Major in Mathematics

General Information

The Department of Mathematics provides students with a variety of opportunities for developing their mathematical abilities. These opportunities range from the traditional classroom lecture setting to the highly individualized Honors Tutorial Program. Students considering mathematics as a career should realize that the emphasis in their course work will shift as their education progresses. Early in their studies, courses have a more computational aspect, whereas later they become somewhat abstract with emphasis on concepts rather than computations.

In order to help the student acquire an appreciation for the nature of mathematical studies, introductory courses are offered at the sophomore-junior level in number theory, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and geometry. Regular course offerings at the upper level in analysis topology, algebra, and applied mathematics permit students to pursue studies in pure or applied areas of mathematics, or both. Many courses are suitable for non-majors who wish to enrich their backgrounds.

Areas of Study

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics: A student studying mathematics with the intention of eventually doing graduate work in mathematics would normally complete courses in calculus, matrix and/or abstract algebra, intermediate analysis, and linear algebra, followed by upper level sequences in advanced calculus, abstract algebra, or topology.

A student wishing to use mathematics training in business or industry may wish to select lower division courses such as calculus, finite mathematics, and linear algebra, and chose upper level courses in statistics, numerical analysis, and linear and nonlinear programming.

A student preparing for teacher certification should seek a broad background in various areas of mathematics, including algebra, analysis, geometry, computer science, probability, and statistics. In conjunction with the required professional education courses, the mathematics department offers a course on the teaching of mathematics which includes some classroom teaching experience.

There are many possible combinations of courses leading to a degree in mathematics. When planning any program of study it is strongly recommended that the student consult an advisor from the department.

Special Programs

Preparation for Actuarial Science:

This is a program intended to provide students with a course of study suitable for entry into the actuarial profession. A student who completes the program should be prepared to pass the first actuarial examination. Since the program has a strong business component, it is also suitable for those students who plan to combine mathematics with a career in business.

Applied Track:

The applied track is aimed at students who seek a strong mathematical background and the ability to apply mathematics in other fields.

Advanced Training Track:

The department provides an assortment of substantial mathematics offerings to ensure adequate preparation for students who envision eventually doing graduate work in mathematics.

The Honors Tutorial Program:

In addition to the bachelor's degrees offered by the College of Arts and Sciences, the department participates in the program administered by the Honors Tutorial College which offers a B.S. degree in mathematics. The program is open to students with high scholastic achievements, who are highly motivated towards careers in mathematics.

A student is guided in this program by a member of the mathematics faculty who serves as his or her individual tutor to evaluate progress and plan new directions of study.

The student and tutor plan a course of study which will meet the departmental competency requirements. The student meets regularly with his or her tutor to evaluate progress and plan new directions of study. Thus, the tutorial student is freed from the confines of the traditional classroom lecture situation and is given the freedom to develop personal interests and abilities.

In addition to the tutorials, students are encouraged to audit or take other mathematics courses in order to acquire a broad mathematical background. The tutorial students are also encouraged to study subjects in the sciences and humanities so that their education will reflect the traditional values associated with an Arts and Sciences degree.

Further Information

If you have questions or want more information, then contact the undergraduate chair.