Undergraduate
Getting Started
Students interested in majoring in mathematics, actuarial mathematics, or applied mathematics should visit the Department of Mathematical Sciences for assignment of a faculty advisor as early as possible in their undergraduate studies. Students may request a particular faculty member for an advisor. Advisors can also be changed at the request of the student. The advisors help the students choose the appropriate programs according to their goals, needs and interests; help plan short-range and long range schedules for coursework, including proper sequencing of courses; provide information on the scheduling of courses; provide information on careers; keep a record of each student's progress in completing a particular program; and make referrals to other campus offices for help when necessary. The Department of Mathematical Sciences feels strongly that regular contact with a faculty advisor is important. The departmental advising system plays a valuable role in helping the student plan a course of study and in enhancing the quality of the student's educational experience. Mathematics majors are expected to visit advisors at least once each semester, prior to registering for courses for the next semester.
Advance schedules of courses, rotation of course information, announcements, documents, employment information, and general information can be found throughout this website.
Pure Mathematics, Actuarial Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics
At ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, the primary concern is the student. The Department of Mathematical Sciences reflects this concern through its efforts to provide the academic atmosphere and close student-faculty associations which encourage intellectual growth and development. Programs are designed to broaden students’ perspectives and to help them realize their potential. ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø offers courses in mathematics (pure and applied), actuarial mathematics, computer science, statistics, and mathematics for teachers. A student may concentrate in one area or combine coursework from several areas. Programs allow a student to prepare for graduate study, for high school teaching, or for employment in industry. An undergraduate specializing in mathematics will begin with calculus and introduction to computing, although some students will require college algebra and trigonometry. Well-prepared students are encouraged to establish credit in elementary courses by passing advanced standing examinations. All majors take courses in calculus, computer science, and linear algebra.
Preparation for a Mathematics Career
Students interested in careers as mathematicians should pursue either the Mathematics Program, Actuarial Mathematics Program, or the Applied Mathematics Program. The Mathematics Program is strongly recommended for students considering graduate study in mathematics. The Actuarial Mathematics Program prepares students for a career as an actuary in insurance, financial services, and related industries. The Applied Mathematics Program is flexible and designed to suit the needs of students interested in a career in industry and government or in postgraduate study in applied mathematics or other scientific areas.
It is strongly recommended that all students who may wish to continue to graduate school take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) early in their senior year. This exam is a requirement for almost all graduate programs. Taking the exam while your course work is fresh in your memory will help keep your options for graduate work open.
Preparation for a Teaching Career
Students interested in high school teaching may pursue either the Bachelor of Science or Arts in the College of Arts and Sciences, majoring in one of the mathematical sciences with a minor in secondary education or the Bachelor of Science in Education, with a major or minor in mathematics. Either of these programs leads to teacher certification in the state of Ohio.
Job Opportunities
A degree in the mathematical sciences can lead to various careers in education, industry, and government. Because of the skill in reasoning developed by mathematical training, a degree in mathematics is a positive asset when applying for many positions. The American Mathematical Society provides an excellent summary of different types of jobs which use mathematics, including approximate salaries and educational requirements. The Career Services Center can provide students with many valuable resources including help with finding on and off campus student employment.