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:

  1. Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
  2. Ethics Intensive
  3. Writing Intensive, and
  4. 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

Mathematics
MAT 161Calculus I4
Natural Science
PHY 105University Physics I3
PHY 105LUniversity Physics Lab I1

General Education Overlays

See this page about Overlays.

General Education Integrative Learning Component

See this page about Integrative Learning Component. Three courses:

CSC 120Computer Science I4
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

MAT 162Calculus II4
MAT 213Calculus III4
MAT 250Fundamentals of Mathematics3
MAT 226Introduction to Linear Algebra3
MAT 403Abstract Algebra3
MAT 409Real Analysis3
Any SIX additional “math elective” courses, which include all MAT, DSC and ASC courses above the level of 200.18
Total Hours38

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).

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:

  1. Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
  2. Ethics Intensive
  3. Writing Intensive, and
  4. 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

General Education Overlays

See this page about Overlays.

General Education Integrative Learning Component

See this page about Integrative Learning Component. Three courses:

SPE 160Intro to Special Edu w/Field3
SPE 205Inclusive Classrooms w/ Field3
CSC 120Computer Science I4
or CSC 115 Intro to Computer Science
Mathematics Major Requirements
MAT 162Calculus II4
MAT 213Calculus III4
MAT 250Fundamentals of Mathematics3
MAT 226Introduction to Linear Algebra3
MAT 403Abstract Algebra3
MAT 409Real Analysis3
Five additional Math Electives15
Options include all MAT and ASC courses above the level of 180, MED 551, 554, 559, independent study/research and internships.
Education Major Requirements
EDU 150Schools in Society w/ Field3
EDU 157Adolescent Development w/Field3
EDU 230Eval: Secondary Grades 7-123
EDU 246Language and Culture w/ Field3
EDU 247Literacy in Cont Areas w/Field3
EDU 416Instr Techniq Math w/Field3
EDU 491Secondary Student Teaching12
SPE 160Intro to Special Edu w/Field3
SPE 205Inclusive Classrooms w/ Field3
Total Hours71