Enter OTP
Brown University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics through its School of Engineering and the Department of Computer Science.
This highly rigorous, interdisciplinary program is designed for students who want to develop expertise in both algorithmic problem-solving and mathematical modeling. By integrating computational methods with applied theoretical principles, graduates are uniquely equipped for roles in quantitative research, technology development, and analytical leadership across industries like finance, data science, AI, and academia.
Curriculum and Modules
Computer Science Core:
The CS component emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application. Key courses include:
Introduction to Computer Science (CS15 and CS16 or CS17 and CS18)
Data Structures and Algorithms
Software Engineering
Computer Systems and Organization
Theory of Computation
Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning
Databases, Web Applications, and Programming Languages
Students are encouraged to explore upper-level electives in areas like:
Distributed Systems
Computer Graphics
Cybersecurity
Robotics
Applied Mathematics Core:
The Applied Mathematics side equips students with advanced analytical and modeling tools. Key course areas include:
Multivariable Calculus
Linear Algebra
Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations
Probability Theory
Numerical Analysis
Optimization and Stochastic Processes
Students gain deep insight into how mathematics can be used to model complex systems in science, economics, engineering, and beyond.
Integrated Electives and Interdisciplinary Flexibility:
The program allows for elective coursework that bridges the gap between computation and real-world systems, such as:
Computational Biology
Cryptography and Number Theory
Operations Research
Data Mining
Mathematical Finance
Students can also pursue independent studies or directed research tailored to their interests at the intersection of math and computing.
Undergraduate Research:
Brown strongly emphasizes open inquiry and independent research. Students frequently collaborate with faculty through:
Undergraduate Teaching and Research Awards (UTRA)
Summer research fellowships
Honors theses in applied math, CS, or joint topics
Research topics span theoretical computer science, numerical optimization, AI applications, mathematical modeling, and more.
Capstone Projects:
Students may complete a senior capstone or design project integrating both disciplines—often working on real-world problems in tech, finance, healthcare, or academia.
Internships and Industry Engagement:
Brown’s CareerLAB and alumni network connect students with internship opportunities in:
Big Tech firms
Quantitative hedge funds and financial institutions
AI and machine learning startups
National research labs
Competitions and Innovation Labs:
Students participate in hackathons (Hack@Brown), algorithm competitions, data science sprints, and innovation labs hosted by the Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship.
Career Pathways:
Graduates are prepared for high-impact roles such as:
Software Engineer or Full-Stack Developer
Quantitative Analyst or Researcher
Data Scientist or AI Engineer
Cybersecurity Specialist
Product Manager or Innovation Strategist
Graduate Study & Research:
Many students pursue advanced degrees in:
CS, Applied Math, Data Science (MS or PhD)
Engineering, Computational Biology, or Operations Research
Business (MBA) or Law (JD), especially in technology policy and regulation
Leadership Growth:
With a dual background in math and CS, alumni often move into senior roles like:
Machine Learning Lead
Director of Analytics
VP of Engineering
CTO at startups or major tech firms
Career Pathways:
Graduates of the Computer Science and Applied Mathematics program at Boston University are exceptionally well-positioned for careers that combine computational power with mathematical precisionThey are highly sought after across industries including technologyfinancehealthcarecybersecurityand researchCommon career tracks include:
Software Engineering
Software Developer
Full-Stack Engineer
Mobile App Developer
These roles focus on building and maintaining high-performance applicationsweb platformsand mobile tools using robust software engineering principlesAI & Data Science
Machine Learning Engineer
Data Scientist
AI Researcher
Graduates use mathematical modeling and statistical algorithms to develop intelligent systemsanalyze complex dataand drive decision-making in diverse sectorsCybersecurity & Cloud Computing
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cloud Engineer
Ethical Hacker
With a solid foundation in algorithms and systemsgraduates play key roles in securing networksdesigning cloud infrastructureand ensuring digital safety at scaleFinance & Business Technology
Quantitative Analyst (Quant)
FinTech Developer
Blockchain Specialist
Applied mathematics skillscombined with programming expertisemake graduates ideal for data-driven roles in investment firmsfintech startupsand emerging blockchain environmentsProduct & Technical Management
Product Manager
Technical Program Manager
Students who complement their technical education with leadership and communication skills often transition into cross-functional roles where they oversee product development lifecycles and coordinate engineering teamsEntrepreneurship
Startup Founder
Innovation Consultant
Many graduates launch their own ventures or join early-stage startupsleveraging technical and mathematical expertise to create scalablehigh-impact solutionsFurther Study & Specialization
MS or PhD in fields like Artificial IntelligenceCybersecurityData Scienceor Computational Mathematics
MBA for leadership roles in tech-driven industries
Professional certifications in cloud platformssecurityor analytics
Advanced study enables students to transition into cutting-edge research roles or strategic positions in academiaindustryor policyLong-Term Growth Trajectories
Engineering Track: Software Engineer → Senior Developer → Tech Lead → Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Data & AI Track: Data Scientist → Lead Data Engineer → Head of AI
Management Track: Product Manager → Director of Product → VP of Engineering
The combination of mathematical logic and computational skill ensures long-term career flexibilityadaptabilityand leadership potential
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Brown University
