General Program Information
Offered jointly by the Mathematics and Computer Science departments, the new B. Sc. degree in Mathematics of Data and Computing (MDC) focuses on theoretical and applied aspects of computation and data analysis from the complementary perspectives of mathematics and computer science. Students in the MDC program will learn about applied aspects of computation and data analysis from a solid theoretical foundation combining mathematics and computer science courses. By choosing appropriate elective courses, the program allows enough flexibility for students to specialize in areas including data science, optimization, cryptography, discrete structures, and the theory of computability.
Academic Profile of Students Pursuing the Program
Students pursuing the MDC program typically have a strong interest in mathematics as well as a solid background in high-school mathematics. No prior exposure to basic concepts of computer science nor experience programming is required; however, students must be interested in the interplay between mathematics on the one hand, and the theory and practice of computing on the other.
Unique Features of the Program
Among UTSA undergraduate offerings, the MDC program offers a unique balance between theoretical and applied aspects of mathematics and of modern computing. Thoughtfully chosen required courses on the Mathematics and Computer Science departments model the interdisciplinary nature of the program and provide students with equally solid foundations on theory and practice as they progress to upper-level courses. By following recommended electives for advanced coursework, graduates of the program can choose to focus on either the theoretical or the applied aspects of their area of concentration (data science, cryptography, or computability and logic).
Opportunities for Graduates from this Program
The unique dual profile of graduates of the MDC program affords them excellent professional opportunities, both in the public sector and in industry. Graduates of the program are highly competitive candidates to jobs including:
- Data mining (advertising companies, tech giants and financial companies).
- Data exploration/interpretation specialist (private sector: drug companies, medical research, robotics and automation, gene sequencing; public sector: U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Census Bureau, National Weather Service, EPA, FEMA, FDA, etc.)
- Application engineer/programmer (any company or agency that requires specialized or customized software).
- Applied research mathematician/cryptanalyst (NSA).
- National laboratories https://www.energy.gov/national-laboratories also see: https://www.ams.org/journals/notices/201904/rnoti-p513.pdf
The MDS program also serves as a solid foundation for the pursuit of graduate studies in mathematics, computer science, data science, and a wide array of STEM disciplines. .
For more information and how to apply visit: https://future.utsa.edu/study/mathematics-of-data-and-computing/