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WHAT PATHS?

PATHWAYS

Math, Computers, & Data

Students that pursue a pathway in Math & Computers seek to understand computation; this includes analyzing algorithms and proving properties such as correctness and complexity, and requires an understanding of appropriate mathematical tools. Upon learning how to create original computational structures, students develop an understanding of fundamental techniques in algorithm and data structure design.

AT A GLANCE  

IS THIS YOU?

  • ​I would like to explore and create with new technology.

  • I want to understand how the universe works.

  • I like to solve problems using math or science.

  • I appreciate advanced technology and engineering.

  • I enjoy developing theories or hypothesis.

  • I like to study, conduct research, or work in a lab.

  • I like complicated problems and intellectual challenges.

  • I am innovative and creative.

Kids in Art Class
DESIGNING 
Algorithms
Living Room Sketch
MODELING & PROCESSING Data
Image by Christian Joudrey
WRITING 
COMPUTER Programs

Explore the Different Possibilities

Check out the specific concentrations within this interest cluster, with information regarding specific careers, as well as potential majors to pursue in college!

CONCENTRATION IN
Artificial Intelligence/Algorithms

Programs in Artificial Intelligence focus on how complex inputs — such as vision, language and huge databases — can be used to make decisions or enhance human capabilities. The curriculum includes coursework in computer science, math, statistics, computational modeling, machine learning and symbolic computation.

Potential Majors

CONCENTRATION IN
Computational Media

Students combine their creativity with computer science principles to carve a distinct path in which they are uniquely positioned to create and engage with digital media for entertainment, music, education and business.

Potential Majors

CONCENTRATION IN
Mathematics

Students pursuing a mathematics major will study important connections with other disciplines that may inspire interesting and useful mathematics, and where innovative mathematical reasoning may lead to new insights and applications. Our applied math group focuses on biology, combinatorics, computer science, scientific computing, numerical analysis, and areas of physical applied mathematics.

Potential Majors

CONCENTRATION IN
Web/Mobile App Development

For the student that immerses themselves in various program languages in order to develop usable applications.

Potential Majors

CONCENTRATION IN
Data Processing and Technology

For the student who seeks to use of computers to perform defined operations on data. Potential careers include: Data Entry/ Microcomputer Applications, Data Modeling/Warehousing

Potential Majors

CONCENTRATION IN
Computer Engineer

For the student that seeks a dynamic and entrepreneurial working environment in order to have a revolutionary impact on the economy and society. Potential careers include: Network Systems, Information Support and Service, Web and Digital Communications, Programming and Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Systems Analysis

Potential Majors

CONCENTRATION IN
Game + Interactive Tech Design

Students interested in exploring and expanding how people engage with computers and other immersive media technologies. Potential careers include: Video Game Design, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence

Potential Majors

Paths
dis u?

ROADMAPS

roadmaps

Connect with Alumni or a Senior Mentor

Check out how our alumni students and current seniors are pursuing this pathway! Learn about what it takes. To learn more about an alumni's journey, check out their roadmap.

Eric Shavkin
Class of 2020
Undergraduate student
Computer Science, Georgia Institute of Technology
Arjun Sridhar
Class of 2015
PHD in Machine Learning at Duke University
Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, UC Berkeley
Dominique Vaca
Class of 2017
Undergraduate student
Mathematical Sciences, UC Santa Barbara
Hayden Matheus
Class of 2015
Webmaster for CSULB Esports Association
Computer Science, CSU Long Beach
Olaolu Dada
Class of 2019
Undergraduate student
Computer Science, Georgia Institute of Technology
Eugene Mesina
Class of 2015
Boston Scientific Engineer
Computer Science, CSU Long Beach
Matthew Ruiz
Class of 2013
Content Designer for Cryptic Studios
Computer Game Science, UC Irvine
Harry Sachdeva
Class of 2018
Undergraduate student
Computer Science, UC Irvine
Thomas Chen
Class of 2015
Working on a startup with car mods
Computer Science, UCLA
Vanessa Ulloa
Class of 2008
Software engineer at Boston Scientific
Masters in Computer Science, Arizona State University
Peter Park
Class of 2018
Undergraduate student
Applied and Computational Mathematics and Education, USC
Carmelle Millar
Class of 2015
Software Engineer at Squarespace
Computer Science, Stanford University
advice
GENERAL ADVICE FOR THIS PATHWAY

Computer Science is VERY competitive. If you take any SAT Subject Tests, it’s important to take and get a high 700 on the SAT Math II Subject Test (preferably 800) to demonstrate you’re strong in Math beyond what’s covered on the SAT or ACT. Getting a perfect or high score on SAT II Physics or any other science Subject Test isn’t required, but it also will help your application.

 

Try to take as many COC CMPSCI courses as possible to see if you really want to pursue this career. These classes test your ability with lab components where you have to code programs on your own.

There are many online resources you can use to help you to learn to code by yourself. Codecademy.com is a popular option. This website teaches you basic coding languages for free.

You can start now! Learn by doing. Books, videos, and classics only teach you theory. If you have an idea, execute it.

App development is encouraged. Smartphones are the future of technology so it’s best to get a head start now. Most android apps are coded through Android Studio and IOS apps are coded with Xcode. Mobile games are often coded through Unity. Many of these programs have useful youtube tutorials online, so watch them and try them out. 

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