Program Overview
Mathematics BA Program
The mathematics major at Drexel provides a supportive learning environment in which students obtain a firm grounding in the core areas of mathematics and apply this knowledge to problems encountered in a technological society. The Department of Mathematics offers students the option of either a BA or a BS degree.
About the Program
The Mathematics Department takes pride in offering a balanced and flexible curriculum. Three very different kinds of skills are emphasized in the mathematics major:
- Abstract Reasoning: All students majoring in mathematics take courses that emphasize abstract reasoning. Students read and write proofs, and graduate well prepared to enter a PhD program in mathematics.
- Computing: All students majoring in mathematics take a series of computing courses. This emphasis on computing is one of the distinctive features of the mathematics program at Drexel, and provides students with a competitive advantage in the job market.
- Mathematical Modeling: All students majoring in mathematics take multidisciplinary courses that focus on the interplay between mathematics and an area of application. Students often use electives to focus on an area of personal interest.
Degree Requirements
- General Education Requirements:
- CIVC 101: Introduction to Civic Engagement (1.0)
- COM 230: Techniques of Speaking (3.0)
- COOP 101: Career Management and Professional Development (1.0)
- ENGL 101 or 111: Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research (3.0)
- ENGL 102 or 112: Composition and Rhetoric II: Advanced Research and Evidence-Based Writing (3.0)
- ENGL 103 or 113: Composition and Rhetoric III: Themes and Genres (3.0)
- UNIV S101: The Drexel Experience (1.0)
- UNIV S201: Looking Forward: Academics and Careers (1.0)
- College of Arts and Sciences Core Curriculum:
- Engaging the Natural World (6.0-8.0)
- Analyzing Cultures & Histories (6.0-8.0)
- Understanding Society & Human Behavior (6.0-8.0)
- Cultivating Global Competence (6.0-8.0)
- Perspectives in Diversity (3.0-4.0)
- Computer Science sequence: (9.0)
- CS 150 or 164: Computer Science Principles (3.0)
- CS 171: Computer Programming I (3.0)
- CS 172: Computer Programming II (3.0)
- Any BIO, CHEM, PHYS, or PHEV course (3.0-4.0)
- Free Electives (66.0)
- Core Mathematics Requirements:
- MATH 121: Calculus I (4.0)
- MATH 122: Calculus II (4.0)
- MATH 123: Calculus III (4.0)
- MATH 200: Multivariate Calculus (4.0)
- MATH 201: Linear Algebra (4.0)
- MATH 210: Differential Equations (4.0)
- MATH 220: Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning (3.0)
- MATH 331 or 401: Abstract Algebra I or Elements of Modern Analysis I (3.0-4.0)
- Math Major Electives (30.0)
Sample Plan of Study
The sample plan of study is available for 4-year, no co-op; 4-year, 1 co-op; and 5-year, 3 co-op options.
Co-op/Career Opportunities
Mathematicians are employed in a variety of capacities in business, industry, and government. Students can combine courses in economics or finance and mathematics to prepare for careers in the actuarial field, banks, stock exchanges, or finance departments of large corporations or other financial institutions.
Dual Degree Bachelor's Programs
Since applied mathematics plays an important role in many different disciplines, mathematics majors often choose to pursue specialization in a second field of study. Students may choose a dual major that involves completing the requirements of two separate majors or they can opt for a minor, which involves completing the major in one field and a smaller set of courses in another.
Program Level Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate problem-solving skills in a broad range of significant mathematical contexts
- Understand what constitutes mathematical thinking, and be able to produce and judge the validity of mathematical arguments
- Produce clear and valid proofs
- Demonstrate substantial computer programming skills
- Interact effectively with collaborators in other disciplines
- Present mathematical information clearly, both orally and in writing, in a way that is appropriate for the audience
Mathematics Faculty
The department has a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of mathematics, including applied analysis, algebraic combinatorics, biomathematics, and more.
Writing-intensive Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline.