Major and Minor
Suggestions for Majoring in Mathematics
Students wishing to keep open the option of a major in mathematics typically begin with the study of calculus in their first year and normally complete the calculus sequence, MATH 222 (Foundations of Analysis) and either MATH 118 or MATH 106 by the end of the sophomore year. A major is usually declared no later than the second semester of the sophomore year. Those considering a mathematics major should consult with a member of the mathematics department in order to plan their course of study.
The requirements for the major are minimal. Anyone who is planning a career in the mathematical sciences, or who intends to read for honors, is encouraged to consult with one or more members of the department concerning further studies that would be appropriate. Similarly, any student who wishes to propose a variation of the major program is encouraged to discuss the plan with a member of the department prior to submitting a written proposal for a decision by the department.
Students who are interested in teaching mathematics at the high-school level should take MATH 230 (Geometry) and MATH 335 (Abstract Algebra I), since these courses are required for certification in most states, including Ohio.
Course Requirements for Majors
There are two concentrations within the mathematics major: classical mathematics and statistics. The coursework required for completion of the major in each concentration is given below.
Classical Mathematics
A student must have credit for the following core courses:
- Three semesters of calculus (MATH 111, 112, 213, or the equivalent)
- One semester of statistics (MATH 106 or MATH 436)
- MATH 118 - Introduction to Programming
- MATH 222 - Foundations
- MATH 224 - Linear Algebra I
- MATH 335 - Abstract Algebra Ior MATH 341 - Real Analysis I
In addition, majors must have credit for at least three other elective courses selected with the consent of the department. MATH 110 may not be used to satisfy the requirements for the major.
Statistics
A student must have credit for the following core courses:
- Three semesters of calculus (MATH 111, 112, 213 or the equivalent)
- MATH 118 - Introduction to Programming
- MATH 222 - Foundations
- MATH 224 - Linear Algebra I
- MATH 336 - Probability
- MATH 341 - Real Analysis I
- MATH 416 - Linear Regression Models or MATH 436 - Mathematical Statistics
In addition to the core courses, majors must also have credit for two elective courses from the following list:
- MATH 106 - Elements of Statistics
- MATH 206 - Data Analysis
- MATH 216 - Nonparametric Statistics
- MATH 226 - Design and Analysis of Experiments
- MATH 236 - Random Structures
- MATH 416 - Linear Regression Models
- MATH 436 - Mathematical Statistics
Applications of Math Requirement
Mathematics is a vital component in the methods used by other disciplines, and the applied math requirement is designed to expose majors to this vitality. There are two ways to
satisfy the requirement:
a) Earn credit for two courses (at least 1 unit) from a single department or program that use mathematics in significant ways. Typically, majors will choose a two-course sequence from the following list; other two-course sequences require Departmental approval:
- PHYS 140/145
- ECON 101/102
- PSYC 200 together with a 400-level Research Methods course (in Psychology)
satisfy the requirement, but other courses (for example, topics courses) may satisfy the requirement with approval from the Department:
- MATH 258 Mathematical Biology
- MATH 347 Mathematical Models
Classical mathematics majors may also use MATH 206, MATH 216, MATH 226, or MATH 416 to satisfy the requirement. Additionally, students choosing this option may not use the applied math course as one of the elective courses required for the major.
Depth Requirement
Majors are expected to attain a depth of study within mathematics, as well as breadth. Therefore majors should earn credit in one of four two-course upper-level sequences:
- MATH 335/435 Abstract Algebra I & II
- MATH 341/441 Real Analysis I & II
- MATH 336/436 Probability and Mathematical Statistics
- MATH 336/416 Probability and Linear Regression Models
Senior Exercise
The Senior Exercise begins promptly in the fall of the senior year with independent study on a topic of interest to the student and approved by the Department. The independent study culminates in the writing of a paper which is due in November. (Juniors are encouraged to begin thinking about possible topics before they leave for the summer.) Students are also required to take the Major Field Test in Mathematics produced by the Educational Testing Service. Evaluation of the Senior Exercise is based on the student's performance on the paper and the standardized exam. A detailed guide on the Senior Exercise is available on the math department Web site under the link "mathematics academic program."
Course Requirements for the Minors
There are two minors in mathematics. Each minor deals with core material of a part of the discipline, and each reflects the logically structured nature of mathematics through a pattern of prerequisites. A minor consists of satisfactory completion of the courses indicated.
Mathematics
The calculus sequence MATH 111, 112, 213, and four courses from the following: MATH 105, 106, 108, 116, 118, 128, 222, 224, 227, 230, 232, 236, 258, 324, 327, 328, 333, 335, 336, 341, 347, 352, 416, 435, 441, 460. (Students may count at most one of the following: MATH 105, 106, 108, 116, 118, and 128.) Other courses numbered 200 or above (e.g. special topics courses) may be counted with the consent of the department.
Statistics
Five courses in statistics from the following: MATH 106 or 116, 206, 216, 226, 236, 336, 416, 436. (Students may count at most one statistics course from another department. For example, ECON 375 or PSYC 200 may be substituted for one of the courses listed above.)
Our goal is to provide a solid introduction to basic statistical methods, including data analysis, design and analysis of experiments, statistical inference, and statistical models, using professional software such as Minitab, SAS, and Maple.
Deviations from the list of approved minor courses must be ratified by the mathematics department. Students considering a minor in mathematics or statistics are urged to speak with a member of the department about the selection of courses.