Sample Courses
- Applied mathematics pertains to the branches of mathematics involved in the study of the physical or biological or sociological world. Courses include Introduction to Differential Equations, Several-Variable Calculus, Elementary Linear Algebra, Introduction to Numerical Analysis, and Mathematical Modeling.
- Pure mathematics focuses on the study and development of mathematic principles for their own sake rather than for their immediate usefulness. This track is designed to prepare students for graduate studies. Courses include Geometries from an Advanced Viewpoint, Introduction to Topology, Linear Algebra, Introduction to Abstract Algebra, and Mathematical Statistics.
- Secondary teaching prepares students to teach math in secondary institutions. Courses include Elementary Analysis, Number Theory, Elementary Linear Algebra, and Fundamentals of Abstract Algebra.
- Design your own allows students to create their own course of study by taking both applied mathematics and pure mathematics courses.
- Macs combines elements of the mathematics and computer and information science majors as an alternative to the undergraduate degree programs in either field. It is designed for students who want knowledge in both fields but who are not ready to specialize in either.
Hands On Learning
As early as sophomore year, exemplary math students have the opportunity to become undergraduate teaching assistants in lower-level mathematics courses for non-majors. The teaching assistants earn an hourly wage, but most importantly they learn to be comfortable in front of a classroom, and how to articulate their knowledge in a way that other students can understand.
Interdisciplinary Opportunities
The Mathematics Department provides basic mathematical and statistical training for students in the social, biological, and physical sciences. Proficiency in mathematics and/or computer science is required for a bachelor of science degree at the university.
Several departments—including biology, chemistry, physics, and computer and information science—require mathematics and statistics courses as a part of their curricula. The anthropology, sociology, and psychology departments often require statistical analysis. People working in these fields use math skills to calculate percentages, and compute and analyze data.
Students majoring in mathematics find their studies highly compatible with physics, economics, and computer science. Majors fulfilling the applied mathematics option are learning how to use math as a tool to comprehend phenomena in other disciplines. Other students compliment their math courses with courses in education and architecture.