CS 2800

Last Updated

  • Schedule of Classes - April 14, 2026 7:07PM 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 or equivalent, CS 1110 or CS 1112 or equivalent.

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

    You may opt to enroll in a 1-credit Academic Excellence Workshop (AEW) to be taken in conjunction with this course. AEWs are weekly collaborative problem-solving workshops designed to enhance student understanding of course material. AEWs are facilitated by upper-level engineering students or CS majors. They are graded S/U based on attendance. In order to attend an AEW, you must enroll in an AEW section, listed under course number ENGRG 1028.
    For Bowers Computer and Information Science (CIS) Course Enrollment Help, please see: https://tdx.cornell.edu/TDClient/193/Portal/Home/

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