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Mathematics

The student of Mathematics begins by developing a solid foundation in pure mathematics. The mathematics program offers major tracks with concentrations in applied fields, such as Finance and Economics. All majors are required to take at least one applied mathematics courses. Some faculty members have developed grant support, allowing qualified students to participate in their research programs.

Unique offerings

There are a number of unique opportunities for Mathematics students:

  • Students are encouraged to participate in problem-solving activities leading to participation in the prestigious Putnam Exam
  • Students are offered the opportunity to participate in the Suffolk Undergraduate Mathematics Society (SUMS)
  • Various summer research experiences programs (REU) are available for undergraduates
  • Well-qualified upper-level students with strong mathematics and communication skills can receive special training and supervision while teaching sections of the MATH-000 Mathshop course

Preparing for a career

To foster a close working relationship with the faculty, upper level mathematic courses have small enrollments. A major in Mathematics, even with the addition of a minor in another discipline, contains a substantial block of elective courses. These electives allow the student to investigate subjects of interest or to construct a pre-professional program best suited to his or her needs. Most of our majors broaden their options by completing a minor in Computer Science. This combination provides a solid basis for beginning a career immediately upon graduation.

Mathematics Major Programs

A student majoring in mathematics must successfully complete 44 credits of coursework in Mathematics plus 12 credits of coursework in Computer Science and Physics, distributed as follows.

Major course requirements

Mathematics (44 credits):

Complementary major requirements

Computer Science: (4 credits):

Physics: (8 credits):

  • PHYS 151 University Physics I
  • PHYS 151 University Physics Lab I
  • PHYS 152 University Physics II
  • PHYS 152 University Physics Lab II

Grade point requirement:

The College of Arts and Sciences requires each candidate for a bachelor’s degree to complete all of the necessary courses with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 overall and also to earn a GPA of at least 2.0 in the major. To qualify for a degree in mathematics, the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science further requires each student to earn a GPA of at least 2.0 in MATH courses above the level of Multivariable Calculus (MATH 265).     

Careers in Education

Initial Licensure

To qualify for Initial Licensure in Secondary Education under the current rules, a student should complete our major program in mathematics, choosing the following specified Mathematics electives.

Consult the Education and Human Services section of the catalog and your EHS co-advisor to determine the currently approved set of required EHS courses.

Mathematics Minor Programs

To qualify for a minor in Mathematics, a student must successfully complete (with a GPA of at least 2.0) 20 credits of course work in mathematics, distributed as follows: