MATH
Math is a fundamental tool in Computer Science, so the amount of Math classes required for the major should not surprise you. Fortunately, almost all Math classes are taught at
Valencia College, besides, they are offered in-person, online, and mixed mode. Successful completion of these classes will count for credit for any other major universities in Florida. CS majors MUST complete the following Math classes:
In order (from lower-level to higher-level classes):
(MAC-1105) College Algebra. Most college students start their Math journey with this class. Successful completion of this class will allow you to take the following two classes:
(MAC-1114) College Trigonometry AND (MAC-1140) Precalculus Algebra. These two classes can be taken on the same semester, but they can also be taken on separate semesters. I always
recommend to take those two classes on the same semester so Calculus I can be taken right after. If you decide to take both classes on the same semester, try to avoid taking too many classes from
other areas (three classes total for this semester is completely fine). Successful completion of both classes will allow you to take the following class:
(MAC-2311) Calculus I. This is where Math starts going crazy, there will be a lot of new concepts that might be hard to understand at first glance, so make sure to take some time to study and practice.
I highly recommend to take this class in-person because you'll have more chances to ask questions to the professor, as well as meeting other people to set up study groups. Successful completion of this
class will allow you to take the following class:
(MAC-2312) Calculus II. This class introduces more interesting concepts, so make sure to improve you study habits from Calculus I (take more time to study and practice). I also recommend to take this in-person.
More importantly, this class is the last Calculus requirement if you plan to transfer to UCF for a Computer Science (B.S.). Successful completion of this class will allow you to take the following class:
(MAC-2313) Calculus III. This class introduces a new unique concept, so make sure to improve even more your study habits from Calc I and II. Once again, try to take this in-person. This class is the last Calculus requirement
if you plan to transfer to UF for a Computer Science (B.S.). On the other hand, this class is NOT required for CS at UCF, but it can be used to satisfy a higher-level math elective.
OPTIONAL Math class:
(MAP-2302) Differential Equations. This class can be taken after completing Calculus III. It is NOT required at UCF nor UF, but it can be used as a higher-level math elective at both universities.