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Mathematics

Professor Jeff Bay, Chair, Division of Mathematics and Computer Science and Coordinator

The importance of mathematics to the educated person has been established since the Middle Ages, when arithmetic and geometry were recognized as two of the seven liberal arts constituting the traditional course of study at a university. Mathematics is even more vital to liberal education today, when every citizen must be equipped with the quantitative skills needed to navigate our technological and data-driven world. The increasing demand for well-trained professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields is well- documented, and all of these require knowledge of mathematics.

The curriculum in mathematics develops a student’s ability to think analytically and construct logical arguments, building a foundation to support advanced study in mathematics, but also providing a gateway to the expansive, diverse career opportunities in the mathematical sciences. The program provides students a range of experiences in both abstract and applied mathematics, as well as in the partner disciplines of computer science and physics.

Two distinct major programs are offered. The Major in Mathematics provides a broad curriculum for students planning careers which require mathematical skill and problem-solving ability. Students may enter graduate school programs in mathematics, statistics, or related disciplines, or pursue careers in a variety of fields such as actuarial science, biomathematics, operations research, teaching, or finance.

Students successfully completing the program of study will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

  1. Communicate mathematical ideas with precision and clarity in both written and oral form.
  2. Develop expertise in appropriate technology for their desired career paths.
  3. Understand and apply mathematical concepts in both theoretical and applied areas.
  4. Use mathematics to model real-world problems by choosing appropriate mathematical tools, representing the problem abstractly, and obtaining and interpreting results.
  5. Evaluate the correctness and validity of solutions.
  6. Experience the application of mathematics to other disciplines through appropriate related courses.