by our College Data Analytics TeamMathematics and Computer Science as a major is an ideal combination of two fields. Students will use skills, tools, theories, and concepts from both fields to complete projects and solve tough problems.
Students will use complex mathematics, and concrete and abstract concepts to help design computer systems. You will also learn how to create computer programs and software. You could be involved in anything from designing computer games, to implementing systems that help handicapped and disabled people lead more productive lives.
Courses you can expect to see in your studies include: differential equations, calculus, linear algebra, number theory, real analysis, geometry, artificial intelligence, computer system organization, mathematics for computer science, and software engineering.
In 2021-2022, mathematics & computer science was the 221st most popular major nationwide with 1,261 degrees awarded. This year's Best Mathematics & Computer Science Schools ranking compares 22 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of math & compsci programs later in this article.
This is a great major for logical thinkers with strong analytical skills. Students will need to take abstract ideas and apply them to real life problems. Pay strong attention to detail in order to catch errors in computer code, troubleshoot programs and debug a program. This type of work takes dedication and concentration.
Students should work on their communication skills in order to effectively communicate with peers and professors. Learn to collaborate with others to make group projects even stronger. These teamwork skills will serve you well in a future career.
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for most math & compsci degree programs and many students will need a minimum GPA and SAT/ACT score depending on the school. In addition to these basic mathematics & computer science program qualifications, to serve in some math & compsci careers, special certification may be required outside of your degree.
Math & CompSci degree levels vary. You can get anything from a in mathematics & computer science to the highest math & compsci degree, a . How long it takes to complete some common math & compsci degree levels is shown below.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A bachelor's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to math & compsci, with approximately 52.1% of workers getting one. See the the most common levels of education for math & compsci workers below.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 51.8% |
| Master’s Degree | 19.7% |
| Doctoral Degree | 8.1% |
| Post-Doctoral Training | 5.0% |
| Associate’s Degree (or other 2-year degree) | 3.7% |
Most workers in math & compsci have at least a bachelor's degree. See the chart below for the most common degree level workers in mathematics & computer science have received.
The education level required is different depending on the math & compsci career you are seeking.
Mathematics and Computer Science will prepare you to work in a variety of fields. You can easily apply your skills to work as a computer and information researcher or as a computer programmer. Grads also find work as statisticians or financial analysts. Some of these fields may require an advanced degree.
Want a job when you graduate with your math & compsci degree? Mathematics & Computer Science careers are expected to grow 9.4% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to mathematics & computer science.
| Occupation Name | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Workers | 313,800 | 9.3% |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 62,300 | 9.9% |
Mathematics & Computer Science graduates between <nil> reported earning an average of $88,628 in the <nil> timeframe. Earnings can range from as low as $44,143 to as high as $166,573. As you might expect, salaries for math & compsci graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Salaries for mathematics & computer science graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers math & compsci grads often go into.
| Occupation Name | Median Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers | $139,680 |
| Computer Workers | $93,350 |
With over 141 different math & compsci degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased math & compsci school rankings to help you with this.
Mathematics & Computer Science is one of 51 different types of Multi / Interdisciplinary Studies programs to choose from.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Mathematics & Computer Science | 1,261 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies | 31,307 |
| Biological & Physical Science | 30,032 |
| Interdisciplinary Studies | 9,114 |
| International Studies | 6,614 |
| Nutrition Science | 5,598 |
