Admissions : Undergraduate Degree Programs

Mathematics

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The mathematics programs offered by the department are designed to meet the needs of students interested in pure or applied mathematics or mathematics education. The programs are flexible and kept up-to-date. They can accommodate students who plan to continue with graduate studies in mathematics or related fields as well as those who want to enter the profession directly from college.

It is the mission of the mathematics department to contribute to our society’s mathematical competency in a manner consistent with the university’s mission. To accomplish this, the department has defined its goals for the following three constituencies.

  1. The department supports the development of the mathematics student by providing students with:
    1. A breadth of knowledge in core areas of mathematics.
    2. A depth of knowledge in a specific area.
    3. Strong skills in mathematical communication, problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and applications to related areas.
    4. Personalized learning experience in mathematics.
  2. The department supports the mission of the university by:
    1. Developing mathematical literacy for all students.
    2. Meeting the mathematical needs of all majors.
    3. Providing expertise in mathematics, math education, and statistics.
    4. Conducting theoretical and applied research in the mathematical sciences.
    5. Maintaining a wide presence in the university community outside the department.
  3. The department supports the needs of the community by:
    1. Providing expertise in mathematics, math education, and statistics.
    2. Conducting research in the mathematical sciences.
    3. Providing continuing education and retraining in mathematics and mathematics-based fields.
    4. Fostering the appreciation of mathematical sciences.

At the completion of their B.A. in Mathematics:

  1. Students will communicate mathematics in written form, using appropriate mathematical writing conventions.
  2. Students will read, explain and create mathematical exposition.
  3. Students will analyze, model and solve problems.
  4. Students will be required to demonstrate proficiency in a variety of technological tools (computer algebra systems, visualization software, statistical packages and some computer programming language).

For those completing a BS in Secondary Education, students will demonstrate competence in the 16 standards for preparation of mathematics teachers as set by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.  These standards are:

  1. Knowledge of Mathematical Problem Solving
  2. Knowledge of Reasoning and Proof
  3. Knowledge of Mathematical Communication
  4. Knowledge of Mathematical Connections
  5. Knowledge of Mathematical Representation
  6. Knowledge of Technology
  7. Dispositions
  8. Knowledge of Mathematics Pedagogy
  9. Knowledge of Number and Operation
  10. Knowledge of Different Perspectives on Algebra
  11. Knowledge of Geometries
  12. Knowledge of Calculus
  13. Knowledge of Discrete Mathematics
  14. Knowledge of Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability
  15. Knowledge of Measurement
  16. Field-Based Experiences

More information about specific indicators can be found on the Math department website at www.wcsu.edu/math.

Minor Program Information:

Minor in Mathematics for Elementary Education Majors

At least 17 credits to include MAT 171 or 181, MAT 182, MAT 120, MAT 242 and at least one of the following: MAT 211, MAT 363 or MAT 251. Additionally, MAT 105 is required, as it is for all elementary education certification students.

To learn more about the Mathematics degree, please follow the links below