Santa Clara University

“A Mathematician is a machine for turning coffee into theorems.”

Erdos, Paul

$undefined$

z = cos(tx)sin(ty)

Theorem of the Day

One-page poster of an interesting theorem; updated daily.

Languages of the Month

Most popular programming languages; updated monthly.

Problem of the Fortnight

Check out the problems posted on the board to the left of the Sussman Room door. See if you can solve a fun problem your fellow students can't.

SCU » College of Arts & Sciences » Mathematics & Computer Science Department

$Mathematics and Computer Science department$

New Math and CS Alumni

Welcome!

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at Santa Clara University is home to about 27 full and part-time faculty members and about 130 departmental majors and minors. In addition, all Santa Clara undergraduate students take at least one course in mathematics from our department.

Mission Statement

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science promotes the methods and benefits of rigorous, objective mathematical thought, theoretical computer science and algorithmic and logical understanding, both for their intrinsic beauty and for their applications to other disciplines. These principles are incorporated into the larger university program of educating the whole person in the Jesuit tradition. Our aims are focused not only on our students, but also on our professional communities and the community at large.

The Wonders of the World of Mathematics and Computers

Take a moment to watch an award-winning computer-generated video about a geometrical transformation, Möbius Transformations Revealed, at http://www.ima.umn.edu/videos/mobius.php and get a taste of what is studied in advanced mathematics and computer courses.

FALL 2009 NEWS & EVENTS

General Meeting

For declared and prospective majors and minors in Mathematics or Computer Science. Wednesday, September 30, at 4:30 pm. On the steps of O'Connor Hall, outside O'C 106 and O'C 107.
Math/CS Society Picnic

Wednesday, September 30, right after general meeting, on the lawn between O'Connor Hall and Mayer Theatre. More details will be announced later.
Fall Departmental Colloquium Series

Tuesday afternoons, 4-5pm. Speakers from on-campus and off-campus give presentations on various topics related to mathematics and computer science. Speakers are advised in advance that undergraduate students may be present, so at least part of the talk should be accessible to students.
Bay Area Mathematical Adventures (BAMA) Talks

Santa Clara University, along with San Jose State University, hosts several talks each year by outstanding mathematicians. The talks are geared toward high school students interested in mathematics. More information can be found here.
Problem Solving Seminars

Organizational meeting on Wednesday, September 23, 3:30 pm, in the Sussman Room (OC 31). Contact Professor Walden for details.
Putnam Mathematics Competition

Saturday, December 5. Join other SCU students participating in one of the most prestigious university mathematics competitions given. Contact Professor Walden for details.
Noyce Scholarships

Financial assistance available for current SCU students interested in teaching high school mathematics. Detailed information (including instructions for applying) is available here.
Free Tutoring
- Sussman Room (check schedule on the blackboard opposite the door to O'Connor 31). Sponsored by Pi Mu Epsilon.
- Basement of Benson, 7-9pm Sunday through Thursday. Sponsored by the Drahmann Center.
Graders needed for MATH/CS courses

See the list in the Sussman Room. Students who have taken a course and received an A or B may apply. Contact the instructor directly.
News Archive

Old news and events here.

Contact Information

Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
Santa Clara University
500 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, CA 95053-0290
Tel: 1-408-554-4525

Departmental Office:
O'Connor Hall, Room 1
(Lower Level)
PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS:
Feel free to contact Fr. Dennis Smolarski, SJ, Department Chair (1-408-554-4174), to speak with a faculty member when visiting campus or if you have questions about studying at Santa Clara.
APRIL PREVIEW DAY PRESENTATION:
The presentation (PDF file) given on April 18 and 19, 2009 can be found at this link.

Colloquium Series

Join us at the weekly colloquia on Tuesday afternoons.

Pi Mu Epsilon

Tutoring in mathematics is available to all students courtesy of student members of the Pi Mu Epsilon Honor Society. Check the schedule in the Sussman Room, O'Connor 31.

Math/CS Society

Stay tuned for further information about quarterly activities!

Graduate Study

Five-year BS/MS program in CS: The Department collaborates with the Department of Computer Engineering to provide students the opportunity to complete a BS in computer science and an MS in computer engineering or software engineering in only five years.
Those interested in pursuing graduate study (i.e., a master's or doctor's degree) in computer engineering, software engineering, or applied mathematics are referred to programs offered by the Department of Computer Engineering or the Department of Applied Mathematics, both in the University's School of Engineering.