The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science provides the essential breadth of knowledge for a firm foundation to explore either Mathematics or Computer Science, or a combination of both fields or a major with concentration in another discipline such as Economics, Finance, or Education.

Our programs provide excellent opportunities to delve deeply into a specific area of interest through directed studies, research experience, and presentations in departmental seminars and sectional meetings of national organizations. Having established a strong foundation in math or computer science, students will have additional opportunities to sharpen their skills, deepen their knowledge and earn money through participation in the Math/CS Support Center and the Web Resource Center.

Mathematics

The student of Mathematics begins by developing a solid foundation in pure mathematics. The mathematics program offers major tracks with concentrations in applied fields, such as Finance and Economics. All majors are required to take at least one applied mathematics courses. Some faculty members have developed grant support, allowing qualified students to participate in their research programs.

Unique offerings

There are a number of unique opportunities for Mathematics students:

• Students are encouraged to participate in problem-solving activities leading to participation in the prestigious Putnam Exam
• Students are offered the opportunity to participate in the Suffolk University Math Society (SUMS)
• Various summer research experiences programs (REU) are available for undergraduates
• Well-qualified upper-level students with strong mathematics and communication skills can receive special training and supervision while teaching sections of the MATHSHOP course
  

Preparing for a career

To foster a close working relationship with the faculty, upper level mathematic courses have small enrollments. A major in Mathematics, even with the addition of a minor in another discipline, contains a substantial block of elective courses. These electives allow the student to investigate subjects of interest or to construct a pre-professional program best suited to his or her needs. Most of our majors broaden their options by completing a minor in Computer Science. This combination provides a solid basis for beginning a career immediately upon graduation.

Computer Science

Our Computer Science undergraduate and graduate programs emphasize actual implementation of the ideas, algorithms, and theories that are covered in our courses. Our students get substantial experience with machine-level programming and quickly develop direct experience with computer architecture, networks and operating systems. This approach results in a deep understanding of computer hardware and software systems.

Computer Science students are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach to computer systems: searching for the best balance between the demands of the program and the limitations of the environment. Software development is executed by teams of students, emulating real-world situations while simultaneously allowing students to develop responsibility and leadership skills.

Because of the need for our students to obtain good field experience, all of our upper-level and graduate Computer Science classes are offered in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate students who are working during the day. We offer small classes, a convenient downtown location, friendly and devoted faculty, and excellent computing facilities.

The Suffolk University Computer Lab facilities are continually updated to reflect the same technology students will find in career positions. Equally as important, the faculty takes great pride in working with each student to develop high personal standards that lead to rewarding careers.

Job opportunities

Common to both Mathematics and Computer Science, our graduates find excellent jobs in the hi-tech Boston area. We provide an opportunity to explore a broad range of career options where mathematical and computer skills are highly valued. In a complex world, opportunities for our graduates are continually growing. Students have a broad range of options for further studies and employment in a wide field of career opportunities:

• PhD programs that lead to academic or high level research careers
• Further graduate study leading to other advanced degrees
• Teaching middle school or high school
• Combining mathematics with a concentration in economics and finance to pursue a career in the finance industry
• Preparing for actuarial exams to pursue a career in the insurance industry
• Combining mathematics with computer science and/or electrical engineering courses to pursue a career in the high-tech industry
• Combining mathematics with computer science and courses in arts and design to pursue a career in publishing, advertising, or Television or Film
• Combining mathematics with biology and statistics to pursue a career in the new field of bioinformatics