CS 2800

Last Updated

  • Schedule of Classes - June 12, 2026 7:08PM EDT

CS 2800
Mathematical Foundations of Computing

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Covers the mathematics that underlies most of computer science. Topics include mathematical induction; logical reasoning and proof techniques; propositional and predicate logic; sets, functions, and relations; graphs; combinatorics and discrete mathematics; basic probability theory; and finite-state machines. These topics are discussed in the context of applications to many areas of computer science.


Prerequisites MATH 1110; CS 1110 or CS 1112; or equivalents.

Distribution Requirements (SMR-AS)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2026SP, 2025FA, 2025SP, 2024FA

Learning Outcomes

  • Use logical notation to define and reason about statements expressed in informal language.
  • Write mathematical proofs using clear and precise reasoning; recognize when to use various proof techniques; find errors in faulty proofs.
  • Precisely state induction hypotheses and write inductive proofs; write and use inductive definitions.
  • Reason about fundamental mathematical concepts such as sets, functions, relations, graphs and their properties.| Apply combinatorial reasoning to solve counting problems arising in real-world applications; use the pigeonhole principle to prove statements.
  • Use probability concepts and notation such as conditional probability, Bayes rule, random variables, and tail bounds to model and analyze real-world applications; compute associated quantitaties such as probabilities, expectations, variance, covariance, and correlation.
  • Prove properties of regular languages and automata; design automata and regular expressions accepting or denoting a certain regular language; prove that a language is not regular.

View Enrollment Information

Syllabi: none

  •   Regular Academic Session.  Choose one lecture and one discussion.

  • 4 Credits GradeNoAud

  • 17284 CS 2800   LEC 001

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    • MWF
    • Aug 24 - Dec 7, 2026

    • van Zuylen, A

  • Instruction Mode: In Person

    For Bowers Computer and Information Science (CIS) Course Enrollment Help, please see: https://tdx.cornell.edu/TDClient/193/Portal/Home/

  • 17285 CS 2800   DIS 201

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