Program Overview
Saint Louis University's mathematics program prepares students for graduate studies in mathematics or related fields. It emphasizes small class sizes, individual attention from faculty, and a blend of foundational courses, upper-division electives, and opportunities for research and engagement. Graduates are equipped for careers in diverse fields, including mathematics, statistics, data science, education, and more.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Saint Louis University's mathematics program is designed to provide a strong grounding in mathematics for students considering graduate school in mathematics or a closely allied field. The program combines the features of both small and large schools, offering a student-friendly environment with small class sizes taught by regular faculty. Students receive individual attention and are recruited for participation in math contests, tutoring positions, and other opportunities. The program's breadth allows students to tailor their upper-division math courses to their interests and goals.
Objectives:
Graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate conceptual competency in foundational areas of mathematics by developing problem-solving skills and solving problems in these areas.
- Demonstrate an ability to write and comprehend mathematical proofs using both direct and indirect methods.
- Demonstrate an ability to analyze data and perform appropriate statistical analyses.
- Demonstrate an ability to write computer programs that implement mathematical or statistical algorithms.
- Demonstrate an ability to communicate mathematical ideas and concepts both orally and in writing.
- Demonstrate an understanding of at least two advanced, in-depth topics in mathematics or statistics, including at least one topic in pure mathematics.
Outline:
Program Structure:
- The B.S. in Mathematics requires a minimum of 51 credits.
- The program consists of a core of five required courses, including calculus and linear algebra.
- Students must complete nine upper-division courses, including pure mathematics courses in real analysis and algebra, an upper-level statistics course, two upper-division sequences (one in pure mathematics), and electives.
- Students must also take at least one course in computer programming and one in another discipline with a strong mathematical or computational component.
Course Schedule:
A recommended semester-by-semester plan of study is provided, assuming full-time enrollment. The roadmap outlines the courses and milestones to be completed in each semester to ensure timely graduation.
Individual Modules:
- University Undergraduate Core: 32-35 credits
- Major Requirements: 32-35 credits
- MATH 1510 Calculus I (4 credits)
- MATH 1520 Calculus II (4 credits)
- MATH 2530 Calculus III (4 credits)
- MATH 2660 Principles of Mathematics (3 credits)
- MATH 3120 Introduction to Linear Algebra (3 credits)
- Computer Programming Requirement: CSCI 1060 Introduction to Computer Science: Scientific Programming (3 credits) or CSCI 1300 Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming (4 credits)
- Upper Division Requirements: 30 credits
- Pure Mathematics Requirements:
- MATH 4110 Introduction to Abstract Algebra (3 credits)
- MATH 4210 Introduction to Analysis (3 credits)
- Statistics Requirement:
- STAT 3850 Foundation of Statistics (3 credits)
- Sequence Requirement: 6-9 credits
- Students must complete two sequences, one of which must be either the algebra sequence or the analysis sequence.
- Differential Equations Sequence:
- MATH 3550 Differential Equations (3 credits)
- MATH 4550 Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos (3 credits) or MATH 4570 Partial Differential Equations (3 credits)
- Statistics Sequence:
- STAT 3850 Foundation of Statistics (3 credits)
- MATH 4800 Probability Theory (3 credits) or STAT 4840 Time Series (3 credits) or STAT 4870 Applied Regression (3 credits)
- Algebra Sequence:
- MATH 4110 Introduction to Abstract Algebra (3 credits)
- MATH 4120 Linear Algebra (3 credits) or MATH 4150 Number Theory (3 credits)
- Analysis Sequence:
- MATH 4210 Introduction to Analysis (3 credits)
- MATH 4220 Metric Spaces (3 credits) or MATH 4230 Multivariable Analysis (3 credits)
- Complex Analysis Sequence:
- MATH 4310 Introduction to Complex Variables (3 credits)
- MATH 4320 Complex Variables II (3 credits) or MATH 4360 Geometric Topology (3 credits)
- Upper Division Mathematics Elective Courses: 9-12 credits
- Any 3000 or 4000-level mathematics electives
- Allied Elective: 3-4 credits
- An additional course in another discipline that has a strong mathematical or computational component.
- Approved courses include:
- BIOL 4030 Introduction to Genomics
- CHEM 4300 Mathematical Techniques in Chemistry
- Any 3 or 4-credit CSCI course other than the one used to satisfy the programming requirement
- EAS 3330 Physical Meteorology I or EAS 3500 Numerical Modeling Applications
- Any 3000 or 4000 level ECON course (paying attention to prerequisites)
- Any 3 or 4-credit PHYS course numbered 1610 or higher
- Any 3 or 4-credit course in Engineering
Teaching:
- The program emphasizes small class sizes and individual attention from faculty.
- Faculty get to know students and provide guidance.
- The SLU Mathematics and Computer Science Club offers opportunities for students to explore relevant topics outside of the classroom.
Careers:
- Graduates are prepared for careers in business, industry, medicine, government, and education.
- Common career paths include:
- Mathematician
- Statistician
- Data Scientist
- Actuary
- Analyst
- Consultant
- Many graduates pursue advanced degrees in mathematics, statistics, or other fields.
- Students with mathematics and statistics degrees are attractive to professional graduate schools in law, medicine, and business.
Other:
- The program follows the recommendations of the Mathematics Association of America for degree programs in mathematics that prepare students for graduate work.
- The program highlights opportunities for students interested in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, and secondary school teaching.
- The program emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
- The program notes that mathematics is an appropriate major for students planning careers in law or medicine.
- The program provides a list of industry and government employers where graduates have found success.
2+SLU Programs:
- The program offers a 2+SLU pathway for students transferring from St. Louis Community College.
Saint Louis University
Overview:
Saint Louis University (SLU) is a Jesuit Catholic university with a rich history spanning over 200 years. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, student-centered approach, and research-driven environment. SLU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, health sciences, law, medicine, nursing, and more.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
SLU provides a vibrant and supportive campus community with a strong emphasis on student involvement. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including athletics, service learning, and cultural events. The university also offers resources for student well-being, such as counseling services and wellness programs.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
SLU is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and dedicated faculty.Experiential Learning:
The university emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.Supportive Community:
SLU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff.Billiken Promise:
This program offers admitted undergraduate students a range of benefits, including virtual internships, guaranteed study abroad opportunities, and flexible scholarships.Academic Programs:
SLU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
94 bachelor's degree programsGraduate:
88 master's degree programsProfessional:
Programs in law, medicine, and other fieldsThe university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Health Sciences:
Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, and other related fieldsBusiness:
Finance, Marketing, Management, and EntrepreneurshipLaw:
Legal studies and practiceArts and Sciences:
Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural SciencesOther:
SLU has a beautiful residential campus located in Midtown St. Louis, Missouri. The university also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, offering study abroad opportunities for students.
Entry Requirements:
- Freshman:
- Graduation from an accredited high school, an acceptable HiSET exam score, or a General Education Development (GED) test.
- Transfer:
- Graduation from an accredited high school or an acceptable GED score.
- Students with fewer than 24 semester credits (or 30 quarter credits) must meet freshman admission requirements.
- Students with 24 or more semester credits (or 30 quarter credits) must submit transcripts from all previously attended colleges.
- International:
- All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply.
- Demonstrate English Language Proficiency (see below).
- Proof of financial support, including:
- A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the time at Saint Louis University.
- Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International Applicants:
- Demonstrate English Language Proficiency.