Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science provides instruction in mathematics, statistics and computer science. Bachelor degrees are available in computer science, mathematics, and electrical engineering.
Program in Mathematics
"Mathematics is the language in which God has written the universe." - attributed to Galileo Galilei.
Mathematics, included in the original artes liberales, is valuable for a multitude of reasons - its beauty, which attracted many of humanity's finest minds; its many applications in the sciences; the powers of careful reasoning, which go hand-in-hand with mastering it; its undeniable centrality to modern finance, technology, data analysis and other engines of innovation. A major in mathematics brings this value to the student, from the practical employment value of the mathematical and problem-solving skills developed in the study of mathematics to the decidedly un-practical aesthetic of pure mathematics which has dazzled its practitioners for millennia.
The purposes of the mathematics curriculum at Huntington University are (a) to develop in students the art and skill of careful, clear and creative mathematical thinking and problem-solving; (b) to provide students with a strong foundation in mathematical skills with applications in engineering, computer science, finance and the natural and social sciences; and (c) to provide students with an understanding of the major fields of mathematics and their interrelationships. Completing a major in mathematics prepares the student for further study of mathematics, including graduate study, for a career (together with the program in education) as a secondary or middle school mathematics educator, and for careers in both public and private sectors which make use of the mathematical sciences.
Students may complete a bachelor of science degree in mathematical modeling, mathematics, or mathematics education.
Student who select the bachelor of science degree in mathematical modeling complete MA 171, 172, 273, 311, 371, 461, 471; CS 111; CH 161/L; PH211/L, 212/L; and one course from BA 421, CH 361/L, CS 325, EB 346, MA 150, or MA 450 for a total of 42-43 hours.
Students who select the bachelor of science degree in mathematics complete MA 165, 171, 172, 205, 273, 311, 371, 411, 431, 461, 471; CS 111 (or CS 216); four hours from MA 210, 321, 351, 450, or CS 325; and four hours from CH 161/L, BI 161/L, or PH 211/L for a total of 46 hours.
Students who select the bachelor of science degree in mathematics education complete MA 165, 171, 172, 205, 210, 273, 311, 321, 351, 411, 471, 480; CS 111 (or CS 216); and one course from MA 371, 431, 450, or 461 for a total of 44 hours. Refer to the Department of Education for education courses required for teacher licensing.
The minor in mathematics requires MA 171, 172; one course from MA 165 or 205; and seven additional hours chosen from MA courses numbered 115 and above or CS 216 (at least three hours must be in a course numbered above 300), for a total of 18 hours.
Students preparing for mathematics teacher licensing are encouraged to complete a minor in one of the sciences that will broaden their preparation. See, for example, descriptions of minors in biology and chemistry.
Students who take mathematics or computer science courses must demonstrate satisfactory mathematics placement scores prior to enrolling in their intended mathematics or computer science courses (see Mathematics Placement Policy in Catalog under Admissions Policies and Procedures). In order to satisfy a prerequisite requirement for a mathematics course, a student must earn a grade of C- or better in the prerequisite course.
Electrical Engineering Partnership with the University of North Dakota
Huntington University (HU) has partnered with the University of North Dakota (UND) to establish a dual-degree program in electrical engineering. Through this partnership, Huntington University students will take on-campus courses to earn a bachelor of science degree in mathematical modeling or a bachelor of science degree in mathematics while simultaneously taking engineering courses online to earn a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from UND. Students earn two distinct bachelor’s degrees. The program allows students to attend Huntington University and complete a premier engineering degree. UND has offered an ABET-accredited distance-based electrical engineering program for over 30 years, with the program enrolling approximately one-third of its students online.
As a dual degree program, students must successfully submit completed applications to both Huntington University and the University of North Dakota. Note: Admission to one institution does not guarantee acceptance to the other. Applications to UND are submitted during the fall semester of the freshman year at HU. The application steps for UND may be found here.
While engineering courses are offered online, students meet in person to watch course lectures and complete lab assignments. Students work closely with our local Engineering Advisor and our Mathematics faculty. Each student purchases their own electronics kits and has access to the HU electronics lab. Students have access to all required software as well as to the UND library.
Students who select the bachelor of science degree in mathematical modeling and electrical engineering complete the following courses at Huntington University: MA 171, 172, 273, 311, 371, 471; CH 161/L; and the following courses through the University of North Dakota: EE 101, 201/L, 206/L, 304, 313/L, 314/L, 316, 321/L, 401/L, 405/L, 409, 421/L, 452/L, 480, 481; ENGR 460; PHYS 251/L and 252/L; 12 elective hours in electrical engineering; and six hours of UND approved non-electrical engineering electives chosen from courses in the computer science, engineering, mathematics, or physics department (taken at UND or HU and normally 300-level or higher courses) for a total of 107 hours.
Students who select the bachelor of science degree in mathematics and electrical engineering complete the following courses at Huntington University: MA 165, 171, 172, 205, 273, 311, 371, 411, 431, 471; one hour from MA 210, 321, 351, or CS 325; CH 161/L; and the following courses through the University of North Dakota: EE 101, 201/L, 206/L, 304, 313/L, 314/L, 316, 321/L, 401/L, 405/L, 409, 421/L, 452/L, 480, 481; ENGR 460; PHYS 251/L and 252/L; and 12 elective hours in electrical engineering for a total of 116 hours.
(See the Official University of North Dakota Catalog for further information on electrical engineering courses.)
Program in Computer Science
Students who choose a bachelor of science degree in computer science complete CS 111, 216, 275, 315, 325, 355, 362, 386, 415, 425, 435 and 436; and MA 150 (or 171) and 165 for a total of 42 hours. Students are encouraged to minor in cyber security, mathematics, business, graphic design, or another application area.
The minor in computer science requires CS 111, 216, and twelve hours from any CS course, MA 150 or 165, for a total of 18 hours.
Program in Game Development
Students interested in adding a game development major may refer to the description in the Department of Digital Media Arts.
Cybersecurity Minor
The minor in cybersecurity provides a focus on cybersecurity for students interested in career opportunities related to information technology security. The minor complements existing majors in computer science and criminal justice. The cybersecurity minor requires CJ 345; CS 111, 216, 272, 396 (3 hours), 425; and three hours from CS 275, 355, 415, and 490 for a total of 21 hours.
Forensic Accounting Minor
Students interested in adding a forensic accounting minor may refer to the description in the Department of Business.
Data Analytics Certificate
The certificate in data analytics empowers students from all majors to examine and analyze data and uncover trends, equipping them with valuable skills to inform decision-making across many industries. Students gain hands-on experience in data manipulation, visualization, and analysis through computer science, mathematics, and statistics courses, preparing them for further study or entry-level data analyst positions. The certificate in data analytics by completing CS 111, CS 415, MA 150, and MA 151 for a total of 13 hours.
Courses in Computer Science
An introduction to fundamental computer concepts and terminology applicable for communication in today's world. Topics include historical perspective, computer architecture, operating systems, networking, impact of computing on society and current application areas, including spreadsheets, web page development and use of a programming language. Programming topics include input/output, loops, decision structures, arrays and method. Attention is given to good programming style and problem solving techniques for program design, coding, documentation, debugging and testing.
Prerequisite: MA 100A or MA 115 or placement
Advanced programming topics, including object oriented programming, graphical user interfaces, recursion, fundamental data structures, sorting and searching algorithms, sequential and random access file processing and external procedures.
Prerequisite: CS 111
Introduction to identifying, detecting and preventing computer security threats. Course covers malicious software, encryption, disaster recovery and backup systems, risk analysis and management, legal and ethical issues.
Prerequisite: CS 111
An introduction to the use of scripting languages for creative interactive Web applications. Topics include client and server scripting, database interaction, and Web server management.
Prerequisite: CS 111
An introduction to computer architecture and concepts, including programming techniques using an assembler instruction set.
Prerequisite: CS 216
Analysis of algorithms, advanced sorting and searching techniques, vectors, arrays, records, stacks, queues, deques, linked lists, trees and graphs are studied in this course.
Prerequisite: CS 216
Selected issues of current interest such as artificial intelligence, Web site management, robotics and graphics.
Prerequisite: CS 216
Role and concepts of operating systems, including file systems, scheduling algorithms, process management, resource management, concurrent processing and principles of operating system design. Cloud computing topics include PaaS, SaaS, IaaS, security and ethical issues.
Prerequisite: CS 216
An overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a focus on Machine Learning. Topics include knowledge representation, automated reasoning, natural language processing, image recognition, neural networks, evolutionary algorithms, ethical issues, and machine learning. Students will design and develop a machine learning application utilizing AI and Machine Learning algorithms.
Prerequisite: CS 111 (216 recommended)
Event-driven programming using a visual programming language and interface. Topics include screen design and layout, common controls, graphics, design patterns, mobile development, and database integration.
Prerequisite: CS 216
Practicum in some aspect of computer science designed to give student practical, directed experience.
Prerequisite: Consent
The student will participate in a supervised learning experience in a professional setting related to cybersecurity such as a local business, non-profit or government organization. A minimum of 120 contact hours must be completed, along with a written report of the experience. Students must fill out an application at least one semester in advance in the Friesen Center for Service and Experiential Learning, in coordination with the faculty advisor, and obtain the appropriate background checks.
Prerequisite: CS 272
Defining of data needs, relating those needs to user-oriented data languages and management of data within organizations. Establishing relevance of data structure and file organization techniques. Examining database management functions and systems, logical and physical data models and the management of data as a resource.
Prerequisite: CS 111 (216 recommended)
Introduction to Local Area Networks and Wide Area Network concepts focusing on the TCP/IP protocol. Introduction to the OSI model, IP routing, switching and addressing standards. Overview of such topics as 802.11 wireless, VLANs and network security.
Prerequisite: CS 111
An intensive team project involving analysis, design and implementation of a computer-based information system. Focus on the analysis and design system development phases including Agile development techniques.
Prerequisite: To be taken during the senior or last full year of coursework
A continuation and completion of the senior project. Focus on the implementation and support phases. The project will terminate with the presentation of results.
Prerequisite: CS 435
Supervised study of selected topics in computer science at an advanced level.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in computer science which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent
Courses in Mathematics
This course utilizes the ALEKS online platform to provide the mathematical skills required for MA 111, 112; CS 111. These skills include gaining fluency with numeric representations, completing number operations, and interpreting data visualizations. Students meet with the instructor for two hours weekly for group instruction, mini-lectures, and individual help sessions. Students will achieve their math placement after passing the course.
This course utilizes the ALEKS online platform to provide the mathematical skills required for MA 150, 151, 165. These skills include gaining fluency with numeric representations, understanding linear equations, and calculating descriptive statistics. Students meet with the instructor for two hours weekly for group instruction, mini-lectures, and individual help sessions. Students will achieve their math placement after passing the course.
This course utilizes the ALEKS online platform to provide the mathematical skills required for CH 141, 161; PH 211, 212. These skills include using ratios and proportions, solving algebraic equations, and using functional thinking. Students meet with the instructor for two hours weekly for group instruction, mini-lectures, and individual help sessions. Students will achieve their math placement after passing the course.
This course utilizes the ALEKS online platform to provide the mathematical skills required for MA 171. These skills include using rational functions, transforming graphs, and understanding trigonometric functions. Students meet with the instructor for two hours weekly for group instruction, mini-lectures, and individual help sessions. Students will achieve their math placement after passing the course.
In this course, students will develop concepts and topics in elementary and middle school math. Students will study numeration systems, working with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, integers, percents, and proportions. Students will also explore number theory, estimation and beginning algebra concepts. Effective mathematical pedagogy for children will be modeled, emphasizing the development of patterns and relationships, various instructional techniques, and the view of mathematics as problem solving, communicating, reasoning, and making connections.
Prerequisites: Elementary, middle grades, or mathematics education major; and MA 100A or MA 115 or placement
In this course, students will develop concepts and topics in elementary and middle school math. Students will study characteristics of two and three-dimensional shapes, the development of spatial sense, geometry, standard and metric measurement, transformational and coordinate approaches to geometry, data analysis, and probability. Effective mathematical pedagogy for children will be modeled, emphasizing the development of patterns and relationships, the use of various instructional techniques, and the view of mathematics as problem solving, communicating, reasoning, and making connections.
Prerequisites: Elementary, middle grades, or mathematics education major; and MA 100A or MA 115 or placement
This course is a survey of mathematics and its applications in contemporary society. Topics will vary and are selected from among the following or from other subjects chosen by the instructor: graph theory, descriptive statistics, voting theory and social choice, information coding, symmetry and patterns, game theory, and financial mathematics.
This course is an introduction to data analytics using real-world contexts. Students will be introduced to data management, data visualization, and regression analysis through case studies, simulations, and various software. The instructor will present concepts within contexts such as digital marketing or customer research.
Prerequisite: MA 100B or MA 115 or placement
This course provides an introduction to elementary probability and statistics. Students will study descriptive statistics, including measures of central tendency and variability, and use graphs to represent data. Students will explore normal distributions and their applications; probability, including laws of probability and an intuitive introduction to random variables; and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing (z-tests for means and proportions, t-tests, and the chi-square test). Students will also examine experiment and study design, including sources of bias and techniques for minimizing them. Students will learn to recognize the use and misuse of statistics in society and will investigate ways to guard against common statistical mistakes.
Prerequisite: MA 100B or MA 115 or placement
This course is designed to prepare students for calculus. Students will cover the topics of complex numbers and expressions and then polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and trigonometric functions. Once students successfully complete the course, they will be able to analyze the topics verbally, numerically, graphically, and algebraically. Students will be able to distinguish which functions can model applications and apply them appropriately.
This is a concurrent course offered at local area high schools.
Prerequisite: Consent
This course is a survey of elementary discrete mathematics and its applications. Students will study topics in the following areas: sets, logic, combinatorics, graph theory, elementary number theory, and recursion. Applications of these topics, especially to computer science, will also be included.
Prerequisite: MA 100B or MA 115 or placement
This course is the first course of a three-semester calculus sequence. The core of the course is an introduction to differential calculus, including limits, continuity, the derivative, and applications of differentiation. Students will also be introduced to antiderivatives and essential concepts integration, including the fundamental theorem of calculus.
Prerequisite: MA 100D or placement
This course is the second course of a three-semester calculus sequence. Students will study applications of integration; techniques of integration, including integration by parts and trigonometric substitution; and improper integrals. Students will examine infinite sequences and series, including Taylor series of common functions. Additional topics include further applications of integration, an introduction to differential equations, parametric equations and polar coordinates, and vectors and vector operations.
Prerequisite: MA 171
This course is an introduction to mathematical proofs and foundational concepts of mathematics. Students will study first-order predicate logic; elementary set theory; types of proofs and proof strategies; methods of formulating and writing proofs; mathematical induction; and applications of proof techniques to problems involving numbers, sets, functions, and relations.
Prerequisite: MA 165 or 171
This course is a survey of the history of mathematics around the world from ancient times up to the present. Students will focus on the development of important mathematical ideas and the key figures in that development. Willingness to engage with mathematics will be needed, but no particular mathematical knowledge is required.
This course is the third course of a three-semester calculus sequence. Students will begin the course by reviewing vectors and vector operations. Students will study plane and space curves and the calculus of vector-valued functions as well as differential calculus of functions of several variables, including limits, continuity, partial derivatives, applications of partial derivatives, and techniques such as Lagrange multipliers. Students will study multiple integration, including integration in rectangular, polar, cylindrical, and spherical coordinates and applications of multiple integrals. Students will also be introduced to vector calculus, including line integrals and Green's theorem. If time permits, students will investigate surface integrals and Gauss's divergence theorem.
Prerequisite: MA 172
Students will complete a practicum in some aspect of mathematics designed to give practical, directed experience.
Prerequisite: Consent
This course is an introduction to linear algebra. Students will examine linear transformations, matrix algebra, systems of linear equations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, abstract vector spaces and applications of linear algebra.
Prerequisite: MA 172 or 205
This course is a survey of elementary number theory and its applications. Students will study primality and divisors, modular arithmetic and the Chinese remainder theorem, continued fractions and Diophantine equations, Fermat's Little Theorem, Euler's phi function, Hensel's lemma, quadratic reciprocity and other essential concepts of number theory. Students will also discuss applications to computer science, including primality testing algorithms and encryption.
Prerequisite: MA 205
This course is a survey of important concepts and topics in geometry. Students will examine geometry as an axiomatic system, advanced theorems in Euclidean geometry, and the essentials of non-Euclidean geometry and other geometries such as projective geometry. Emphasis is placed on proofs and careful reasoning from axioms.
Prerequisite: MA 165 or 171
This course is an introduction to ordinary differential equations, their solution methods, and their applications. Students will learn solution methods for first-order differential equations, second order linear differential equations, and systems of first-order differential equations. In addition, students will study numerical and power-series solutions, Laplace transforms and their inverse, as well as continuous models and applications.
Prerequisite: MA 172
This course is an introduction to the theory of groups, rings, and fields. Students will study group theory, including permutations, subgroups and Lagrange's theorem, and group homomorphisms and the isomorphism theorems. Students will continue by studying ring theory, including ideals and the ring isomorphism theorems, integral domains, and fields. Students will also explore polynomial rings and the factorization of polynomials as well as applications of abstract algebra to number theory. Time permitting, more advanced topics such as the Sylow theorems or unique factorizations may also be covered.
Prerequisite: MA 205
This course is an introduction to real analysis. Students will learn about real topology, including completeness, compactness, and connectedness. Students will also study convergence of sequences and series, limits of functions, continuity, derivatives and differentiability of functions, and sequences and series of functions.
Prerequisites: MA 172 and 205 (MA 273 recommended)
Students will examine a selected topic in the area of mathematics. Potential topics include topology, graph theory, combinatorics, partial differential equations, theory of computation, mathematical logic, and others.
Prerequisite: MA 205
This course provides an introduction to the modeling of real-world phenomena using mathematics. Students will explore both discrete and continuous models, with subject matter drawn from the natural sciences, social sciences, and finance, depending on the interest of the instructor and students. Some experience with computer programming is recommended. Students will complete an independent project on a topic of their choosing that lead to an expository paper and presentation.
Prerequisites: MA 311 and 371
This course is an introduction to probability, statistical theory, and applied statistics. Students will study basic probability, combinatorics, conditional probability, Bayes' theorem, and distributions of important discrete and continuous random variables. This includes variables' density functions, probability generating functions, and moment generating functions, as well as joint, marginal, and conditional distributions and densities. Students will study how the expected value, variance, and covariance functions of these theoretical distributions lead to mathematical statistics as they study descriptive statistics and distributions of sample statistics. Finally, students will apply statistical techniques to problems in hypothesis testing, parameter estimation, and regression.
Prerequisites: MA 165 and 273
This course is a capstone seminar course for mathematics education majors. Students will make connections between their university mathematics courses and the mathematics they are to teach, while also reviewing pedagogical strategies. Throughout the course, students will consider various aspects of mathematics and its place in the world, including mathematical history, philosophy of mathematics, and the intersection of mathematics and the Christian faith.
Prerequisite: MA 411
This course is a supervised study of selected topics in the mathematical sciences at an advanced level.
Prerequisite: Consent
A field experience in mathematics which provides an opportunity for the student to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Student maintains close cooperation with the supervisory personnel in the field.
Prerequisite: Consent