Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

Interim Dean: Dr. Jennifer Staiger

Professor: Frederick Portier

Associate Professors: Melanie B. Butler (Chair), Brian E. Heinold, Jonelle Hook, Luca Petrelli

Assistant Professors: Rebecca Portier, Scott Weiss

The courses and programs offered by the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science are designed to give students an exposure to a wide variety of topics in computer science, cybersecurity, data science, and mathematics. Participation in the program will provide students with firm foundations in theory and application and will give them an appreciation of both the utility and the intellectual attractiveness of the disciplines. Students will acquire the ability to rationally analyze problems of a quantitative nature and apply appropriate methods of solution. Ultimately, the programs seek to develop, in the students, the ability to reason logically, to express ideas with precision, and to apply appropriate problem-solving techniques.

The mathematics curriculum fills the needs of those students who wish to pursue a professional career in mathematics in academia or industry. As an integral part of a liberal arts education, the department seeks to give students a feeling for the spirit and enjoyable nature of mathematics as well as the applications of mathematics in their areas of study.

The computer science curriculum provides a broad overview of computer science as a discipline and gives the student essential technical and analytical skills. Students become proficient in several programming languages and gain experience on multiple computing platforms. Technical issues related to hardware and software are examined. The mathematical foundation is stressed early and practical experience is gained throughout. Graduates of the program will have the skills necessary to work as computer professionals or pursue graduate education.

The BS in Cybersecurity, in concert with the core curriculum, helps fulfill the undergraduate mission of the university by preparing students for challenging and meaningful careers that aid in cyber defense. In particular, the cybersecurity program will develop strong skills in quantitative reasoning, logic, problem-solving, and design along with versatile communication skills and the ability to apply an ethical lens to a broad spectrum of information technology issues. The Cybersecurity degree prepares students for entry level professional practice in cybersecurity in a variety of areas including securing networks and devices, programming, information security, software design, and network operations. The program also provides solid preparation for graduate-level study in these same areas and for certification exams. Graduates of the program will find that they are well-prepared for challenging and meaningful careers in the cybersecurity field.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Mount St. Mary’s develops mathematics majors who:

are proficient in important areas of undergraduate mathematics such as analysis, algebra, and discrete mathematics

have the ability to investigate, clarify, and solve quantitative problems

have the ability to communicate in mathematics with precision and clarity

have the ability to prove mathematical statements using logical reasoning

are prepared for success in graduate study and professional careers in business, industry, government, and teaching

Mount St. Mary’s develops computer science majors who:

are proficient in several sub-disciplines of computer science such as software development, computer architecture, algorithm analysis, and artificial intelligence have the ability to apply the tools and techniques of computer science to effectively investigate and solve quantitative problems

have the ability to communicate technical ideas from computer science with precision and clarity

are prepared for success in graduate study and professional careers in business, industry, government, and teaching

Mount St. Mary’s develops cybersecurity majors who:

demonstrate an understanding of the basic concepts of computer science, criminal justice, and cybersecurity

have the ability to apply the tools and techniques of cybersecurity to effectively investigate and solve technical problems

have the ability to communicate technical ideas from cybersecurity with precision and clarity

understand the legal context and the ethical issues that constitute the cybersecurity profession so that they are prepared for success in a career or graduate study.