Have you ever wondered how minimum wage or interest rates are determined? Or how much money you should invest to turn a profit? Have you ever considered the complexity of traffic patterns? Answers to many of life?s problems are found in mathematics. Contrary to popular belief, mathematics is not as much about numbers as it is the study of patterns and structure. As a math major, you will spend countless hours using mathematical skills to think about, reason through, and analyze information. Through analysis and application you will better understand the world and be able to practice the critical thinking necessary to maintain a firm spiritual and moral foundation.
Whether you plan to pursue graduate studies in mathematics or if you?re more interested in applied mathematics - business, physics, chemistry, engineering, economics, operations research, computer programming, or numerous other fields, the program at Bethany was designed to meet your needs. The required completion of either an independent research project or a mathematics-related internship will distinguish you from other mathematics majors seeking graduate school or job placement.
Regardless of your long-term mathematical goals, you will participate in two semesters of Mathematics Colloquium. This capstone course gives you the opportunity to learn about mathematical topics not covered otherwise in your coursework through presentations by Bethany math professors and experts outside of the Bethany community. This course also provides a forum for you to share your research and internship experiences with others and to engage in student projects.
Mission Statement
The Mathematics major at Bethany offers courses in both applied and theoretical mathematics to prepare students for advanced studies as well as careers in mathematical applications of scientific disciplines. It does this within a Christ-centered, liberal arts framework that encourages breadth as well as depth of knowledge. Mathematics, the study of patterns and structures more than of numbers, is presented as a means to enable students to practice independent thinking so as not to be shaken from the eternal foundation on which our moral and spiritual growth is based. Students develop analytical reasoning and the ability to apply mathematical logic to solve problems, thus improving critical thinking abilities.
Entry into the Major
A student wishing to major in mathematics must submit a formal application to the major after completing MATH142. Extraordinary cases will be dealt with on an individual basis. Upon receipt of the application, students will be granted entry into the major if they have met the following requirements:
- Achieved an overall GPA of 2.5 or better
- Achieved a grade of C or better in all mathematics coursework
- Secured an advisor within the mathematics department
Core Requirements
Required lower division courses:
Required upper division courses:
Major Electives
Required 13 credits:
Capstone/ Internship
Choose one of the following:
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