What Are the Cal Poly Computer Science Math Requirements?

California Polytechnic State University, better known as Cal Poly, is a public university located in San Luis Obispo, California.

Cal Poly has a reputation as a prestigious institution and its graduates are highly sought-after with a 91% employment rate within nine months of graduation.

Students interested in technology may wonder about the math requirements for entry into the program. Cal Poly's famous computer science program requires a strong foundation in mathematics to succeed, including abilities in advanced algebra, calculus, and trigonometry.

About Cal Poly's Computer Science Math Requirements

Students wanting to pursue a degree in computer science from Cal Poly need to be aware of both the entry requirements and the classes that will be required within the program.

Due to the technical nature of a computer science degree, a strong background in math will be an advantage at each stage of the educational process.

Math Courses Required for Entry Into Cal Poly Computer Science

Cal Poly lists every high school class required for acceptance on its website. The required math classes include:

• Algebra I
• Algebra II
• Geometry

The admissions guidance also states that students who have taken two years of more advanced math classes, such as pre-calculus, statistics, calculus, and trigonometry, will have a better chance of being accepted.

The math requirements for entry into Cal Poly's computer science program suggest that students should take additional math classes in high school if possible.

Required Math Classes Within the Computer Science Major

Once students have been admitted into Cal Poly's computer science program, they must complete a range of general electives, core required courses, and electives.

Here are some of the math classes students will take in Cal Poly's computer science bachelor's degree:

• Calculus I
• Calculus II
• Linear Algebra I
• Linear Algebra II
• Statistics for Engineering
• Algorithms
• Theory of Computation

In addition to the quantitative courses, students will also take general electives to round out their education with an understanding of the humanities. Many computer science courses will also involve quite a bit of math in applied contexts.

Concentrations

Cal Poly has a strong emphasis on learning by doing and choosing a concentration will allow students to explore applications of the skills they learn.

Possible concentrations include:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Privacy and Security
• Data Engineering
• Graphics
• Game Development

Is Cal Poly's Computer Science Program Hard To Get Into?

Cal Poly's computer science program has earned a reputation as one of the finest computer science degrees in the region. The program has experienced extremely high demand, with thousands of students applying each year.

Due to the high demand and limited number of teaching staff, Cal Poly's computer science program is among the most competitive in the university.

In 2021, 6,000 students applied and 200 were admitted meaning the program has around a 3% acceptance rate. Earning a spot in Cal Poly's distinguished computer science program is a very competitive process.

What Will I Learn in Cal Poly's Computer Science Program?

Cal Poly sets out a clear list of learning objectives for each student in the computer science program. Computer science is a highly technical degree so students will need to gain a foundation in core competencies related to computing.

Cal Poly sets itself apart with an additional emphasis on the development of the whole person above and beyond technical skills.

In addition to technical competence, interpersonal skills, professional awareness, and intellectual growth make up the core learning outcomes for the computer science program.

What is the Hardest Math Class in Cal Poly's Computer Science Program?

Each student will likely have a different experience in math classes depending on their previous education and current interests and motivations.

Cal Poly's computer science program requires both Calculus I and Calculus II. Students who are up for a challenge can also take Calculus III as an elective. Some students also find Linear Analysis to be a challenging math course.

Career Options for Cal Poly Computer Science Graduates

Cal Poly computer science graduates are in very high demand due to their strong technical skills. Some common job titles for graduates include web developer, software engineer, computer programmer, database administrator, and systems analyst.

Cal Poly graduates have been hired by major corporations such as Microsoft, Google, Yahoo, Intuit, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Adobe, Salesforce, Cisco, and Boeing. Earning a computer science degree at Cal Poly positions students for long-term career success in a dynamic area of the economy.

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