Mathematics (BA)
A strong mathematic foundation with the flexibility of a BA degree
The Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics gives you a sound education in modern mathematics and its applications. The degree serves a variety of purposes: It maintains a vigorous and flexible program for mathematic majors; it provides the necessary mathematical foundations for engineering, science, and education students; and it offers an introduction to modern quantitative methods for students of management, economics, and the social sciences.
Bachelor of Arts major in Mathematics:
- MATH 151 Calculus I
- MATH 152 Calculus II
- MATH 253 Calculus III
- MATH 271 Differential Equations
- MATH 281 Foundations of Higher Mathematics
- MATH 371 Linear Algebra
- MATH 481 Modern Algebra
- MATH 491 Advanced Calculus
- plus 6 credit hours in mathematics courses numbered above 240
Most students follow one of these three options:
Business Option
The Business Option is for students preparing for a mathematics-oriented career in the business world. This option emphasizes statistical and decision-making techniques. Students are encouraged to take various business courses as electives, along with the following mathematics courses:
- MATH 351 Introduction to Operations Research
- MATH 381 Mathematical Statistics
Scientific Option
The Scientific Option emphasizes the application of mathematics to the physical sciences. Interested students are advised to take science courses, such as physics, as electives, as well as the following mathematics courses:
- MATH 381 Mathematical Statistics
- MATH 401 Advanced Engineering Mathematics
Middle Childhood/Adolescence Education Option
This option is for students who plan a middle school or high school teaching career. In addition to the required Education program, students must take:
- MATH 381 Mathematical Statistics
- MATH 461 Geometry
In addition to fulfilling the requirements of the Interdepartmental Major, as well as the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences general education requirements, you'll be required to complete the College's First Year Experience Program or Transfer Student Program.
The minor in mathematics requires 22 credit hours of mathematics courses numbered 151 and above. It must include MATH 151, 152, and 253. At most two credits of independent study may be applied toward the mathematics minor. Courses should be selected in consultation with the mathematics minor advisor.
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in Mathematics qualify for a wide range of positions in business, industry, government and education. Companies in the computer and communications industries employ many mathematicians as do all kinds of companies, banks, insurance companies and consulting firms. Many bureaus and branches of the federal government employ mathematicians, including the Department of Health and Human Services, the General Accounting Office, Department of Energy, Department of Defense, the National Aeronautics Space Administration and the National Security Agency.
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