Mathematics (BA/BS)

The field of mathematics sits midway between the sciences and the humanities. Like the sciences, mathematical thought is very analytical, precise, and rigorous. But like the arts and humanities, mathematics is about exploring places of incredible grace and beauty, some of which can only be accessed through the power of imagination. You can explore geometry in ten-dimensional space, learn about advanced and exotic number systems, and study statistical techniques for finding patterns in data sets, all in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Students majoring in mathematics can choose a track from three areas: applied mathematics, pure mathematics, and secondary teaching. Applied mathematics studies physical, biological, and sociological aspects; pure mathematics focuses on the development of mathematical principles for their own sake; and secondary teaching prepares students to teach math. Regardless of your focus, the mathematics major will teach you the art of disciplined and logical thought, skills that are very valuable to future employers. A mathematics degree prepares you for work in fields like engineering, computer programming, information technology, financial planning, data management, business, and education.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Use the language of mathematics correctly in the context of linear algebra and multi-variable calculus.
• Read and interpret written mathematics expressed using definitions, axioms, theorems, proofs and conjectures.
• Write clear and logical explanations of mathematical ideas.
• Apply computational and problem solving skills to investigate new mathematical questions.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the remarkable breadth of classical mathematics, including at least one area from algebra (groups of symmetries, factorization in commutative rings), analysis (limits, derivatives, integrals, and series), and number theory (prime numbers, Diophantine equations, and quadratic reciprocity).
• (Pure track) Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of a more advanced topic in algebra, analysis or topology. Use appropriate software (such as LaTeX) for mathematical writing in the context of proofs in this area.
• (Secondary teaching track) Understand some of the foundations of geometry, and the history and applications of calculus, as appropriate for secondary teaching. Use software (such as Desmos, Mathematica) in this context.

The department offers undergraduate preparation for positions in government, business, and industry and for graduate work in mathematics and statistics. Each student’s major program is individually constructed in consultation with an advisor.

Upper-division courses used to satisfy major requirements must be taken for letter grades, and only one D grade (D+ or D or D–) may be counted toward the upper-division requirement. At least 12 credits in upper-division mathematics courses must be taken in residence at the university.

Statistical Methods I (MATH 425) cannot be used to satisfy requirements for a mathematics major or minor.

To qualify for a bachelor’s degree with a major in mathematics, a student must satisfy the requirements for one of three options: the standard track, pure mathematics, or secondary teaching. In each option, most courses require calculus as a prerequisite, and in each option some of the courses require satisfying the bridge requirement.

• Standard Track
• Pure Mathematics
• Secondary Teaching