Math & Computer Sciences

Majors:

Applied Mathematics/Engineering ( B.S.)
Computer Science (B.S.)
Mathematics (B.A.)
Mathematics Education (B.S.)

Minors:

Computer Science
Mathematics
Physics

Purpose
The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science seeks to provide students with experiences that will assist them in defining their life and career objectives. Course offerings, advising and day-to-day contact with faculty and other students contribute to this goal. The courses provide the necessary background to allow students to pursue graduate work, teach secondary school, obtain employment in government and industry and acquire mathematical tools for use in the physical, social, life and management sciences. The Department also functions as a service unit for the entire University, teaching such mathematics courses as other departments deem necessary for their programs. In addition to the students’ academic development, the Department provides an intellectual environment for fostering personal development, interpersonal skills and self-understanding. These goals reflect the Department’s philosophy that our primary reason for being is to foster the intellectual growth and development of the students.

High School Preparation
Potential mathematics majors should follow the college preparatory program in high school. Students should take as many mathematics courses as possible to acquire the knowledge and skills in algebra, geometry and trigonometry needed for college calculus.

Application for Admission
To be admitted as a major in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, students must have completed as least 32 hours of course work, including EN 112 Freshman Composition. Students must also have completed MA 171-172 Calculus if a mathematics major, or CM 210, 220 if a computer science major. Applicants must have an overall minimum GPA of 2.00 and a minimum GPA of 2.25 in mathematics or computer science. Application forms must be obtained from and returned to the department.

Exit Examination
Majors in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science are required to pass an exit examination with a minimum passing grade of C. The exit examination is administered during both the fall and spring semesters. See the exit examination policy and procedures in the departmental curriculum guide.

Career Opportunities
Since mathematical scientists use mathematics to solve real-world problems, a degree in mathematics and computer science prepares a student for a variety of positions in business, government, industry and education (teaching K-12). The types of exciting and rewarding careers available include actuary, cryptologist, computer programmer, computer systems analyst, information scientist, mathematician, numerical analyst, operations research analyst and statistician.