Mathematics - BA

Major

The mathematics major introduces students to the fundamental areas of mathematics and provides some degree of specialization in one or more areas. It trains students in the analytic thinking characteristic of pure and applied mathematics and provides familiarity with rigorous methods of mathematical proof. In addition to the traditional major in mathematics, described below, the department also offers a number of specialized undergraduate tracks for students interested in pursuing careers in bioinformatics or in preparing for teaching: the concentration in Quantitative Biology, the concentration in Preparation for Adolescent Education (grades 7-12), and the concentration in Preparation for Childhood Education (grades 1-6.)

To enter the traditional mathematics major, the student should have completed one year of calculus (MATH 15000 and MATH 15500 , or the equivalent). The major consists of at least 33 credits of coursework: 24 credits of core curriculum courses taken by all mathematics majors except those enrolled in the Concentration in Preparation for Childhood Education (grades 1-6) and at least 9 credits of advanced elective courses, chosen by students according to their career plans.

Students interested in pursuing mathematics at the advanced graduate level are urged to participate in the BA/MA program in Mathematics. The BA/MA program in Preparation for Adolescent Education leads to professional certification in adolescent education (grades 7-12) in mathematics. Certification may also be received by completing the BA degree with a mathematics major and then completing the graduate Teacher Education Program (TEP) in Mathematics or the graduate Urban Teacher Residency in Mathematics.

Major Core Curriculum (24 cr)

Elective Courses

The student must complete three 3-credit approved elective courses. The elective courses must be chosen from the 300-or 400-level courses in mathematics or statistics listed by the department. Factors affecting the choice of courses will include the student’s career goals (preparation for graduate study; education; careers in business, government service or industry), the student’s other major, where applicable, and the availability of courses due to the course rotation schedule. A 300-level course may be replaced by a graduate level course approved by a departmental adviser.

Symbolic Computation Proficiency Requirement

As a requirement for graduation with a BA in Mathematics, students must demonstrate entry level proficiency in symbolic computation. The requirement can be met in any of the following ways:

a) passing any of

b) passing a departmental exam in a computer algebra system (currently we use MATHEMATICA or the equivalent)

Honors

A student majoring in mathematics or statistics may become a candidate for departmental honors by successfully completing MATH 490, by presenting a major GPA of at least 3.6 and by achieving a satisfactory rating on a comprehensive examination.

MATH 49000 - Honors Seminar

Minor in Mathematics

A minor in mathematics consists of a minimum of 12 credits selected from the following courses offered by the department: MATH courses numbered 15000 or above (with the exception of MATH 26100 ), STAT 31100, STAT 31200. Mathematics minors are required to take all necessary prerequisites. Students should consult the catalog to determine prerequisites necessary for them to enroll in courses that count toward the minor. It is recommended that prospective mathematics minors consult with an undergraduate mathematics adviser concerning course selection.