Why do computer science degrees at the 4 year level require math courses?

Question

Its preparation for graduate courses, research, etc.? It seems to me that

the focus should be more about programming, data, and architecture - things you can pick up at any community college if what you want is a job

in computers.

Answer 1

As another user has already said, math appears everywhere in computer science. Google's search engine is an eigenvalue problem from linear algebra. RSA encryption (you know, the one used EVERYWHERE) works because of certain properties of prime numbers. There are numerous other examples, but suffice to say, you need math to get the job done.

Answer 2

programming is very much about math.. you use math ALL the time! that is why. it is important also to be able to problem solve. So even if all those math skill are not being used the problem solving skills you learn from math will constantly be applied

Answer 3

You would be amazed how much math real computer programmers use on a daily basis. Whole disciplines within computer science are based entirely on advanced mathematical concepts. Encryption and compression are probably the most obvious examples.

I have linked to just a few examples of cases where advanced math is needed for computer science. I assure you, this is just scratching the surface.