MATHEMATICS AND

COMPUTING SCIENCE
CAREER PROGRAM
HANDBOOK
 Title of Degree: Bachelor of Mathematics and Computing Science

Abbreviation: BMCS

DWU Course Code: MCS

Total Credit Points: 480

Duration: 4 years full-time

Entry Requirements Min. B in Mathematics A or equivalent, B in Science, Min B

in English
Home Faculty: Faculty of Business & Informatics

Delivery Mode: On-campus (Face-to-face)

Delivery Campus DWU Madang Campus

Additional Information: DWU Website

What is Computing Science?

The titles Computing and Computer Science are often confused. Indeed, both areas cover similar
topics topics.

Computing includes designing, developing, building hardware and software systems by writing
algorithms in order to process, structure and manage information. It also involves in research
and development in communications and entertainment media by using various computing
principles.

Computer science deals with understanding and designing computers, software systems, and
computational process. However, it is mostly concerned with the information transfer, and
designs algorithms accordingly.

Department of Mathematics and Computing Science (MCS)

The Bachelor of Mathematics and Computing Science program fills an urgent emerging need to
provide the workforce of Papua New Guinea with professionals who are competent to apply
mathematical and computing techniques and engage in research in mathematics and computing
science. The demand for computer-literate mathematicians continues to grow as technology
advances. Whether it is making a mobile phone secure, understanding the behavior of complex
software or designing a super-fast algorithm, mathematics IS the key. Mathematics is also
being used in medicine, for example in the analysis of brain scans; and in anthropology, in the
study of social relationships; to name just a couple of examples.

Mathematics is becoming increasingly useful in all facets of life. This Bachelor of Mathematics
and Computing Science program aims to give a solid grounding in the methods of modern
applicable mathematics with a particular emphasis on applications in computing, including
mobile phone technology.

Program Description

The degree program consists of four years of study, but students can exit with a diploma after
two years. Capable students may continue on to postgraduate studies. The Bachelor of
Mathematics and Computing program aims to cater for the interests of those people who would
like to specialize in pure mathematics and its applications to computing science. The computing
units emphasize the use of mathematics in several areas of computing, especially in the area of
software design and data analysis and data and network security.

Graduates of the program will be competent to apply mathematical and computing techniques
in the work force and engage in research in mathematics and computing science. Graduates have
the attributes to be competent in mathematics and computing, effective and articulate in
interpersonal and public communication using both oral and written genres, aware of the ethical
and social implications and imperatives of their work and aware of the ideal of personal integrity
in all aspects of professional life.

Pre-requisite

Applicants are required to have completed the equivalent of four years secondary education or
equivalent from a recognized educational institution. Minimum grades of ‘B’ in English, ‘B’ in
Mathematics A, and ‘B’ in Physics are required at Grade 12 PNG secondary school level.
Additionally, an applicant must have at least a ‘C’ in all other subjects taken in secondary school.
Course Offered to Full-time MCS Students

YEAR 1, BMCS YEAR 2, BMCS

Semester 1 Semester 1
MC116 Structured Programming 2 MC104 Calculus 2
MC117 Pre-Calculus MC203 Linear Algebra
MC118 Applied Discrete Mathematics MC213 Data Structures
IS110 Christian & Professional Ethics MC214 Systems Analysis and Design
Semester 2 Semester 2
MC102 Calculus 1 MC106 Probability and Statistics 1
MC204 Computer Organization MC212 Object Oriented Programming
MC119 Structured Programming 1 MC215 Calculus 3
IS103 Communication Skills MC216 Mobile Application Development

YEAR 3, BMCS YEAR 4, BMCS

Semester 1 Semester 1
MC303 Programming Languages MC309 Mathematical Modelling
MC312 Computer Networks (CCNA 1) MC413 Theory of Computation
MC314 Differential Equations MC414 IS Advanced Topic 2
MC315 Abstract Algebra IS308 Data Communications 3 (CCNA 3)
Semester 2
MC308 Probability and Theory Statistics 2 Semester 2
MC408 Research Topic and Symposium
MC316 Real Analysis
MC415 Operating Systems
MC317 Relational Databases
MC409 Human-Computer Interaction
IS304 Data Communications 2 (CCNA 2)
IS404 Data Communications 4 (CCNA 4)
MCS Graduate Career path Guide
OCCUPATIONAL OCCUPATIONAL EXAMPLES CAREER PATH
CLUSTER
NETWORK  Networking  Systems  Network
INFRASTRUCTURE Technician Administrator Administration
& MANAGEMENT  Network Support  Network Architect
 Networks &  Network Technician  Networking
Computer System  Network Server
Administrator Administrator  Network Engineer
APPLICATION  Mobile application  Coding, design and
DEVELOPMENT development analysis  Application/software
AND SOFTWARE  Software development  System development and
DEVELOPMENT development management
DATABASE, E-  Database  Web Administrator
 Software Engineer
COMMERCE Administrator  Web Developer

 Database
STATISTICS &  Statisticians  Data Analyst
development and
MATHEMATICAL  Mathematical  Actuaries
Administration
MODELLING Modeler

MATHEMATICIANS:  Teacher  Educationist

 Statisticians and
HIGHER  Tutor  Mathematicians Modeler, Actuaries
EDUCATION  Lecturer
TEACHING AND
 Teaching/University
LEARNING AND
Tutor/Lecturer
MANAGEMENT
INFORMATION  Computer Security Server security
 Research Scientist
AND  Software security Cyber security
(Maths), Acoustic
COMMUNICATION Network Security
consultant, Actuarial
TECHNOLOGY
analyst
SECURITY SYSTEM
 System Admin. &
DEVELOPMENT
Management
AND
 Security Analyst.
MANAGEMENT
 Penetration Tester.
 Security Architect.
 IT Security
Engineer.
 Security Systems
Administrator
MCS CAREER PATHWAY PROGRAM UNIT MAPPING

OCCUPATIONAL RELATED UNIT OF STUDY RELATED INDUSTRY

CLUSTER CERTIFICATIONS
NETWORK  IS212 Introduction to Networking  IS404 Data Com 3  CISCO  ISE
INFRASTRUCTURE  MCS305 Cryptography  IS304 Data Com 1 CCENT  ISA
& MANAGEMENT  IS308 Data Com 2  CISCO  CompTIA
CCNA Network+
 ICND1/2  CompTIA
Server+
APPLICATION  MC103 Introduction to  MC116 Structured Programming 2
DEVELOPMENT Computing Science  MC212 Object Oriented Programming
AND SOFTWARE  MC118 Discrete Mathematics  MC303 Programming Language
DEVELOPMENT  MC109 Structured Programming  MC216 Mobile Application
1 Development
 MC409 Human Computer
Interaction
DATABASE, E-  MC202 Real and Complex Analysis  MC317 Relational Database
COMMERCE  MC204 Computer Organization  MC305 Cryptography
 MC 213 Data structures  MC411 Software Engineering
STATISTICS &  MC117 Pre-calculus  MC213 Calculus 3
MATHEMATICAL  MC118 Discrete Mathematics  MC314 Differential Equation
MODELLING  MC102 Calculus 1  MC309 Mathematical Modelling
 MC104 Calculus 2  MC203 Linear Algebra
 MC106 Probability and Statistics 1  MC308 Probability and Statistics 2
HIGHER  MC117 Pre-calculus  MC213 Calculus 3
EDUCATION  MC118 Discrete Mathematics  MC314 Differential Equation
TEACHING AND  MC102 Calculus 1  MC309 Mathematical Modelling
LEARNING AND  MC104 Calculus 2  MC203 Linear Algebra
MANAGEMENT  MC106 Probability and Statistic 1  MC308 Probability and Statistics 2
 MC202 Real and Complex Analysis  MC116 Structured Programming 2
  MC204 Computer Organization  MC212 Object Oriented Programming
 MC213 Data structures  MC303 Programming Language
 MC305 Cryptography  MC216 Mobile Application
 MC411 Software Engineering Development
 MC317 Relational Database

INFORMATION  MC117 Pre-calculus  MC305 Cryptography

AND  MC118 Discrete Mathematics  MC411 Software Engineering
COMMUNICATION  MC102 Calculus 1  MC116 Structured Programming 2
TECHNOLOGY  MC303 Programming Language  MC212 Object Oriented Programming
SECURITY SYSTEM  MC305 Cryptography
DEVELOPMENT
AND
MANAGEMENT
 MCS CAREER PATHWAY CURRICULUM SEQUENCING

Mathematical Modeler
Financial Analyst
Modeling Enginner
Teacher/Lecturer
Statisticians Statisticians
Data Analysist Security Analyst. Software and Application
Data Analysist Secondary School Teacher
Actuarial Analyst Penetration Tester. Development
Actuarial Analyst University Tutor/Lecturer
Investment Analyst Security Architect. Program Management
Investment Analyst
Data Science IT Security Engineer. Software Engineer
Data Science
Research Scientist Research Scientist Security Systems
Teacher/Lec turer Teacher/Lec turer Administrator

MC408 MC411
MC409 Human MC408 Research Software
Research
Project Computer Interaction Project Engineering
MC308 Probability and MC305
MC309 Statistics 2 Crytography
M216 Mobile MC317
Mathematical Application Database Development
Modeling Relational Database Management
Development Database System Analyst
MC106 Probability and
MC314 MC202 Real MC303 MC212 Object
Statistics 1
Differential and Complex Programming Oriented
Equations Analysis Languages Programming
MC214 System
Analysis and MC213 Data
Structures Network
MC213 Design
MC315 Abstract MC116 Structured Management and
Calculus 3 Administration
Algebra Programming 2

MC104
Calculus 2 MC109 Structured
MC203 Linear Programming 1
Algebra MC118 Applied MC204 MC415
MC102 Discrete MC103 Computer Operating
Calculus 1 Mathematics Computing Organization System
Science

MC117 Pre-
Calculus
 FINAL YEAR RESEARCH PROJECT
MCS Program Guide
Year 1

MC117 Pre-Calculus - 15 Credit Points

This unit strengthens algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric concepts and prepares students
for higher-level university courses, such as calculus. The course begins by reviewing linear
equations, progresses to studying conics and functions from an analytic perspective, and
concludes by investigating right triangle and unit circle approaches to trigonometry, as well as
trigonometric identities and equations.

MC118 Applied Discrete Mathematics - 15 Credit Points

This unit introduces students to the concept of proof by studying sets, numbers and functions
from a rigorous viewpoint. The course begins by reviewing basic knowledge on number theory
and progresses to introducing many topics in discrete mathematics. These topics provide a
foundation for higher-level mathematics and computer programming courses.

MC109 Structured Programming 1 - 15 Credit Points

This unit is a first course in computer programming. Programming topics to be addressed include
algorithmic design, programming structures of sequence, selection and iteration, simple text
processing and mathematical manipulation. Additionally, an overview treatment of the history
of computing and other general computer science topics will be addressed including the history
of Computing, Social Repercussions, Data Storage, the Binary Number System, Data
Manipulation, Computer Architecture, Machine Language and Operating Systems.

IS110 Christian & Professional Ethics - 15 Credit Points

Ethics is a systematic, critical study concerned with the evaluation of human conduct to help
make decisions about the future. It is concerned about what is right, fair, just or good; about
what we ought to do, not just what is the case or what is most acceptable or expedient. Christian
ethics is the critical evaluation of human conduct from a Christian perspective. In this course,
students will explore the understanding, sources and importance of ethics in everybody’s
personal and professional life.

MC102 Calculus 1 - 15 Credit Points

Building upon the foundations established in MC117 Pre-Calculus, this unit addresses the
significant role of mathematics in describing and resolving simple and complex problems relevant
to real world situations. The formulation and solution of such problems is supported by
appropriate advanced mathematical concepts used for differentiation. Gained will be a deeper
understanding of the concepts of limits and derivatives, and how these may be used in applied
contexts. Undertaking this unit will allow development of problem solving skills.

MC204 Computer Organization - 15 Credit Points

This unit provides an overview of computer systems, representation of data, digital logic, micro-
programming level, instruction set processor level, operating system level, and assembly
language level. This unit demonstrates the applications of logic and number theory to computer
design and organization, and to the design of operating systems.

MC116 Structured Programming 2 - 15 Credit Points

This unit is a continuation of the studies begun in Structured Programming 1. Programming topics
to be addressed include reading and writing files, pointers and dynamic memory allocation, and
command line programming. Additionally, an overview treatment of the history of computing
and other general computer science topics will be addressed including Networking, Programming
Languages, Software Engineering , Data Abstractions , Database Systems, Computer Graphics,
Artificial Intelligence, and the Theory of Computation.

IS103 Communication Skills - 15 Credit Points

In education, the workplace, and the wider community, communication skills are regarded as
vitally important for a person’s growth and advance in their career and lives. This unit introduces
students to theory and concepts of communication. Different types and forms of communication
skills are introduced and practiced to assist students in their professional and personal
communications. Consideration for computer-assisted communication is demonstrated in
assisting students in developing word processing and power point presentation skills.

Year 2

MC104 Calculus 2 - 15 Credit Points

To develop knowledge and advanced analytical skills in the field of integral calculus involving
functions of single variables through independent and collaborative learning. To equip students
with the techniques required for the application of integral calculus in disciplines where these
concepts are used.

MC203 Linear Algebra - 15 Credit Points

This unit introduces the basic ideas and techniques of linear algebra that are built upon in more
advanced classes in both mathematics and computer science. Linear algebra begins with the
fundamental theory of systems of linear equations, important in much scientific and industrial
application, and moves through matrices and determinants. The course then introduces abstract
reasoning and proof techniques as it progresses through the central topic of vector spaces. Linear
algebra is well placed to introduce ‘abstract notions,’’ basic ideas of abstract algebra and
techniques of proof, which will be useful for future units in pure mathematics.

MC213 Data Structures - 15 Credit Points

This unit is a study of data organization and processing in the context of abstract data types. This
course combines classroom lecture format with hands on supervised laboratory programming
exercises each week to cover topics including pointers, lists, strings, stacks, queues, trees,
searching, and sorting. It is taught against the backdrop of a modern programming language.

MC214 Systems Analysis and Design - 15 Credit Points

This unit is an introduction to the knowledge and skills needed for creating or modifying an
information system. Central concepts include gathering details, analyzing the data, designing the
system by creating solutions, and implementing and maintaining the system. The unit introduces
established and evolving methodologies for the analysis, design, and development of an
information system. Emphasis is placed on system characteristics, managing projects,
prototyping, coverage of UML, and systems development life cycle phases. Agile software
development methodologies are introduced.

MC106 Probability and Statistics 1 - 15 Credit Points

This unit introduces basic ideas and techniques of probability and statistics, including probability
distributions, conditional probability and independence, the estimation of population means and
variances, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and correlation. This unit is a basic
introduction to Mathematical Statistics and forms a basis for all the later units in statistics.

MC212 Object Oriented Programming - 15 Credit Points

An introduction to object-oriented programming techniques, using a contemporary

programming language. This course covers topics such as object-oriented design, classes and
methods, inheritance, polymorphism, templates, software reuse, and the event-driven
programming. Other topics included are control structures, functions, arrays, abstraction and
encapsulation, classes and abstract classes and objects, inheritance, polymorphism, constructors,
access control and overloading.

MC215 Calculus 3 - 15 Credit Points

This unit includes the following: polar coordinates; parametric equations; conic sections; quadric
surfaces; vector-valued functions; Fourier series; functions of several variables; graphs; partial
derivatives; total derivatives; extrema; Lagrange multipliers; Taylor series for multivariable
functions; double and triple integrals; Green's theorems; line and surface integrals; divergence
theorem; Stoke's theorem; applications.
MC214 Systems Analysis and Design - 15 Credit Points

This unit is an introduction to the knowledge and skills needed for creating or modifying an
information system. Central concepts include gathering details, analyzing the data, designing the
system by creating solutions, and implementing and maintaining the system. The unit introduces
established and evolving methodologies for the analysis, design, and development of an
information system. Emphasis is placed on system characteristics, managing projects,
prototyping, coverage of UML, and systems development life cycle phases. Agile software
development methodologies are introduced.

Year 3

MC303 Programming Languages - 15 Credit Points

This unit addresses the principles of programming language design and use. It introduces
different models of computation and the programming languages based on them, particularly
functional programming and logic programming. It then examines a range of underlying Issue in
programming languages, such as semantics of programming languages, type systems, and control
in programming languages.

MC312 Computer Networks (CCNA 1) - 15 Credit Points

This unit provides an introduction to computer networking that expose the students to the
fundamental principles and architectures underlying computer networks, with the focus on the
Internet. Students are provided with full-fledged Internet application projects that bring together
a full understanding of both theory and practice. After taking this unit, the knowledge and skills
acquired by the students should enable them to learn new and emerging technologies and be
capable of contributing to the field of computer networking.

MC314 Differential Equations - 15 Credit Points

This unit is an introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations. Differential Equations allow us to

connect mathematics with the physical world. There are two main branches of differential
equations; Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations and the distinction lies in the type of
derivatives involved. The unit requires the use of undergraduate calculus and linear algebra to
solve Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE).

MC315 Abstract Algebra - 15 Credit Points

Abstract Algebra deals with how attributes of sets of mathematical objects behave when one or
more properties associated with real numbers are restricted. For example, if we add or multiply
a real number, we get a real number. That is real numbers are closed under multiplication and
division. However, if we divide one integer by another integer, we may not get an integer as a
result—meaning that integers are not closed under division. The commutative principle of
multiplication also holds good for integers, unlike matrix multiplication. In abstract algebra we
investigate these sorts of properties and try to determine which properties hold true for any set
of mathematical objects under certain operations and which types of structures result when we
perform certain operations. Abstract algebra has applications in a variety of diverse fields,
including computation, physics, and economics etc. We will begin this course by reviewing basic
set theory, relations and integers in order to understand how algebraic operations arise and are
used. These form the basis for studying advanced algebra structures such as groups, rings and
fields, the latter two of which are studied in another unit.

MC308 Probability and Theory Statistics 2 - 15 Credit Points

This unit continues the development of probability and statistics from the first year unit MC106
so that all students have the basic grounding in this area that would be expected of a
mathematics graduate. It provides a solid basis for a wide variety of options later in the program
for students who wish to take their studies in probability and/or statistics further.

MC316 Real Analysis - 15 Credit Points

This unit introduces you to the rigorous examination of the real number system and the
foundations of calculus of functions of a single real variable. Analysis connects algebra and
topology. In calculus, you use the notion of a limit to find rates of change and areas under curves.
The intuitive approach involved in finding limits of real valued functions was based on the
assumption that the underlying field was of real numbers. In this unit we extend those ideas to
include other underlying spaces. The unit involves justifying every step of a limiting process. After
a brief review of set theory, you will dive into the analysis of sequences, upon which all analysis
of Euclidean space is based.

MC317 Relational Databases - 15 Credit Points

This unit introduces relational databases, database management systems and the facilities
required to store and access large collections of data in a shared user environment. UML
diagrams and expressing a database model in UML is covered. Supporting topics of the theory of
relations, data modelling and database architecture are covered as well. Introduction to the
database language SQL and the means to develop of a practical database system, including the
process of developing data relations into higher orders of normalization.

IS304 Data Communications 2 (CCNA 2) - 15 Credit Points

Increasingly, Local Area Networks (LAN’s) are linked to other LAN’s via Wide Area Networks
(WAN’s) in a process known as internetworking. The largest example of this is the Internet to
which most LAN’s today are connected. This unit builds on the basic networking concepts gained
in MC312 to develop the concepts, protocols and technology required for internetworking.
Hardware includes layer 2 switches and layer 3 routers, which are discussed and configured using
both simulation software and with a hardware network provided in a laboratory setting. The
TCP/IP protocol suite used on the internet is studied as well as IP4 addressing schemes and Access
Control lists. This unit addresses aspects of the ACS Core Areas of Data Communications and
Networks as well as the CCNA (CISCO Certified Network Associate) curriculum.

Year 4

MC309 Mathematical Modelling - 15 Credit Points

One of the interesting areas in mathematics is that of mathematical modeling, which involves the
use of mathematical ideas to investigate “real-world” problems. Mathematics has many
applications in areas such as economics, finance, biology, medicine, physics, and engineering.
Therefore, understanding of the role and potential of mathematical modeling is an important
part of the mathematical knowledge of any student pursuing a career in mathematics or science.
The unit requires the use of calculus and ordinary differential equations to model simple
problems and then using mathematical software to implement and study their behaviors

MC411 Software Engineering - 15 Credit Points

This is development of systematic application of scientific and technological knowledge,

methods, and experience to the design, implementation, testing, and documentation of software
Systems and software engineering. It is the development of the application of a systematic,
disciplined, quantifiable approach to the, operation, and maintenance of software. An
engineering discipline is concerned with all aspects of software production.

IS308 Data Communication 3 (CCNA 3) -15 Credit Points

This unit builds on the internetworking concepts gained in IS304. The focus is now on the
topologies, technologies and protocols of Wide Area Networks. As well the CISCO IOS is studied
to configure routers and to manage a CISCO internetwork. An internetworking software
simulation package is used to enable the practicing of network configuration and management
skills. Students design and document a major multi-campus internetwork for a hypothetical PNG
enterprise. This unit addresses aspects of the ACS Core Areas of Data Communications and
Networks as well as the CCNA (CISCO Certified Network Associate) curriculum.

MC409 Human Computer Interaction - 15 Credit Points

This unit addresses the analysis, design, prototyping and evaluation of interfaces to allow
efficient and effective use of interactive systems, focusing on the user-centered design approach
as a key part of the software development life cycle. Practical examples will be taken from areas
such as multimedia, the web and novel interface applications.
MC408 Research Topic and Symposium -15 Credit Points

Research in the mathematical sciences contributes to a wide variety of fields in the real world.
Building on problem solving skills developed in the first two years of mathematical sciences
studies, this unit offers you the opportunity to investigate and develop a more holistic, systematic
problem solving approach. Such skills are required to undertake research in real world contexts
and in further studies at university.

MC415 Operating Systems -15 Credit Points

This unit covers principles of computer operating systems and analysis of operating system
architectures. Included are consideration of the topics of processes, inter-process
communication and synchronization; CPU job scheduling, memory and input/output device
management; file system management; virtual memory; and mutual exclusion and deadlocks.

IS404 Data Communication 4 (CCNA 4) - 15 Credit Points

This course discusses the WAN technologies and network services required by converged
applications in a complex network. The course enables students to understand the selection
criteria of network devices and WAN technologies to meet network requirements. Students learn
how to configure and troubleshoot network devices and resolve common issue with data link
protocols. Students will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to implement virtual
private network (VPN) operations in a complex network.

MC413 Theory of Computation - 15 Credit Points

This unit is an introduction to the classical and contemporary theory of computation. Topics
include theory of automata and formal language, computing by Turing machines, Church's thesis,
and decision problems. Computability and the complexity classes P versus NP will be introduced.

MC414 IS Advanced Topic 2 - 15 Credit Points

This unit provides a second opportunity for students to study in an advanced topic in
Mathematics or Computing Science. It is designed to equip students who plan to work or pursue
further study in a particular area of interest in Mathematics or Computing Science with a
background and experience needed to be successful. This unit will be offered as needed. Its
content will be shaped in consultation with students, bearing in mind their topics of
specialization.
Mathematics and Computing Science (MCS) Career Pathway

MCS CAREER PATHWAY Bachelor of Mathematics and Computing Science (Bach.

MCS)

What is the MCS Career Pathway?

The MCS Career Pathway is a framework of broad groupings of career specialties/occupations
that are called pathways. The specialties/occupations included in each of the Pathways have
common skills and knowledge. Occupations generally found under this discipline area have been
listed here.
What is the purpose of the career pathway?
The is Career Pathway provides an organizing tool for MCS students to provide a framework for
exploring career options in the future from present, and a structure to link learning to the skills
and knowledge needed for future success.
How can the MCS Career Pathway be used?

There are many ways it can be used by both the students and the staff within the department.
Most importantly, it can be used as a tool for career awareness and exploration. Identifying
various occupations within each of the career pathways is a good start to developing career
exploration activities. While career exploration is valuable for all, special needs students such as
second language learners or those with disabilities have limited role models and may face
stereotyped expectations. Introducing students to broad career pathways and the numerous
occupations within each pathway expands possibilities for students and motivates them.