Mathematics (B.S.) - J

Program Description

The B.S. in mathematics provides students with an opportunity to study one of western civilization’s oldest and richest disciplines. In addition to the intrinsic value of the study of mathematics as a liberal art, the mathematics degree provides the foundation for a variety of careers in business, scientific and related fields. Students desiring preparation for a high school teaching career may also earn secondary mathematics teaching licensure.

Student Learning Outcomes 

The mathematics program aims to produce graduates who are knowledgeable and skillful users and communicators of mathematics. The learning outcomes are broken into two categories: content knowledge outcomes and capstone outcomes. The content knowledge outcomes are assessed by the Core Assessment Exam, which students take after they have completed the required core courses in the major. The capstone outcomes are assessed when students present their senior projects.

Content Knowledge Outcomes

Upon completion of the core requirements, students will be able to:

Calculus I:

• apply the limit definition of the derivative and use it to calculate the instantaneous rate of change of a function.
• calculate the derivative of any algebraic or transcendental function.
• use the derivative to solve real-world problems.
• apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.

Calculus II:

• apply integration techniques to a variety of algebraic and transcendental functions.
• use the definite integral (and limits of sums) to solve real-world problems.
• determine whether an infinite series converges and, when possible, find its sum.

Linear Algebra:

• use matrices to solve real-world problems
• use the RREF form of a matrix in a variety of ways (including solving systems of linear equations; testing for linear independence, spanning, and to determine whether a set of vectors forms a basis; finding eigenvectors)
• prove some basic properties of matrices, vectors and linear transformations

Statistics:

• apply the normal or binomial distribution to solve certain probability problems.
• calculate probabilities and apply them to determine the unusualness of events.
• create and use descriptive statistics to summarize, analyze and compare data sets.
• explain the importance of random/probability sampling.

Mathematical Reasoning:

• apply the working tools of predicate logic.
• construct a lucid mathematical proof that demonstrates the logic while using proper grammar and precise mathematical notation.
• explore complex and unfamiliar mathematical ideas while effectively communicating these ideas both orally and in writing.

Capstone Outcomes:

Students will:

• be able to explain main ideas of mathematics clearly, in writing and orally.
• develop the ability to read mathematics independently.
• deepen their own mathematical knowledge by applying previous mathematical learning to new mathematical thinking, concepts and ideas.