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Mathematics Minor

About Mathematics Minor more

Students in the Mathematics major and minor get a balanced mix of classical and modern mathematics and acquire a strong foundation in conventional math theory and problem-solving techniques. They learn to use technology such as computer algebra systems, geometry modeling software, spreadsheets and computer programming to aid in modeling and investigating problems. Students also learn to communicate their mathematical ideas clearly and professionally in written and oral formats.

The Mathematics department has a challenging curriculum with an abundance of support to encourage students to grow as mathematicians and leaders. Students have many opportunities to hone their leadership skills by working as graders and tutors in the department or through involvement with the Tri Pi Math Club that hosts Game Night and Math Day, a competition for local high schools.

Students who find fulfillment in this area of study typically enjoy analytical thinking and want to continue to increase their critical thinking, problem-solving and quantitative reasoning skills. Students often major or minor in mathematics to supplement a wide variety of other majors and minors that can benefit from the analytical reasoning skills developed in this course of study.

Careers in Mathematics more

  • Accountant
  • Actuary
  • Business Manager
  • Catastrophe Analyst
  • College Professor
  • Cryptographer
  • Financial Planner
  • High School Mathematics Teacher
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Inventory Analyst
  • Lawyer
  • Medical Doctor
  • Risk Analyst
  • Statistician
  • Underwriter
Additional education may be required for some careers listed

Faculty & Leadership

Professor, MathematicsChair of Mathematics Department

Success in Mathematics more

Course for Mathematics Minor

CSC-301 Programming & Problem Solving

This course emphasizes structured programming and problem solving techniques as implemented in a high level language. Topics include input and output procedures, control structures and boolean expressions, functions and procedures with parameters, recursion, looping techniques and data structures. (Prerequisite: MAT125 or equivalent)

MAT-110 Intro Probability & Statistics

This course will explore fundamental topics from probability and descriptive and inferential statistics and apply these to a range of areas of study including business, social science, and biology. Topics include probability and counting rules, probability distributions, hypothesis testing, correlation, regression, chi-square, and analysis-of-variance.

MAT-135 Calculus I

This course explores the concepts of limit and continuity, investigates techniques of differentiation and its applications, introduces integration, and provides the framework for the Fundamental Theorem. (Prerequisite: MAT125 or equivalent)

MAT-145 Calculus II

This course is a continuation of MAT135. We explore techniques of integration, introduce differential equations, and apply them to problem situations. Other topics include parametric equations, polar equations, conic sections, sequences, and series. Students will be introduced to a computer algebra system. (Prerequisite: MAT135 or equivalent)

MAT-220 Discrete Mathematics

Topics covered in this course include induction proofs, relations, algorithms, counting methods, and graph theory. (Prerequisite: MAT125 or equivalent)

MAT-230 Probability and Statistics

This is an introductory probability and statistics course designed primarily for math and science students with a Calculus background. Topics covered include descriptive statistics, probability and probability distributions, estimation, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, and analysis of variance. (Prerequisite: MAT135)

MAT-255 Calculus III

This course is a continuation of MAT145. Topics covered include a review of sequences and series, analytic geometry in three-dimensional space, vector calculus, partial differentiation, multiple integration, the Fundamental Theorems, and the related applications. (Prerequisite: MAT145)

MAT-305 Foundations of Geometry

This course provides a systematic survey of Euclidean, hyperbolic, transformation, fractal, and projective geometries. Through the use of technology, the students are better enabled to construct, analyze, and prove. (Prerequisite: MAT125 or equivalent)

MAT-310 Linear Algebra

This course introduces algebraic techniques in vector space. Topics include systems of linear equations, matrices, vector spaces, inner products, linear transformations, and the eigenvalue problem. (Prerequisite: MAT145 or consent of instructor)

MAT-365 Differential Equations

The theory, solutions, techniques, and applications of ordinary differential equations will be discussed. A computer algebra system will be utilized to enhance the experience. Topics include first-order equations, higher order linear equations, and some numerical methods.

MAT-450 Abstract Algebra

This course is a rigorous introduction to abstract algebra. Topics include mappings, groups, equivalence relations, isomorphisms, rings, and fields. (Prerequisite: MAT255 and MAT220)

MAT-460 Foundations of Analysis

This course is a formal treatment of functions of a real variable. It covers the topology of the real line, sequences and series, and classic results in continuity, differentiation, and integration. (Prerequisite: MAT255and MAT220)

MAT-478 Mathematics Seminar

Students in this seminar will explore a variety of exciting mathematics problems. The course will be offered every spring but the topic will vary depending on the interests of the faculty member and the students. Students will sharpen their mathematical abilities by exploring an assortment of problem-solving strategies and clearly presenting generalized solutions. The opened-ended course number allows for more than one such experience.

MAT-488 Independent Study

There are a plethora of topics in mathematics an advanced student could explore such as Difference Equations, Combinatorics, Graph Theory, Chaos Theory, Optimization, Operations Research, or Cryptography to name a few. The opened ended course number allows for more than one such experience. The student will work with a faculty mentor to choose an appropriate course, number of credits, and assessment scheme.

Math Sample Schedule

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