Math Programs
The Department of Mathematics offers three major programs of study: Mathematics (MATH), Actuarial Science, and Mathematics with Secondary Education (MATH/SED). The department also offers a minor program of study in Mathematics that will complement many majors at the University, especially majors in business, computer science, education, and science.
Mathematics Major
Students who major in mathematics are prepared for entry into graduate schools and for entry into business and industrial positions which require a bachelor's degree in mathematics; they also fulfill the subject area requirements for teaching mathematics in the secondary school. Courses in computer science, natural science, physics and business may be elected to complement the major in mathematics. Students majoring in mathematics have the choice of a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of Science degree.
Actuarial Science Major
Actuaries are in great demand in many settings, such as insurance, pension plans, hedge funds, banks, and other financial institutions where their main task is managing risk and evaluating decisions involving risk. Being an Actuary has rated in the top three jobs in the United States for a number of years due to dynamic working conditions, opportunity for advancement, and job availability. To be an Actuary one needs to possess high-end math skills, technical skills in finance, communicate effectively verbally and in writing, and work well in groups or teams. Students majoring in Actuarial Science will earn a Bachelor of Science degree which will lead to preparation for the first two Society of Actuaries exams (P-probability, and FM-financial mathematics).
Mathematics with Secondary Education Major
Students seeking to teach mathematics at the secondary (9-12) level, should pursue a Mathematics with Secondary Education (Math/SED) major. Accordingly, students in that major must fulfill both the requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and the requirements for licensure to teach secondary mathematics. Math/SED majors have the option to earn either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree. However, in light of the nature of the mathematics content requirements that prospective secondary mathematics teachers must satisfy, the department strongly recommends that such degree candidates pursue the Bachelor of Science degree.
Mathematics Minor
A minor in Mathematics is a desirable counterpart to most majors, especially those majors where quantitative understanding is desirable. A minimum of 18 credit hours is required at the 200-level or above.
