Mathematics

College of Arts and Sciences

450 Mathematical Sciences, 419-372-2636

Although it is an ancient academic discipline, mathematics is still one of today's most dynamic and influential fields. One aspect of mathematics consists of abstract ideas and challenging problems; recent successes include the proofs of the Poincaré Conjecture, the Sphere-Packing Conjecture, and Fermat's Last Theorem. The other aspect of mathematics is its use in other human endeavors, where its impact is stunning. Mathematics has always been indispensable in commerce, physics, and engineering. In recent years, mathematics has driven developments in telecommunications, medicine, computers, finance, insurance, weather forecasting, car and airplane design, and many more. All of the mathematics courses in the major introduce new ways of thinking and develop discipline in thinking carefully and expressing this thought through problem solutions or carefully written arguments.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in mathematics are expected to:

• Understand what mathematics and statistics are, how they are done, and how they relate to other disciplines;
• Use the language of mathematics and statistics to communicate basic ideas, techniques, and results;
• Objectively and critically evaluate information and assess performance, using mathematical ideas;
• Demonstrate appreciation for the beauty, utility, and impact of mathematics and statistics;
• Apply mathematical problem-solving techniques in novel situations;
• Use appropriate technology to attack a wide variety of mathematical tasks successfully.

Major, Bachelor of Arts (35 hours) - minor required - Fall 2014 course requirements

Major, Bachelor of Science (35 hours) - minor required - Fall 2014 course requirements

To graduate with a major in mathematics, a grade point average of 2.0 or better is required in those courses used to meet the requirements for the major.

Applied Mathematics (38 hours) - minor required - Fall 2014 course requirements

This specialization emphasizes the scientific computing and modeling aspects of applied mathematics. The minimum grade point average in specialization courses is 2.0. A minor or double major in computer science or physics is recommended.

Actuarial Science (61 - 62 hours) - no minor required - Fall 2014 course requirements

This specialization is only available in the B.S. degree. This specialization is intended for students interested in a career as an insurance or pension actuary.

Minor (22 - 23 hours)

• MATH 1310, 2320 (10)
• MATH 2330 or 2350, 3220, and 3320 and/or 3370 (9 - 12)

* Except MATH 3950, 4150, 4170, 4700, 4890, 4950

Other programs
Programs in mathematics education at the secondary and middle childhood levels are offered by the College of Education and Human Development.