Program
The mathematics programs provide a rigorous introduction to the central ideas of algebra and analysis, complemented with electives of direct interest to students who intend to pursue careers in actuarial science, data analysis, finance, higher education, management, secondary education, and many other fields in which mathematical techniques are used or taught. Students who have pursued less mathematics-centered careers, like law and medicine, have found that the mathematician’s habits of logical thought and careful abstraction are valuable there, too. Small upper-level classes, seminars, and independent study and research projects give mathematics students the opportunity to study particularly interesting topics in depth.
Requirements for the Major
The Mathematics Department administers three majors: A.B. in mathematics, B.S. in mathematics, and A.B. joint major in mathematics and economics. Requirements for these majors, in addition to the Common Course of Study, are listed below. Bachelor of arts in mathematics: Mathematics 161, 162, 263, 290, 300, 351, 356, and three elective courses in mathematics numbered 300 or higher (Mathematics 264 or 282 may replace one 300-level elective). Recommended courses: Computational Methods 151 or Computer Science 104, 105, and 106 or Mathematics 400. Bachelor of science in mathematics: Mathematics 161, 162, 263, 290, 300, 351, 356, 400 or 496 and five elective courses in mathematics numbered 300 or higher (Mathematics 264 or 282 may replace one 300-level elective; at least one 300-level elective must have Mathematics 351 or 356 as a prerequisite); Physics 131 or 151; Physics 132, 133, or 152; and Computer Science 104, 105, and 106 or Computational Methods 151. Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Economics: See Mathematics and Economics
Requirements for the Minor
Mathematics 161, 162, 263 plus three mathematics courses numbered higher than 263, including at least two numbered 300 or higher. Normally, independent study courses may not be used toward satisfying the requirements for the minor.
