WM181-15 Discrete Mathematics
Introductory description
Discrete mathematics forms the mathematical foundation of computer science and cyber security. It forms the basis of how computers work, allows us to prove system correctness and security, and underlies modern cryptography. This course introduces the discrete structures used by computers, as well as how to use them to solve problems in cyber security.
Module aims
This module aims to give students an understanding of the discrete structures used in cyber security, and how to use them to solve problems in cyber security.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
- Logic and Proofs.
- Boolean Algebra and Logic Circuits.
- Basic Structures: Sets and Functions.
- Combinatorics.
- Probability.
- Number Theory.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Reason mathematically about the discrete structures used in cyber security
- Use a variety of techniques to prove and disprove mathematical statements
- Recognise common mistakes made in mathematical proofs
- Apply a variety of proof techniques to solve cyber security problems
Indicative reading list
Reading lists can be found in Talis
Specific reading list for the module
Subject specific skills
This course equips students with the foundational mathematical skills necessary in computer science and cyber security, including logic and proof, functions and their inverses, graphs, and probability, and applies these skills in a cyber context.
Transferable skills
Numeracy, logical reasoning, problem solving, written communication skills, and increased numerical confidence
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 15 sessions of 1 hour (10%) |
| Tutorials | 15 sessions of 1 hour (10%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 10 sessions of 1 hour (7%) |
| Private study | 50 hours (33%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Recapping of prior learning is expected where necessary.
Reading around the topics covered will provide the depth of understanding required to complete the course to a good standard. This may be both prior to and/or after the teaching and learning sessions.
The students will complete solution formatting and mathematical resilience elements.
Support from teaching staff is available but students will be expected to increasingly develop their independent learning skills.
Online forum and discussion (asynchronous).
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group D1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
|||
| Test | 30% | 18 hours | No |
|
This assessment will focus on topics related to Logic and Proofs, emphasising the use of various techniques to prove and disprove mathematical statements. |
|||
Reassessment component is the same |
|||
Assessment component |
|||
| Exam | 70% | 42 hours | No |
|
This assessment will focus on topics related to Sets, Functions, Boolean Algebra, Combinatorics, Probability and Number Theory, emphasising reasoning about discrete structures, recognising mistakes, and applying proofs to cybersecurity problems. ~Platforms - WAS
|
|||
Reassessment component is the same |
|||
Feedback on assessment
Formative feedback :
- Individual, verbal formative feedback on problem sets given during seminar sessions throughout the course.
Summative feedback:
- Cohort-level summative feedback on Assessment 1 (Test).
- Cohort-level summative feedback on Assessment 2 (Exam).
Courses
This module is Core for:
-
UWMA-H651 Undergraduate Cyber Security
- Year 1 of H651 Cyber Security
- Year 1 of H651 Cyber Security
- Year 1 of H651 Cyber Security