Math and Computer Science

Pushing new frontiers in artificial intelligence. Developing must-have mobile apps. Securing data through cryptography. Alverno’s 3+2 math and computer science dual-degree program, offered in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, adds up to an exciting, high-tech career.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, computer science was a hot and high-paying field, and the world’s shift to more online activities only increased demand for graduates with technical expertise. Jobs for mathematicians also continue to grow much faster than the average for other professions, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

With this dual-degree program, you’ll earn two in-demand bachelor’s degrees in just five years, making you even more marketable.

The Alverno difference

Our innovative curriculum — grounded in Alverno’s 8 Abilities — will build the interpersonal skills, confidence and leadership acumen you need to excel in the workplace. You won’t just learn how to find the right answers — you’ll develop the communication skills to explain how you got your answers and what the answers mean.

Alverno’s small classes and empowering environment will help you achieve your best. Our caring faculty will guide you through rigorous courses and help you develop as a mathematician and a person. Plus, you’ll connect with fellow STEM majors through shared classes, joint projects and other networking opportunities, broadening your perspective and exposing you to new possibilities across campus.

Outside of class, you might work as a paid lab assistant or tutor in the Daniel M. Soref Science and Mathematics Resource Center, mentor high school students through Alverno’s Girls’ Academy of Science & Mathematics, or participate in faculty-student research through the Center for Academic Excellence.

Coursework

You’ll spend your first three years as a math major at Alverno, studying calculus, linear algebra, discrete structures and algorithms, probability and statistics, Python programming, mathematical problem-solving and more. In every class, you’ll learn to connect theory with real-world applications.

After building a strong math foundation, your two years of computer science at UWM will grow your technical skills as you concentrate in one of nine areas:

• Artificial intelligence, data mining and machine learning
• Computer architecture and hardware
• Computer graphics and human-computer interfaces
• Computer networks and operating systems
• Computer security and information security systems
• Databases and information systems
• Medical and bio-informatics
• Programming languages and compilers
• Theory and algorithms

You’ll have the opportunity to work with faculty conducting leading-edge research in cryptography, robotics, intelligent dialog systems and more.

Field education

You’ll intern for at least one semester at Alverno (plus gain additional field experiences at UWM). In the past, math students have interned at Northwestern Mutual, the Milwaukee Brewers, Harley-Davidson, AT&T and the Medical College of Wisconsin, among other sites. Alverno’s Career Studio can help you find the right internship for your career goals.

Career opportunities

Employers in a wide range of industries are looking for analytical thinkers with strong quantitative and problem-solving skills. A bachelor’s degree in math can prepare you for a variety of roles in fields such as biology, business, environmental science, education, financial services, medicine and more. Your bachelor’s degree in computer science will open additional doors, preparing you for roles as diverse as game designer, software engineer and data analyst.

Admission requirements

Your first step is to complete the free application at alverno.edu/apply. You should mark your intended major as math and computer science. As part of your admissions process, we’ll examine your high school transcripts and any AP or IB exams to determine the appropriate place for you to begin studying math at Alverno.

Before attending UWM, you must complete the Alverno math coursework, receive a positive recommendation from the Alverno dual-degree advisor and meet all UWM undergraduate admissions requirements. Once you complete your computer science coursework, you’ll apply for graduation at both institutions and will be eligible to participate in both commencement ceremonies.

The Annual Crime and Fire Safety Report for Alverno College, which includes crime statistics and annual fire safety statistics, can be found online. A hard copy of the report is available upon request. Please send your request to Jason Pilarski, director of Campus Safety.