Mathematics, B.S.
Curriculum
A total of 11 courses, as well as two semesters of Honors Calculus, are needed to complete the mathematics major.
Through one-on-one faculty advising, we will help you plot a path through the major based on your beginning level of preparation and interests. Areas of focus are pure mathematics; applied mathematics, including mathematical biology and statistics; actuarial science; and teacher preparation.
You will take: 4 core courses (MATH 130, MATH 131, MATH 172 and MATH 225) and 7 elective courses. At least 5 elective courses must be at the 200-level, and one of them must be taken from among the following list of courses in analysis:
- MATH 216 (Functions of a Complex Variable)
- MATH 240 (Functional Analysis)
- MATH 242 (Measure Theory)
- MATH 245 (Introduction to Partial Differential Equations)
Capstone
A capstone course taken during your senior year is required. This offers an opportunity to delve into advanced mathematics, building on the foundations laid by your major. There are three ways to meet the capstone requirement:
A. Doing an honors thesis.
B. Taking one of the following eight advanced 200-level electives, classified by topic and to be chosen by the student after consultation with their advisor:
Fulfilling the capstone via probability theory:
- MATH 218 (Topics in Statistics)
- MATH 220 (Markov Chains: Theory, Applications, and Algorithms)
- MATH 221 (Stochastic Processes)
Fulfilling the capstone via topology & geometry:
- MATH 228 (Topology)
- MATH 230 (Differential Geometry)
Fulfilling the capstone via analysis:
- MATH 216 (Functions of a Complex Variable)
- MATH 240 (Functional Analysis)
- MATH 242 (Measure Theory)
- MATH 245 (Intro to Partial Differential Equations)
The capstone in analysis cannot also double count toward the analysis requirement above; i.e., it cannot be used to simultaneously fulfill the analysis requirement. Thus, if a student chooses to satisfy their analysis requirement in their senior year by taking, e.g., MATH 216, and if they wish to also fulfill their capstone via analysis, then they must choose either MATH 240, 242, or 245 to do so.
C. Doing a directed study. Under exceptional circumstances, for students who are unable to meet the capstone requirements through (A) or (B), special arrangements can be made for individually directed research work.
Featured Courses
Markov Chains: Theory, Application and Algorithms
Stochastic processes use randomness to model dynamics of events in fields like the physical and social sciences, finance and business. Study their properties and implement them in code.
Differential Geometry
Describe spaces like surfaces, curves, and manifolds using this branch of mathematics that draws on advanced techniques in calculus and algebra, and has applications in physics, architecture, and economics.
Linear Models
Research often relies on linear regression to predict the relationship between one or more variables and a response. Use real-world examples to explore and model applications of this statistical technique.
