B.A. in Biology
Whittier College, located in Whittier, California, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in ...
B.A. in Integrated Computer Science & Math
Whittier, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
Whittier College, located in Whittier, California, offers a unique Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics. This program is designed for students who seek to combine the foundational theories and applications of computer science with the rigorous analytical and problem-solving skills honed through advanced mathematics. Recognizing the synergistic relationship between these two disciplines, the curriculum aims to produce graduates who can tackle complex computational problems with a strong theoretical understanding and who are prepared for roles in highly quantitative and technical fields.
STEM-designated: Yes, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics program at Whittier College is officially STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students on an F-1 visa, as it qualifies them for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This allows for an additional 24 months of post-completion work authorization in the U.S. beyond the initial 12 months, providing a total of up to three years of invaluable practical experience in their specialized field.
Curriculum: The B.A. in Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics curriculum at Whittier College is comprehensive, demanding 20 credits in core computer science courses, including Computer Science I (COSC 120), Computer Science II (COSC 220), Data Structures and Algorithms (COSC 240), Operating Systems (COSC 310), Computer Organization and Architecture (COSC 320), and a Senior Project (COSC 499), along with one additional 300-level COSC course. On the mathematics side, students are required to complete a substantial 33 credits, encompassing Calculus & Analytical Geometry I (MATH 141), Calculus & Analytical Geometry II (MATH 142), Discrete Math (MATH 220), Calculus & Analytical Geometry III (MATH 241), Introduction to Applied Elementary Linear Algebra (MATH 242), and Abstract Thinking (MATH 280). Furthermore, students must complete four additional mathematics courses at the 300 level or above. This rigorous curriculum ensures a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and advanced calculus, forming a robust foundation for computational and quantitative analysis.
Research Focus: Whittier College strongly emphasizes undergraduate research, and students in the Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics program have ample opportunities to engage in discovery. The Department of Mathematics & Computer Science actively promotes "Discovery in Mathematics" and "Hands-On Learning in Mathematics," fostering a culture where students go beyond classroom theory to participate in active research. These opportunities can include faculty-mentored projects, often culminating in senior projects that explore areas at the intersection of computing and advanced mathematics, such as numerical analysis, mathematical modeling of complex systems, or algorithm design. Students are encouraged to present their original work at events like the annual Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (URSCA) conference, providing valuable experience in scientific communication and inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Whittier College's Center for Career and Professional Development plays a vital role in preparing Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics graduates for successful careers. The "Whittier Works" initiative provides personalized coaching, career exploration, and preparation for both job searches and graduate school admissions. Leveraging its location in Southern California, the Career Center actively cultivates partnerships with employers in the tech, finance, and data science sectors. This facilitates valuable internships and experiential learning opportunities for students, allowing them to apply their dual-discipline skills in real-world settings and build professional networks before graduation. The program's blend of theoretical and practical skills makes graduates highly attractive to employers seeking versatile problem-solvers.
Global Perspective: Whittier College is dedicated to fostering a strong global perspective among its students, and this is implicitly valuable for those in the Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics program. Both computer science and mathematics are universal languages, with global applications and an interconnected research community. The Office of International Programs, recognized for its commitment to diversity in study abroad, offers extensive opportunities across five continents. While the rigorous nature of the integrated curriculum requires careful planning, students can explore study abroad options that might offer insights into international computing practices, diverse mathematical approaches, or the global impact of technology, thereby enriching their academic journey and preparing them for collaboration in an increasingly interconnected and globalized world.
Location
Whittier, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 53019
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Whittier College offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for international students to help make a high-quality education affordable and accessible. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and other talents while supporting diversity and global engagement on campus.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students are eligible for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are awarded automatically upon admission consideration or through separate applications.
International Student Academic Scholarships: Whittier College provides dedicated academic scholarships for international applicants, which recognize outstanding academic records from students worldwide. These awards typically range from partial to substantial tuition reductions and are renewable each year based on satisfactory academic performance.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While international students do not qualify for federal financial aid, Whittier College offers some need-based assistance through institutional funds. International applicants must submit a financial aid application along with supporting documents to be considered for these awards.
Specialized and Departmental Scholarships: Certain departments and programs at Whittier may have specific scholarships for international students who demonstrate excellence or interest in particular fields, such as business, sciences, or the arts. These awards encourage students to pursue their academic passions with financial support.
Whittier College's B.A. in Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics offers a powerful blend of logical reasoning, problem-solving, and computational skills that are highly valued across a multitude of industries. This STEM-designated degree prepares graduates not just for entry-level positions, but also for roles that require deep analytical thought and the ability to develop innovative solutions, making them versatile and competitive in the modern workforce.
Software Developer/Engineer: This remains a top career path. Graduates design, code, test, and maintain software applications across various platforms, from web and mobile to complex enterprise systems. The strong foundation in discrete mathematics, algorithms, and data structures from Whittier is directly applicable.
Data Scientist: This highly in-demand role involves using statistical and mathematical models, coupled with programming skills, to analyze vast datasets, extract meaningful insights, and build predictive models. The integrated major provides the perfect blend of quantitative and computational expertise for this field.
Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Often found in finance and investment banking, Quants use advanced mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and programming to develop trading strategies, price complex financial instruments, and manage risk. This career directly leverages the integrated curriculum.
Machine Learning Engineer/AI Developer: This cutting-edge field involves designing and implementing algorithms that allow computers to learn from data. The mathematical rigor from the math component (e.g., linear algebra, calculus) combined with computer science principles is fundamental for success in AI and machine learning.
Cybersecurity Analyst/Cryptographer: With a strong understanding of algorithms, discrete mathematics, and systems, graduates can work to protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats. Cryptographers specifically focus on developing and analyzing secure communication methods using mathematical principles.
Operations Research Analyst: These professionals use mathematical modeling, optimization techniques, and computational tools to solve complex problems and improve efficiency in various organizations, including logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Actuary: Actuaries assess and manage financial risks, primarily for insurance companies and pension funds. This career demands exceptional mathematical and statistical abilities, areas where the Integrated Computer Science and Mathematics degree provides extensive training.
Computational Scientist: In academic or research settings, computational scientists develop and use computational models and simulations to solve scientific and engineering problems that are too complex for traditional analytical methods. This often involves high-performance computing and numerical analysis.
Systems Analyst: These professionals analyze an organization's computer systems and procedures, identifying ways to improve efficiency, productivity, and overall performance. The logical thinking and problem-solving skills developed in the integrated major are crucial here.
Further Education (Graduate School/Academia): The rigorous academic foundation of this integrated degree makes it an excellent springboard for pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in computer science, mathematics, statistics, data science, or related quantitative fields, leading to careers in research, academia, or highly specialized industry roles.
