Mathematics
Major/Minor
Major
All incoming students are given a recommended placement in mathematics based upon their high school record and their performance on the SAT and/or ACT.
11 to 15 courses make up the major:
- Calculus and Analytic Geometry I and II, Linear Algebra, and Multivariate Calculus;
- two of the following: Differential Equations, Combinatorics and Graph Theory, Mathematical Modeling, Operations Research, Numerical Analysis, and Probability and Statistics I and II;
- two of the following: Introduction to Topology, Real Analysis I and II, Abstract Algebra I and II, and Functions of a Complex Variable;
- one other full-credit course numbered above 212;
- Computer Programming I; and
- Independent Study.
The Mathematics Major's Handbook
Minor
A minor in mathematics consists of six courses, three of which must be Calculus I (111 or 108), Calculus II (112), and Linear Algebra (211). The other three mathematics courses must be numbered above 210.
Pre-Engineering
Combined programs of liberal arts and engineering are available. See Pre-Engineering Advising Program.
Teaching Licensure
Students who are planning to receive licensure in elementary education are required to take Education 260: Curriculum: Math/Science/Social Studies in the Early Childhood Years. No mathematics beyond this course is required to fulfill the State requirement; however, Mathematics 100 would be an excellent choice to help meet Wooster's Learning Across the Disciplines requirements. Any student wishing to pursue licensure in elementary education should plan a program carefully with the Department of Education. For licensure in middle school or adolescent to young adult/secondary teaching of mathematics, State requirements call for at least a minor in mathematics. In addition, either Education 250: Middle School Curriculum Methods and Assessment: Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies or Education 316: Curriculum Methods and Assessment in Adolescent and Young Adult Education: Integrated Mathematics is required. Mathematics majors seeking certification for teaching middle school or adolescent to young adult/secondary mathematics should plan their program early, in consultation with the Department of Education, and may choose to write a Senior Independent Study Thesis on a topic related to the teaching of adolescent to young adult/secondary mathematics.
Graduate Study
Students who wish to pursue graduate study in mathematics should take a minimum of Math 300: Topology, Math 302: Real Analysis I, Math 304: Abstract Algebra I, and Math 306: Functions of a Complex Variable.