Mathematics, B.S.

Mathematics Mission Statement

Consistent with the mission of the College, the Department of Mathematics provides programs that foster knowledge of a rich and diverse set of ideas in mathematics and computer sciences (quantitative science); develop intellectual curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning; develop problem solving skills: creative imagination, logical reasoning, critical evaluation, mathematical modeling and common sense; develop effective communication skills; develop an appreciation of interrelations of computer science and mathematics; stimulate an aesthetic appreciation of the discipline; and generate modes of analytical thinking that can be extended to all areas of human thought and exploration.

Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate thorough knowledge of pre-calculus topics.
Be able to set up calculus-level word problems.
Be able to apply formulas for differentiation and integration.
Develop skills for independent learning.
Demonstrate and apply mathematical “common sense”.
Learn to use and appropriately apply technology.
Develop abilities to discuss mathematics.
Acquire an appreciation for the role of mathematics in the history of learning.
Develop research and writing skills.
Develop proof skills.
Visualize, represent and manipulate abstract ideas.
Demonstrate ability to apply mathematics to a broad spectrum of problems.
Participate in discipline-related activities that are part of the mathematical community outside the classroom.

The Mathematics program at Westminster offers the opportunity for students to acquire mathematical knowledge and develop thought processes that are fundamental to their liberal arts education. Students who complete the program successfully are prepared for a variety of careers in business, industry, and education as well as graduate work.

The Major in Mathematics

A minimum of 48 semester hours of coursework, comprising:

Plus

Plus, either MTH 150 (Calculus I) and at least 12 semester hours of mathematics courses numbered 300 or higher, OR at least 16 semester hours of mathematics courses numbered 253 or higher.

NOTE:

MTH 431 cannot be used for either the mathematics major or minor.

Internship/Field Experience: A student may wish to arrange an off-campus experience with a business, industry, service agency, high school, governmental office, or another appropriate organization. The course credit for an internship depends on the length and the actual learning situation. Students work with the academic adviser to determine the credit. Many of the supervising organizations pay a salary, although this is not necessary. We believe that this is a valuable learning experience for an individual during the junior or senior year.

Graduation Requirements: All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C- or higher before subsequent courses can be taken. In addition to the above, the minor in secondary education must comply with the certification requirements listed on the next page. A student who earns a grade lower than C- in three courses in the major prior to registering for the Capstone course (MTH 601 ) will be identified as not making progress in the major. (Exceptions will be made for students who take a medical or personal leave for the semester). Students who are not making progress in the major will not be allowed to register for the capstone course, a requirement for completion of the major.

Transient Credit Policy: Students who use transient credit (that is, transfer credit from another college or university) to satisfy course requirements in Westminster’s mathematics major or mathematics minor may NOT get transient credit for more than four semester hours of mathematics courses that are 200 level or above with the exception of courses equivalent to Westminster’s MTH 250 (Calculus III), MTH 253 (Differential Equations) or MTH 241 (Discrete Mathematics). These restrictions hold for any external course whether it is a traditional classroom style or online.

All-College Honors Program : The All-College Honors Research Project will replace the capstone requirement for students majoring in mathematics, if successfully completed. Students do not need to register for the capstone course in the mathematics program and instead will take 8 credit hours of Honors Research (MTH 660 on up) split over two or more semesters.

Secondary Education Minor : To be eligible for certification in mathematics, in addition to the courses listed above, students must successfully complete MTH 302 , MTH 331 , MTH 335 , and MTH 431 ; the requirements for graduation listed in the Academic Policies section of this Catalog; 6 semester hours of computer science, and the minor in secondary education. Requirements for the minor are listed under the Education Program. The prerequisites for admission to Senior Block are a cumulative GPA of 3.000 in all college course work and 3.000 in the major. Students who are interested in secondary education should contact the chair of the School of Education as soon as possible for complete information. If all the requirements are to be completed in four years, careful planning in both the major field and in the minor is essential.

Double Majors

Students who are majoring in Mathematics as a second major may complete one additional MTH course numbered 300 or above, except MTH 431, in place of capstone.