Mathematics Major

All science-related disciplines rely on the fundamental language of mathematics. Many biological and medical phenomena can be studied mathematically or have substantial quantitative components. Mathematical areas, such as combinatorics, graph theory, differential equations, and statistics, are being applied to the problem of genetic mapping. Differential geometry and topology are currently being used to study the basic physical and chemical properties of DNA. Mathematical modeling of the heart enabled researchers to understand why ventricular fibrillation occurs.

The beauty of mathematics can also be found in non-science areas as well. Fibonacci sequences can be found in art and music. Topics from geometry, trigonometry, and algebra can be found in architecture. Fractals can be seen in nature.

Goal 1: Students will gain a general knowledge of the main areas of mathematics.

Outcome 1.1: Students will apply the concepts of calculus and linear algebra as well as fundamental principles of mathematics reasoning, arguments, and proofs.

Outcome 1.2: Students will prove statements related to real analysis and abstract algebra.

Goal 2: Students will develop specific skills in mathematics.

Outcome 2.1: Students will perform computations, identify the appropriate method to solve a specific mathematical problem, and apply an appropriate proof technique to prove a specific mathematical statement.

Outcome 2.2: Students will use modeling techniques required for successful application of mathematics.

The traditional undergraduate programs includes a minimum of 120 credits distributed across three components: A General Education component divided into Signature Courses, Variable Courses, and an Integrative Learning requirement; a Major and Divisional component; and Free Electives. In addition to course requirements as specified in each area, students must complete one certified course in each of the following overlay areas¹:

Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
Ethics Intensive
Writing Intensive, and
Diversity

¹: Overlay requirements are part of the 120 credit requirements

General Education Signature Courses

See this page about Signature courses.

General Education Variable Courses

See this page about Variable courses. Six to Nine courses

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Mathematics
MAT 161	Calculus I	4
Natural Science
PHY 105	University Physics I	3
PHY 105L	University Physics Lab I	1

General Education Overlays

See this page about Overlays.

General Education Integrative Learning Component

See this page about Integrative Learning Component. Three courses:

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
CSC 120	Computer Science I	4
or CSC 115	Intro to Computer Science
or CSC 133	Python Programming for All
Courses automatically approved as fulfilling this requirement include: all ASC, ECN and CSC courses and also all BIO, CHM and PHY courses. Courses outside of this list require Advisor and Chair approval to count as fulfilling this requirement.		6

Major Requirements

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
MAT 162	Calculus II	4
MAT 213	Calculus III	4
MAT 250	Fundamentals of Mathematics	3
MAT 226	Introduction to Linear Algebra	3
MAT 403	Abstract Algebra	3
MAT 409	Real Analysis	3
Any SIX additional “math elective” courses, which include all MAT, DSC and ASC courses above the level of 200.		18
Total Hours		38

Free Electives

Seven courses

Students who are pursuing Secondary Teacher Certification in Mathematics (and who do not want to pursue a graduate degree) double major in Mathematics and Secondary Education. Their primary major is Mathematics. If they complete their student teaching during their senior year, they are exempt from one of the mathematics elective courses required for the Mathematics major.

Below is the required program coursework for students to be eligible for a PA Level I Teaching Certificate in Secondary Education (Math).

Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
Ethics Intensive
Writing Intensive, and
Diversity

¹: Overlay requirements are part of the 120 credit requirements