Mathematical Studies - Bachelor of Arts (31+ Credits)
(31-35 credits plus 6 credit internship)
The Mathematical Studies major is designed for students with an interest in further study of mathematics but not planning to teach secondary mathematics or to pursue graduate study in mathematics. Mathematical Studies is especially recommended for Elementary Education majors interested in specializing in mathematics or Environmental Studies majors who would like more of a quantitative emphasis, but is open to other students, as well.
Learning Goals for the Mathematical Studies Major:
I. To develop an appreciation of the power, beauty, and utility of mathematics
- Use mathematics to model real-life problems in the sciences and other disciplines
- Conduct a real-world mathematical study
- Demonstrate a sociocultural perspective of mathematics including how mathematics provides a lens on global issues, cultural concerns, and social responsibility
II. To develop a grounding in critical thinking, analysis, and problem solving
- Generate, collect, and organize information systematically
- Analyze and construct logical arguments
- Discover patterns, formulate conjectures, and construct appropriate models through exploration and experimentation
III. To develop an understanding of both theoretical and applied mathematics
- Conceptually justify mathematical procedures
- Apply the conceptual ideas and skills of calculus
- Interpret and apply statistical methods
- Use, evaluate, and choose appropriate technology to explore and solve mathematical problems
IV. To develop the ability to communicate and justify mathematical concepts and solution strategies
- Connect multiple representations of mathematical ideas (e.g. graphs, tables, formulas, situations)
- Read, write, and create mathematical justifications using correct mathematical terminology and symbols
- Engage in mathematical discourse, work in collaborative teams, and reflect on the mathematical ideas of others
Degree Requirements
I. Required Core (13 Credits)
II. Additional Courses (18-21 Credits)
(Choose a total of 6 courses: At least 4 from Category A, and at most 2 from Category B)
Category A (Mathematics): Choose FOUR or more
CMATH 2140 and
CMATH 2144 are required for Middle School Education majors
(Note: Secondary Education majors should complete the Mathematics major)
Category B (Other Quantitative Disciplines): Choose up to TWO
Other quantitative courses may be substituted with the approval of the NSM Department Chair.
III. Internship Component (6 Credits)
Working with their advisor and the CLAS Internship Office, all students, except for Education majors, develop an individual plan for applying their mathematical knowledge to the professional world through an internship.