Objectives

Mathematics, as an intellectual activity, is both an art and a powerful tool for problem solving and for understanding the physical universe. A mathematics major explores the different facets of the discipline through a broad spectrum of courses in applied, computational, and pure mathematics. In addition to exploring mathematics, a student majoring in mathematics takes classes from other fields (e.g., science and education) that help her/him prepare for her/his chosen career. The Department’s programs allow a student to focus on different aspects of the discipline and lead to one of three undergraduate degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts with a major in Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science with a major in Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science with a major in Applied Mathematics

The Department offers minors in Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Secondary Education Mathematics. These minors are designed for students majoring in another field (e.g., engineering, physics, business, economics, computer science, or liberal studies) who wish to develop an undergraduate background in mathematics that goes beyond the requirements of their degree program.

In addition to its major and minor degree programs, the Mathematics Department serves every department in LMU’s four Colleges, the School of Film and Television, and the School of Education through the core curriculum and by providing students in other majors courses designed to serve the mathematical needs of their fields of study.

Learning Outcomes

1. Content Proficiency. In each of the following subject areas of mathematics:
   1. calculus and analysis,
   2. abstract and linear algebra,
   3. probability, combinatorics and statistics,
   4. elementary numerical methods;
      Students will be able to:
      1. State and use basic definitions and theorems.
      2. Solve basic problems.
      3. Decide on useful approaches to more complicated problems.
      4. Explain the central concepts of the subject.
2. Communication. Students will be able to communicate mathematics both orally and in writing. They will do so according to accepted standards in mathematics.
3. Tools. Students will employ a variety of tools such as the library, Internet, computers, and calculators to solve problems and do undergraduate research.
4. Independent Learners. Students will be able to independently investigate a mathematical topic.
5. Career and Professional Preparation. LMU mathematics graduates will be prepared to engage in mathematics-related professions or in a graduate school academic environment. This preparation will include significant pre-professional experiences.

General Major Requirements

Students must complete the corresponding Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science University Core requirements as defined by the Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering; students will choose the proper sequence of University Core courses in consultation with their advisor.

Mathematics majors and minors are not permitted to enroll in a mathematics course without a minimum grade of C (2.0) in that course’s prerequisite. A minimum grade of C (2.0) is required in each course in the lower division major requirements. A minimum cumulative grade point average of C (2.0) is required in the upper division major requirements for graduation.

Lower Division Major Requirements

• MATH 131 Calculus I 4 semester hours
• MATH 132 Calculus II 4 semester hours
• MATH 190 Workshop in Mathematics I 2 semester hours
• MATH 191 Workshop in Mathematics II 2 semester hours
• MATH 234 Calculus III 4 semester hours
• MATH 245 Ordinary Differential Equations 3 semester hours
• MATH 248 Introduction to Methods of Proof 3 semester hours
• MATH 250 Linear Algebra 3 semester hours
• MATH 282 Elementary Computational Methods 3 semester hours

Upper Division Requirements (10 courses):

• MATH 321 Real Variables I 3 semester hours
• MATH 331 Elements of Group Theory 3 semester hours
• MATH 357 Complex Variables 3 semester hours
• MATH 360 Introduction to Probability and Statistics 3 semester hours

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Curriculum

(124/126 S.H.)