Mathematics introduces students to mathematical abstraction and how it can be used to solve practical problems. Courses in Mathematics promote development of the basic mathematical foundations necessary to support study in all majors. Mathematics courses are designed to promote intuitive thought and provide experience with problem solving using technology. Students are given the opportunity to access difficult ideas through multiple modes of instruction. A major in Mathematics provides students a strong foundation for careers in secondary mathematics teaching, actuarial science, business and research, as well as for further studies in mathematics and other disciplines.
Freshman Mathematics majors are encouraged to explore augmenting their major with one or more of the following:
A minimum grade of C- is required in any course that serves as a prerequisite for a higher-numbered course.
Students who have successfully completed MA 140, 141, 142, 181, 182, or 221 may not subsequently register for a lower-numbered course in this sequence.
Liberal Arts Core requirements: All Liberal Arts Core requirements must be fulfilled. It is recommended that students work with an advisor to ensure compliance.
Major requirements (50 credits): MA 150 Discrete Mathematics; MA 181-182 Calculus I & II; MA 221 Calculus III; MA 215 Linear Algebra; MA 225 Differential Equations; MA 228 Probability and Statistical Inference; MA 257 Introduction to Number Theory and Proof Techniques; MA 420 Abstract Algebra; MA 425 Real Analysis; one semester of MA 390 Topics in Mathematics, MA/CS 391 Topics in Computational Mathematics, or MA 427 Euclidean and Non-Euclidean Geometries; MA 400 Internship; PHYS 171-172 General Physics I & II; and 3 credits selected from Computer Science courses numbered 110 or higher.
Electives: to total 120 credits.
Minor requirements: MA 181-182 Calculus I & II; MA 221 Calculus III; MA 215 Linear Algebra; and 3 additional courses (9 credits) chosen from MA 150 Discrete Mathematics, and any MA course numbered 200 or above. Note that any MA/CS 391 (Topics in Computational Mathematics) course may count as both a CS and an MA elective.
Undergraduates seeking teaching licensure in secondary-level Mathematics fulfill a modified curriculum for the Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, as well as 18 credits of professional studies. The physical sciences and Computer Science course requirements are the same as they are for the bachelor's degree in Mathematics. The Mathematics courses required are as follows: MA 150 Discrete Mathematics, MA 181-182 Calculus I & II, MA 221 Calculus III, MA 228 Probability and Statistical Inference, MA 225 Differential Equations, MA 215 Linear Algebra, MA 257 Introduction to Number Theory and Proof Techniques, MA 330 History of Mathematics, MA 420 Abstract Algebra, and MA 427 Euclidean and Non-Euclidean Geometries.
Students should consult their primary advisor in Mathematics for program requirements. A second advisor is also provided by the School of Education and Human Services. See the School of Education and Human Services for a complete description of the undergraduate teaching licensure program and the admissions process.
Students pursuing licensure in this manner complete all requirements necessary for Virginia licensure including field experience and student teaching. This program of studies allows students to complete a baccalaureate degree in Mathematics and also be licensed to teach secondary Mathematics at the end of four years.