Mathematics, as Galileo said, is the language in which the universe is written. It is a subject of great beauty, utility, and scope that is not only fundamental to all other disciplines in STEM but fascinating in its own right. Exploring mathematics in its many forms within a community of like-minded peers fosters creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, thereby equipping students with tools to succeed in a wide range of settings. Undergraduate students majoring in Mathematics benefit from a unique curriculum that leverages the research strengths of the department and offers great flexibility.

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program offers a broad background in mathematics appropriate for students planning to pursue a career in industry while providing the depth and rigor required for graduate studies in mathematics or related fields. Students majoring in Mathematics may concentrate their studies in one of several areas, including pure mathematics, data science, and computational algebra. Moreover, the program gives students ample opportunities to pursue their interests, in particular through its research spine, a sequence of courses integrated into each year of the curriculum that gives all students the opportunity to conduct original mathematical research.

Areas of Concentration

• Pure Mathematics

• Data Science

• Computational Algebra

Mathematics Research Spine

• First Year: MA 188 (Seminar in Mathematical Sciences)

  • Students gain exposure to the research interests of math faculty and explore a mathematical topic or problem with peers.

• Sophomore Year: MA 240 (Proofs and Refutations)

  • Students receive extensive training in writing mathematical proofs at a high level of quality and rigor, learn the mathematical typesetting software LaTeX, and write a paper on a mathematical theorem.

• Junior Year: MA 398 (Introduction to Mathematical Research)

  • Students learn about key elements of conducting mathematical research, including formulating a research problem and navigating published literature, and collaborate on a mini research project.

• Senior Year: MA 498 (Senior Research Project I)

  • Students work individually or as part of a team to conduct an original research project in an area of mathematics of interest to them under the supervision of a math faculty member. The results of the project are disseminated via a research report and a presentation, e.g. at the annual Innovation Expo. Students wishing to pursue a full year of senior research may continue with the course MA 499 (Senior Research Project II).

• Graduates choosing academic careers in mathematics are successful as Ph.D. candidates in internationally recognized programs in mathematics or related fields.

• Graduates find rewarding careers where they are able to apply their knowledge and skills in the mathematical sciences to solving problems in mathematics, science, engineering, business, and education.

• Graduates demonstrate strong teamwork and leadership skills in solving complex mathematical and multidisciplinary problems.

• Graduates employ a variety of technologies and computational platforms to assist in solving and understanding mathematical problems.

• Graduates participate in the activities of professional organizations relevant to their chosen field.

Student Outcomes

• Mathematics Foundations: Graduates will understand important definitions and theorems across core branches of mathematics, including calculus, linear algebra, abstract algebra, probability and statistics, and analysis.

• Comprehension and Analysis: Graduates will be able to explain and restate theorems, concepts, and methods in different contexts, and recognize which results are relevant to various situations.

• Applications: Graduates will be able to apply mathematical reasoning, theories, and techniques to analyze and solve problems in mathematics, science, engineering, and business.

• Synthesis: Graduates will be able to construct complex mathematical arguments from previously acquired knowledge, and bring together knowledge from different areas of mathematics to analyze and solve mathematical problems.

• Computation: Graduates will have basic knowledge in the theory of computation and data structures, be familiar with commonly used algorithms in computational mathematics, and proficient in at least one programming language or computational platform.

• Modeling: Graduates will understand common models used in the applied sciences and be experienced in constructing mathematical and numerical models.

• Communication: Graduates will be able to communicate effectively and persuasively when presenting technical results.

• Professionalism: Graduates will recognize and achieve high levels of professionalism in their work.

• Teamwork: Graduates will be able to function effectively on multidisciplinary teams.

• Lifelong Learning: Graduates will recognize the need for and have the ability to engage in lifelong learning and development through further education and participation in professional organizations.