Mathematics

Faculty

Chair: Professor George Ashline
Professors: Joanna Ellis-Monaghan, Jim Hefferon, Zsuzsanna Kadas, Lloyd Simons
Assistant Professor: Philip Yates
Instructor: Krisan Geary

For centuries mathematics has been the foundation and language of the physical sciences. In our time, mathematical models and tools have come to pervade the biological and social sciences as well. Mathematics is an art, apprehending and creating structure and order in the universe. Mathematics is intellectually stimulating because it demands clarity and precision. Consequently, the Mathematics Department believes that some understanding of mathematics will enhance the study of every discipline, and offers courses at a variety of levels to help all students develop their skill in mathematical reasoning.

The major is designed to encompass diverse goals ranging from applied work in science or industry to teaching or graduate study. The required courses provide a strong foundation in the principle areas of mathematics; the electives offer an opportunity to tailor the program to individual needs. Students should consult an advisor in the Mathematics Department to design a program consistent with their aims.

Mathematics majors are attractive to a wide variety of business and industrial firms, especially if the major is combined with some coursework in computer science, a natural science, economics or business; many find work in the actuarial field or as analysts in the computer or communications industry. Mathematics majors may prepare to teach at the secondary school level by simultaneously completing education courses, including a semester of student teaching, which leads to state certification.

The mathematics major provides the background for graduate study in pure or applied mathematics, statistics or (with some course work in biology) biostatistics. Combined with appropriate courses in other areas, the major may also be used to prepare for professional programs such as medical school, law school or an MBA program.