[Discuss] OT: Do CS grads need calculus?

[Bill Ricker]

On Tue, Apr 7, 2015 at 1:09 PM, Shirley Márquez Dúlcey <mark at buttery.org>
wrote:

> A real computer SCIENCE program - one that includes subjects like
> theory of computing - certainly needs calculus. The theory of
> computing is quite mathematical and calculus comes into play. A
> calculus requirement makes sense.
>

​Which prepares you to enter a CS PhD program, not to *do* programing.​


A program that is focused on coding and software architecture, as the
> majority of university programs that call themselves CS programs are
> now, is another story.
>

​Which is perfectly reasonable at the BS level, even if they have Theory
MS/PhD program too. (The Intro theory required to apply to theoretical
MS/PhD program can be Elective.)

But i'd agree the degree should say "applied" if it isn't Theory.



> The vast majority of programmers will never use
> calculus in their work. The exceptions are those who implement
> mathematical algorithms; they can include programmers in science,
> engineering, pharmaceuticals, and big data analysis. A program of this
> type doesn't need to require calculus, though they might want to
> encourage their students to take it so the more mathematical branches
> will be available to them as career paths.
>

​Agree.
​



-- 
Bill Ricker
bill.n1vux at gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/n1vux