CSCI2244

Randomness and Computation

This course presents the mathematical and computational tools needed to solve problems that involve randomness. For example, an understanding of random variables allows us to efficiently generate the enormous prime numbers needed for information security, and to quantify the expected performance of a machine learning algorithm beyond a small data sample. An understanding of covariance allows high quality compression of audio and video. Topics include combinatorics and counting, random experiments and probability, random variables and distributions, computational modeling of randomness, Bayes' rule, laws of large numbers, vectors and matrices, covariance and principal axes, and Markov chains.

Course overview

Department
Computer Science
School
MCAS
Credits
3

Requirements fulfilled

No source-backed degree requirement is attached to this course yet.

Official evaluation summary

3.39 / 5

Based on 447 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-07-23. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

Sections

  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Usman Khan · 245 Beacon Street Room 214 MW 01:30PM-02:45PM · Offered