+ Mathematics

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 Sphere-Packing Conjecture, Fermat's Last Theorem, and the Map Coloring 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.
  

Majors or minors
Students may complete a bachelor of arts degree with a major, second major or minor in mathematics by completing the degree requirements for the B.A. degree and the requirements for a major or minor in mathematics listed under the bachelor of science degree. This policy also applies to specializations in applied mathematics and actuarial science, to the statistics major, and to the minor in statistics.

Major, Bachelor of Science—minor required (34 hours)

• MATH 131, 232, 233, 322, 332, 337, 403 (25)
• MATH 434 or 465 (3)
• At least two additional 300- or 400-level MATH electives* (6). These electives must be chosen so that two courses are completed from any group**:
  • MATH 401, 403, 404, 432
  • MATH 313, 421
  • MATH 434, 439, 461, 465, 466
  • MATH 441, 442, 445, 447
  • MATH 451, 452
  • MATH 426, 427

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 (31-37 hours)
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.

• CS 101
• PHYS 211-212
• MATH 131, 232, 233, 322, 332, 337, 432, 441 (28)
• MATH 434 or 465 (3),
• MATH 451 or CS 451 (3)
  

Plus one course from the following (3)**:

• MATH 437, 439, 442, 445, 447, 452
• CS 452

Actuarial Science—no minor required
(40 hours)
This specialization is intended for students interested in a career as an insurance or pension actuary. It requires the following courses:

• MATH 131, 232, 233, 322, 332, 432, 425, 426, 427, 441, 442 (37)
• MATH 445 (3)
• CS 101; STAT 402; STAT 416; ECON 202, 203; ACCT 221; FIN 320

Suggested electives for this program are ACCT 222; FIN 350

Suggested schedule

• First year
  
  • Fall—MATH 131, CS 101
  • Spring—MATH 232
• Second year
  
  • Fall—MATH 233, 332; ECON 202
  • Spring—ECON 203; MATH 322; MATH 425 (even years)
• Third year
  
  • Fall—MATH 441
  • Spring—MATH 442, 432, MATH 445 (odd years); ACCT 221
• Fourth year
  
  • Fall—MATH 426; FIN 320; STAT 402
  • Spring—MATH 427; STAT 416

Arrangements have been made to waive the stated prerequisites to FIN 320. The economics courses may be counted toward the social sciences requirement. It is essential that students consult with the program adviser on a regular basis.

Minor (22 hours)

• MATH 131, 232, 233, 332 (16 hours)
• Two electives at the 300 or 400 level* (6)

Core program
The following is recommended for majors and minors in mathematics and statistics:

• First year
  
  • MATH 131, 232 (10)
• Second year
  
  • MATH 233, 322 and 332 and/or 337 (9-12)

*except MATH 395, 414, 470, 489, 495
**some of these courses may not be offered every year

Other programs
A program in mathematics also is offered by the College of Education and Human Development.