The Core is an opportunity to inquire into the fundamental aspects of being and our relationship with God, nature and our fellow human beings.
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The purpose of the major is to immerse students in the content and methodology of mathematics as it is practiced by active mathematicians. The basic requirements in the major introduce the central ideas of the discipline. Electives within the major permit students to pursue further areas of special interest.
The course in Linear Point Set Theory is an important bridge into the major. In it students begin the immersion into the mathematical process, and the foundation is built for later work in Algebra, Analysis, Topology, and other courses. Linear Point Set Theory, along with Abstract Algebra and Analysis, highlight methods of proof, raising and settling of questions, developing precise definitions of concepts, and thinking and writing concisely in mathematical terms. Students who immerse themselves in these mathematical ideas are able to approach the other courses in the major with the perspective of the working mathematician.
Mathematical concepts have a profound influence on the world outside of mathematics. Equally important, the world external to mathematics has helped shape the discipline. It is important for majors to experience this interaction and to see the power and limitations of mathematics. Courses such as Calculus I, II, and III, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Probability, Statistics, Numerical Analysis, and Introduction to Computer Science as well as the physics requirement aid in the development of this perspective.
A major in mathematics opens many doors. Majors go on to graduate work in fields such as mathematics, computer science, statistics, physics, economics, or biology. They pursue careers in business, actuarial science, linguistics, medicine, law, and teaching. Most importantly, the major allows the budding mathematician to see the world in a creative, beautiful, and profound way.
Mathematics:
1404,1411, 2412 (Calculus I, II, III)3159 (Junior Workshop)3310 (Linear Algebra)3321 (Linear Point Set Theory)4332 (Abstract Algebra I)4341 (Analysis I)4333 or 4342 (Abstract Algebra II or Analysis II)one of 3324, 3326, 3338 or 4315; (Differential Equations, Probability, Numerical Analysis, or Applied Mathematics)Three credits at any level; and six credits in courses numbered 3000 or above including advanced courses in computer science (only six hours of computer science may count toward the major); participation in 2107, 3107, 3190, and 3V50 (Mathematics Colloquium, Problem Solving, and Special Topics) as often as it is offered is encouraged.
Physics: 2311-2111, 2312-2112 (General Physics I, II, Calculus based)
Twelve additional advanced hours in mathematics are required including 4315; 4333 or 4342, excluding the choice for the B.A.; and 4V43 (Research).
A comprehensive exam is required of all majors in their final year. It is administered by the mathematics faculty and covers all required courses for the B.A. or B.S. degree. The exam is offered once in the fall semester and twice in the spring semester.
The comprehensive exam consists of a written section covering four major disciplinary areas: Abstract Algebra, Real Analysis, Pure Math, and Applied Math. A score of 70% or better qualifies the student to procede to the oral examination.The oral section of the comprehensive exam is intended to further explore the students' understanding of mathematics, their facility with the concepts and processes of mathematical thought, their approach to problems using the mathematical tools they have been given, and their ability to communicate their thoughts and ideas.
The following is a representative sequence of the courses to be taken by students in the mathematics major.
All students of the University are urged to seek advice from the Department concerning selection of courses and placement. A placement exam is required of students wishing to enroll in 1000 or 2000 level courses except 1301. Students considering a major in mathematics should consult with the Department as soon as possible. A faculty member can suggest courses that may help students decide.
Students need to be registered in order to take the math placement exam. Please contact Dr. Paul Phillips by email if you need help with registration.
