University of San Diego

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary undergraduate programme brings together core topics in pure and applied mathematics with the central areas of computer science. You will study foundational mathematics such as calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics and probability and statistics alongside computer science courses in programming, data structures and algorithms.

Typical modules and subjects include:

• Calculus and Multivariable Calculus — limits, derivatives, integrals and vector calculus for functions of several variables.
• Linear Algebra — vector spaces, matrices, eigenvalues and applications to computing and data.
• Discrete Mathematics — logic, sets, combinatorics and graph theory as the mathematical basis for algorithms.
• Probability and Mathematical Statistics — probability models, inference and their use in data analysis and machine learning.
• Data Structures and Algorithms — algorithm design, complexity analysis and implementation of essential data structures.
• Software Engineering and Programming — software development practices, testing, version control and team-based projects.
• Systems and Architecture — operating systems principles, computer organization and low-level programming.
• Databases and Web Technologies — data modelling, SQL/noSQL databases and web application development.
• Advanced electives — options such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, numerical analysis, cryptography, computational geometry or mathematical modelling.
• Capstone project or senior thesis — a substantial individual or team project integrating mathematical analysis and software implementation, often linked to industry or faculty research.

The programme is delivered within USD’s liberal arts framework, so you will also complete general education coursework that develops communication, ethics and interdisciplinary thinking. Hands-on laboratory work, programming labs and opportunities for undergraduate research are commonly part of the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of San Diego is based on a holistic review of an applicant’s academic record and extracurricular background. For this combined mathematics and computer science pathway, successful applicants typically present strong preparation in high-school mathematics and coursework or experience in computer science.

• Academic preparation — completion of high-school calculus (or equivalent), strong grades in mathematics and science, and coursework in computer science if available.
• Skills and experience — prior programming experience is beneficial; applicants may strengthen their candidacy with examples of coding projects, participation in competitions, or relevant coursework.
• Supporting materials — standard application materials such as transcripts, essays, and recommendations are required. Portfolios or GitHub links that demonstrate programming ability can be helpful.
• Transfer students — are considered based on college-level course work; accepted transfer credit depends on course equivalence and department review.

Exact admission criteria and any standardised testing policies are set by the university admissions office; prospective students should consult USD for the most current requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with combined strengths in mathematics and computer science have a broad range of career options across technology, finance, analytics and research. The degree equips students with quantitative reasoning, algorithmic thinking and software skills valued by employers.

• Software developer / engineer — design and build applications, systems and services for industry or start-ups.
• Data scientist / analyst — apply statistical and computational methods to extract insights from data.
• Systems analyst / DevOps engineer — work with infrastructure, performance and reliability of computing systems.
• Quantitative analyst / financial modeller — use mathematical models and programming in finance and risk management.
• Research and development or graduate study — pursue advanced degrees in computer science, mathematics, statistics or related fields for roles in academia or specialised research.
• Education and technical communication — teaching, technical writing or roles that translate complex ideas for broader audiences.

Students commonly gain practical experience through internships, industry partnerships and research projects, which supports transition into local tech and biotech employers in the San Diego region and beyond.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego combines a rigorous academic programme with small class sizes and accessible faculty, providing close mentorship in both mathematics and computer science. USD’s liberal arts environment encourages cross-disciplinary learning and emphasises ethical and communicative skills alongside technical competence.

Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities, including undergraduate research, capstone projects and internships with San Diego’s technology, biotech and defence sectors. Modern teaching laboratories, collaborative project spaces and faculty who are active in research or industry partnerships support hands-on skill development. The university’s location and alumni network help connect graduates with regional employers while study-abroad and global programmes offer additional perspectives on computing and applied mathematics.