Mathematics Major

For a 51-credit major in mathematics, students complete the following:

CPSC 1101Introduction to Computing 13
MATH 1171Calculus I4
MATH 1172Calculus II4
MATH 2231Discrete Mathematics3
MATH 2235Linear Algebra3
MATH 2273Multivariable Calculus4
MATH 3336Abstract Algebra3
MATH 3371Real Analysis3
Select six 3000-level mathematics electives18
Select two semesters of a laboratory science 26
Mathematics Capstone 3
Total Credits51
1

An equivalent course may be substituted. Students who can demonstrate proficiency in a computer programming language can have this requirement waived by the department chair.

2

Although physics is the usual science taken by majors in mathematics, another laboratory science may be substituted with permission of the chair.

3

All mathematics majors must complete a two-part Capstone Experience consisting of completion of the Senior Comprehensive Exam in Mathematics in the spring of their senior year and attendance at five or more Mathematics Department Colloquia (or equivalent) in their junior and senior years. Results are noted on the transcript as follows: Senior Comprehensive Exam in Mathematics “Passed with Distinction” or “Passed” or “Failed”; Capstone Experience in Mathematics: “Completed” or “Not Completed.”

Students who wish to double major in mathematics and another area are encouraged to meet with the chairs of the respective departments so that appropriate modifications to the requirements can be made to allow these students to graduate in four years. Popular double majors with mathematics include computer science, economics, and physics.

Mathematics majors are required to have a graphing calculator at least as powerful as a TI-84.

Honors Seminar

Students who take the MATH 4391 or MATH 4392 Honors Seminar receive three credits for one of their mathematics electives upon completion of one semester of MATH 4391 or MATH 4392. Students who complete both MATH 4391 and MATH 4392 earn six credits: the first semester counts as a 3-credit mathematics elective, while the second counts as a 3-credit free elective.

Students Interested in Teaching Mathematics in High School or Middle School

Students planning a career in secondary education should consult with the department chair, and with the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions, as early as possible. Consult the catalog section for the Program in Education for information concerning requirements for the Five-Year Integrated Bachelor's and Master's Degree program in Secondary Education with Initial 7-12 Certification.

The curriculum given below represents a typical option for completing the major in mathematics.

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallCredits
CPSC 1101 Introduction to Computing 3
MATH 1171 Calculus I 4
Other Courses 9
 Credits16
Spring
MATH 1172 Calculus II 4
Other Courses 12
 Credits16
Second Year
Fall
MATH 2231 Discrete Mathematics 3
MATH 2273 Multivariable Calculus 4
Other Courses 9
 Credits16
Spring
MATH 2235 Linear Algebra 3
Math Elective 3
Other Courses 9
 Credits15
Third Year
Fall
MATH 3336 Abstract Algebra 3
MATH 3371 Real Analysis 3
Laboratory Science 4
Other Courses 6
 Credits16
Spring
Math Electives 6
Laboratory Science 4
Other Courses 6
 Credits16
Fourth Year
Fall
Math Electives 6
Other Courses 9
 Credits15
Spring
Math Elective 3
Other Courses 9
Mathematics Comprehensive Exam 0
 Credits12
 Total Credits122