The University of Sheffield
School of Computer Science

COM1002 Foundations of Computer Science

Summary

In the first semester of this module, we will cover the topics in discrete mathematics that provide an essential foundation for later studies in the school. This includes topics such as sets, functions, and relations, propositional and predicate logic, boolean algebra, combinatorics, induction, recursion, proof strategies, graph theory, and number theory.

In the second semester of this module, we will cover the topics in continuous mathematics that provide an essential foundation for later studies in the school. This includes topics such as trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomials, limits and continuity, differential calculus of one and two variables, integration, series summation and power series, matrices, vector calculus and linear algebra.    

Session Academic Year 2026/27
Credits 20
Assessment

Formal examinations.

Lecturer(s) Prof. Parinya Chalermsook, Dr Maksim Zhukovski,  Dr Georgios Moulantzikos, & Dr Robert Loftin  
Resources
Aims The aims of this module are to:
  • introduce the fundamental mathematical concepts needed in the computer science degree.
  • enhance the students' confidence in mathematics.
  • stimulate the students' interest in mathematics for computing.
Learning Outcomes  By the end of this module the student will be able to:
  • Reason using combinatorial arguments.
  • Identify and use relevant mathematical notations.
  • Demonstrate how mathematical techniques can contribute to the analysis of problems within computer science.
  • Apply concepts in mathematics to frame problems and reason about them.
Content

Semester 1 includes topics such as:

  • sets, functions, sequences and relations,
  • proof strategies and logical syntax,
  • graph theory,
  • combinatorics,
  • algebraic structures and number theory,
  • induction and recursion.

Semester 2 includes topics such as:

  • linear algebra
    • Vectors,
    • Matrices,
    • vector spaces,
    • linear operators,
    • eigenvectors and eigenvalues,
  • calculus/analysis
    • convergence of sequences and functions,
    • limits, O-o-notations,
    • Continuity,
    • differentiation and integration in R and C,
    • partial differentiation
    • basics of ordinary differential equations.
Teaching Method Lectures and tutorials.
Feedback Feedback on tutorial exercises, assignments and during lectures.