YouTube: What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree? 

• Consider your options: Web Development Career Paths: Explore Roles & Specializations

• Read our Career Chat issue: What Should You Earn: A Certificate or a Degree? 

Earn your degree on a schedule that works for you by exploring degree programs available from esteemed college and university partners on Coursera.