Mathematics
Department of Mathematics
College of Arts and Sciences
244 Mathematics Building
North Campus
Buffalo, NY 14260
Phone: 716.645.6284
Fax: 716.645.5039
Web: www.math.buffalo.edu
Samuel D. Schack
Chair
John Ringland
Director of Undergraduate Studies
UndergraduateStudies@math.buffalo.edu
About the Program
Mathematics is a broad discipline with many diverse applications in social, managerial, and life sciences, as well as in the physical sciences and engineering. The Department of Mathematics provides a variety of concentrations leading to a baccalaureate degree.
Degree Options
B.A. in Mathematics
General Curriculum in Mathematics
Basic liberal arts major program in mathematics; not tied to a specific career direction, but rather provides a general background for students interested in a variety of careers that require mathematical expertise.
Concentration C
Mathematics major with a concentration in computing and applied mathematics; designed for students interested in careers in applying mathematics or doing scientific programming.
Concentration GS/ED
For the student whose career goal is to attain a master's degree for professional certification in adolescent mathematics education; may be coupled with a minor in teacher education.
Concentration GS
Basic theoretical course of study for mathematics majors intending graduate study in mathematics, or intending careers in such fields as actuarial science, financial analysis or cryptography.
Concentration GS/AM
Mathematics major for intended graduate study in applied mathematics; a basic theoretical course of study for students planning a career and/or graduate study in applied mathematics.
BS in Mathematics
Concentration BSc
Same as Program GS with four additional electives.
Concentration BSc/AM
Same as Program GS/AM with four additional electives.
BA in Mathematics/Economics
Program M/E
Joint major with economics, for students intending graduate study in economics.
BS in Mathematical Physics
Program M/P
Joint major with physics, for students intending graduate study in mathematical physics.
BS in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
Concentration in Mathematics
The university offers a bachelor of science degree in bioinformatics and computational biology, with options for a concentration in biology, biophysics, computer science and engineering, or mathematics. Please refer to the Bioinformatics and Computational Biology program for further details.
BA/MA in Mathematics
Five-year, 138-credit combined degree program. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in courses through differential equations and linear algebra, as well as letters of recommendation. For program details, contact the director of undergraduate studies.
Acceptance Information
Applicants to the mathematics program should bring a copy of their current UB DARS reports directly to the Department of Mathematics. Students may apply at any time after they have completed the three-course calculus sequence MTH 141-MTH 142-MTH 241 or the equivalent at a transfer institution, but should apply, if possible, while enrolled in MTH 241 to receive appropriate advisement.
The department’s requirement for admission is a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the three calculus courses. Students who have taken more than these three courses usually need a minimum grade of C in any additional required courses they have completed.
Note: Admittance to the department guarantees admittance to the General Curriculum Program only—all other concentrations or programs require specific approval from the director of undergraduate studies. Students who expect difficulty in being admitted to the department should follow the requirements for the General Curriculum Program or see the director of undergraduate studies for advice on which concentration to follow, pending admittance.
Advisement
Students, including freshmen, who are considering majoring in mathematics are encouraged to consult as early as possible with the departmental director of undergraduate studies. Admission to the department as far in advance of graduation as possible ensures that the department and the student can plan together a program best suited to the student’s needs.
Admission Advisement. Note: If you are majoring in mathematics, see the director of undergraduate studies at least once a year. If you are intending to major in mathematics, contact the director of undergraduate studies as soon as possible regarding your program. Even if your grades are too low for acceptance to the department, you should see the director of undergraduate studies regarding conditions for acceptance and suggestions for your schedule while waiting for admittance.
The Department of Mathematics provides academic advice to majors and non-majors. The Office of Undergraduate Studies is open 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday. Students in need of advisement on acceptance to the department, choice of courses, program or degree decisions, or career advisement, should see the director of undergraduate studies.
Upon acceptance to the department, it is recommended that students meet with the director of undergraduate studies to map out their programs. Students in all concentrations except computing and applied math are required to discuss with the undergraduate director the appropriateness of their choice of program; this is an opportunity for students to clarify their understanding of the more theoretically oriented programs.
Course Advisement. MTH 115 Survey of Algebra and Trigonometry or three years of high school math is a prerequisite for the freshman calculus course. Students whose mathematical preparation is so weak that they are not prepared for MTH 115 are encouraged to take courses in the university’s Learning Center, located in 217 Baldy Hall.
The Department of Mathematics offers four calculus sequences:
(1) MTH 141-MTH 142-MTH 241 College Calculus I-III: the standard basic calculus course for engineering and science (including computer science) students. It is a prerequisite for more advanced work in mathematics.
(2) MTH 121-MTH 122 Survey of Calculus and Applications I-II: a basic calculus course for general health sciences, and arts and letters. It is somewhat easier than MTH 141-MTH 142 and does not go into the subject as deeply. MTH 121-MTH 122 does not meet the requirements of most science majors.
(3) MTH 131 Mathematical Analysis for Management: a one semester calculus course for management students. It meets the calculus requirement for students in the School of Management.
(4) MTH 153-MTH 154 Honors Calculus I-II: emphasizes proofs and concepts of calculus.
Students who are unsure whether to take MTH 141-MTH 142 or MTH 121-MTH 122 should take MTH 141-MTH 142. Taking MTH 121-MTH 122 might delay graduation by as much as a year.
Since each of the calculus sequences has its own specific requirements and purpose, a change in sequence (MTH 121-MTH 122 or MTH 141-MTH 142) is not recommended. Students who take MTH 121 and later decide that they need to switch into the MTH 141-MTH 142 track will usually need to take MTH 141 first, since even a good grasp of MTH 121 can fail to provide adequate preparation for MTH 142.
Students taking freshman mathematics courses can get tutoring help on a drop-in basis from the Mathematics Help Center. This facility is located in 107 and 110 Mathematics Building.
Recommendations Concerning Related Courses. The Department of Mathematics strongly recommends that its majors in the theoretically oriented concentrations (Concentrations GS and GS/AM or Concentrations BSc and BSc/AM) take at least two semesters of French, German, or Russian, since these, along with English, are the basic languages of the mathematical literature.
All mathematicians need some facility with computers; the department, therefore, recommends that its students take an introductory course in scientific programming. Specifically, a one-year sequence, CSE 113-CSE 114 or CSE 115-CSE 116, is strongly recommended for students majoring in mathematics. Some major concentrations have specific computer science requirements.
Academic Requirements
Departmental Probation. Students whose math GPA drops below 2.0 are placed on departmental probation for one semester. If their GPA remains below 2.0 at the end of the probationary semester, they are dropped from the department. They may reapply after one semester.
Departmental Requirements for Graduation. After a student has been accepted as a major, progress toward fulfillment of the degree requirements is monitored by the department. A student is recommended for a baccalaureate degree in mathematics only if:
(1) the program has been approved by the director of undergraduate studies,
(2) all required/approved courses have been completed, and
(3) a minimum departmental GPA of 2.0 has been attained in the specific program.
Transfer Policy
Transfer students who intend to major in mathematics are urged to consult the director of undergraduate studies before or very early in their first semester at the University at Buffalo to determine equivalency of transferred mathematics courses. Transfer students are required to complete at least four upper-division courses in the Department of Mathematics at the University at Buffalo.
Mathematics - B.S.
Concentration BSc: General Study in Mathematics
About the Concentration
This concentration provides a basic theoretical course of study for mathematics majors intending graduate study in mathematics. Admission to this concentration is by departmental approval only. See the director of undergraduate studies regarding approval.
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I
MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I
MTH 432 Introduction to Real Variables II
Three 300/400-level mathematics courses (not MTH 417)
Four 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (concentration BSc): 64-68
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST - THIRD YEARS
Follow first three years of concentration GS
FOURTH YEAR
Three 300/400 - level mathematics courses (not MTH 417)
Four 300/400 - level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
Note: Not all seven electives need to be taken in the senior year.
Mathematics - B.S.
Concentration BSc/AM: General Study in Applied Mathematics
About the Concentration
This concentration provides a course of study for mathematics majors intending to pursue graduate study in applied mathematics. Admission to this concentration is by departmental approval only. See the director of undergraduate studies regarding approval.
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
CSE 115 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors I
CSE 116 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors II
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 418 Survey of Partial Differential Equations or MTH 449 Introduction to Partial Differential Equations
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I or MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I
MTH 432 Introduction to Real Variables II
Three 300/400-level mathematics courses (not MTH 417)
Four 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
PHY 107 General Physics I
PHY 108 General Physics II
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (concentration BSc/AM): 77-83
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—CSE 115, MTH 141, PHY 107
Spring—CSE 116, MTH 142, PHY 108
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241, MTH 309
Spring—MTH 306, MTH 311
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 418 or MTH 449; MTH 431
Spring—MTH 419 or MTH 420; MTH 432
FOURTH YEAR
Three 300/400-level mathematics courses (not MTH 417)
Four 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
Note: Not all seven electives need to be taken in the senior year.
Mathematical Physics - B.S.
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Advising Notes
Separate applications must be submitted to both the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Physics.
Admission to this program is by departmental approval only. See the director of undergraduate studies regarding approval. Students should consult with the undergraduate director in each department regarding approved electives.
This is a joint program. A student who follows this program but does not complete it will have difficulty completing a math major without substantial additional coursework.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
PHY 107 General Physics I or PHY 117 Honors Physics I
PHY 108 General Physics II or PHY 118 Honors Physics II
PHY 158 General Physics II Lab
Required Courses
MTH 241 College Calculus III
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 417 Survey of Multivariable Calculus
MTH 418 Survey of Partial Differential Equations
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I or MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 424 Fourier Series
MTH 425 Introduction to Complex Variables I
PHY 207 General Physics III or PHY 217 Honors Physics III
PHY 208 General Physics IV
PHY 257 General Physics III Lab
PHY 301 Intermediate Mechanics I
PHY 307 Modern Physics Lab
PHY 401 Modern Physics I
PHY 403 Electricity and Magnetism I
PHY 405 Thermal and Statistical Physics I
PHY 407 Advanced Laboratory or PHY 408 Advanced Laboratory
One 300/400-level MTH elective
One PHY elective (one of the following: PHY 302 Intermediate Mechanics II, PHY 402 Modern Physics II, PHY 404 Electricity and Magnetism II, or PHY 406 Thermal and Statistical Physics II)
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major: 81
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—MTH 141
Spring—MTH 142; PHY 107 or PHY 117
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241; PHY 108 or PHY 118; PHY 158
Spring—MTH 306, MTH 309; PHY 207 or PHY 217; PHY 208, PHY 257
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 417, PHY 301, PHY 307, PHY 401
Spring—MTH 418, one PHY elective
FOURTH YEAR
Fall—MTH 419 or MTH 420; MTH 425, PHY 403, PHY 405
Spring—MTH 424; PHY 407 or PHY 408; one 300/400-level MTH elective
Mathematics - B.A.
General Curriculum in Mathematics
General Curriculum in Mathematics
This is the basic liberal arts major program in mathematics, and allows for freedom in course choice by the students. A total of nine mathematics (MTH) courses are required: four core courses (MTH 141, MTH 142, MTH 241, MTH 309) generally completed in the first two years, and five electives. Several concentrations requiring additional coursework are available for students with specific career goals.
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses (or transfer equivalents).
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
MTH 309 Introduction to Linear Algebra
One of the following: MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations, MTH 337 Introduction to Scientific Computing, MTH 437 Introduction to Numerical Analysis I, or other computer applications course approved by the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics
One of the following: MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs, MTH 313 Elements of Set Theory, MTH 335 Elements of Geometry, MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I, MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II, MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I, or other proofs course approved by the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics
Three 300/400-level mathematics courses
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (basic curriculum): 33-36
(nine courses in mathematics)
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—MTH 141
Spring—MTH 142
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241
Spring—MTH 309
THIRD YEAR
Fall—One of the following: MTH 306, MTH 337, MTH 437, or other computer applications course approved by the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics
Spring—One of the following: MTH 311, MTH 313, MTH 335, MTH 419, MTH 420, MTH 431, or other mathematical proofs course approved by the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics
(Note: selections above must be made in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics.)
FOURTH YEAR
Fall and Spring—Three 300/400 level-mathematics courses
Each elective must be pre-approved by the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics
Mathematics - B.A.
Concentration C: Computing and Applied Mathematics
About the Concentration
This concentration is designed to serve those students interested in careers as applied mathematicians or scientific applications programmers.
The courses in this concentration are like the calculus and computing courses, though more difficult. A student who can handle MTH 141, MTH 142, MTH 241, CSE 115, and CSE 116 should be able to handle concentration C.
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
CSE 115 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors I
CSE 116 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors II
CSE 241 Digital Systems
CSE 250 Algorithms and Data Structures
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 417 Survey of Multivariable Calculus and MTH 418 Survey of Partial Differential Equation or MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I and MTH 432 Introduction to Real Variables II*
MTH 437 Introduction to Numerical Analysis I
MTH 438 Introduction to Numerical Analysis II
Two 300/400-level mathematics courses
Two 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (concentration C): 64-68
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—CSE 115, MTH 141
Spring—CSE 116, MTH 142
SECOND YEAR
Fall—CSE 241, MTH 241
Spring—CSE 250, MTH 306
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 309; MTH 417 or MTH 431*
Spring—MTH 418 or MTH 432*
FOURTH YEAR
Fall—MTH 437
Spring—MTH 438
Fall or Spring—Two 300/400-level mathematics courses, two 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science
*MTH 311 is a prerequisite for MTH 431. Students must take one complete sequence MTH 417-MTH 418 or MTH 431-MTH 432. Students intending to go to graduate school in applied mathematics should take MTH 311-MTH 431-MTH 432 instead of MTH 417-MTH 418. MTH 311 would then count as a technical elective.
Approved Technical Electives Recommended
MTH 314, MTH 343, MTH 353, MTH 354, MTH 411, MTH 412, MTH 424, MTH 425, MTH 426, MTH 443, MTH 444, MTH 445, MTH 449, MTH 460, MTH 463
Any other 300/400-level MTH course would also be acceptable. MTH 311 may be taken as an elective; it is the first abstract theoretical course with proofs. Note that MTH 431-MTH 432 and MTH 419-MTH 420 are designed for students who want intensive preparation in analysis and modern algebra, and are not good choices to just fill out their schedule. MTH 431-MTH 432 may be taken as electives (in addition to MTH 417 or MTH 418) or as requirements (in place of MTH 417 and MTH 418).
Approved technical electives outside the Mathematics department: CSE 305, 400-level CSE courses
Mathematics - B.A.
Concentration GS: General Study in Mathematics
About the Concentration
This concentration describes a basic theoretical course of study for mathematics majors intending to pursue graduate study in mathematics, or intending careers in such fields as actuarial science, financial analysis, or cryptography.
Admission to this concentration is by departmental approval only. See the director of undergraduate studies regarding approval.
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Advising Notes
Concentration GS has the fewest courses of any of the math concentrations except General Curriculum, but many courses are quite difficult; MTH 311, MTH 431-MTH 432, and MTH 419-MTH 420 are abstract theoretical courses emphasizing proofs. A student must do well in MTH 311 to enter this program.
Students planning to go to graduate school should meet with the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics in the fall semester of their junior year. They should plan to take the GREs in either spring of the junior year or fall of the senior year.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I
MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I
MTH 432 Introduction to Real Variables II
One 300/400-level mathematics course (not MTH 417)
Two 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (concentration GS): 49-52
(thirteen courses in math and related areas)
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—MTH 141
Spring—MTH 142
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241, MTH 309
Spring—MTH 306, MTH 311
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 419, MTH 431
Spring—MTH 420, MTH 432
FOURTH YEAR
Fall or Spring—One 300/400-level mathematics course (not MTH 417), two 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
Mathematics - B.A.
Concentration GS/AM: General Study in Applied Mathematics
About the Concentration
This concentration describes a course of study for mathematics majors intending to pursue graduate study in applied mathematics. Admission to this concentration is by departmental approval only. See the director of undergraduate studies regarding approval.
Acceptance Criteria
A minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Advising Notes
MTH 311-MTH 431-MTH 432 and MTH 419 are abstract theoretical courses emphasizing proofs. A student must do well in MTH 311 to enter this program.
Students planning to go to graduate school should meet with the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics in the fall semester of their junior year. They should plan to take the GREs in either spring of the junior year, or fall of the senior year.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
CSE 115 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors I
CSE 116 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors II
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 418 Survey of Partial Differential Equations or MTH 449 Introduction to Partial Differential Equations
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I or MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I
MTH 432 Introduction to Real Variables II
Three 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
PHY 107 General Physics I
PHY 108 General Physics II
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (concentration GS/AM): 65-67
(seventeen courses in math and related areas)
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—CSE 115, MTH 141, PHY 107
Spring—CSE 116, MTH 142, PHY 108
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241, MTH 309
Spring—MTH 306, MTH 311
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 419 or MTH 420; MTH 431
Spring—MTH 418 or MTH 449; MTH 432
FOURTH YEAR
Fall or Spring—Three 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science (not MTH 417)
Mathematics - Economics - B.A.
Program M/E: Joint Major in Mathematics/Economics
About the Concentration
This is a program for students intending graduate study in economics. Acceptance into this program requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 in both the mathematics and economics courses during the first year. Separate applications must be submitted to both the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Economics. Admission to this program is by departmental approval only. See the director of undergraduate studies regarding approval.
Acceptance Criteria
A minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Advising Notes
A student must be able to handle MTH 311 to enter this program. Students should consult the advisor in each department concerning senior-level courses. Exceptions in the curriculum may be allowed through consultation with the appropriate department. Interested students should contact the departments upon application for up-to-date information on possible changes.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
ECO 405 Microeconomic Theory
ECO 407 Macroeconomic Theory or ECO 337 Honors Macroeconomic Theory
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 411 Probability Theory
MTH 412 Introduction to Statistical Inference
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I or MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I
One 300/400-level mathematics course (not MTH 417)
Two 300/400-level courses in economics (not ECO 480 or ECO 481)
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major (program M/E): 58-61
(fifteen courses in math and economics)
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—MTH 141
Spring—MTH 142
SECOND YEAR
Fall—ECO 407 or ECO 337; MTH 241
Spring—ECO 405, MTH 306, MTH 309, MTH 311
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 411, MTH 431
Spring—MTH 412; MTH 419 or MTH 420
FOURTH YEAR
Fall or Spring—One 300/400-level mathematics course (not MTH 417), two 300/400-level courses in economics (not ECO 480 or ECO 481)
Mathematics - B.A.
Concentration GS/ED: General Study in Mathematics and Education
About the Concentration
This concentration is designed for the student whose career goal is to attain a master’s degree for professional certification in adolescent mathematics education. Students interested in this concentration should obtain advisement from the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics, 233 Mathematics Building, and, for questions related to the education courses, from the Teacher Education Institute (TEI), 375 Baldy Hall.
Admission to the major must be sought from the Department of Mathematics, usually in the student’s second year. For advice on prerequisites for required courses in education and selection of general education courses fulfilling the State Education Department (SED) requirement for prospective teachers, students should consult with TEI as early as their freshman year.
Completion of the major concentration (including the required education courses) provides advanced status toward initial New York State teacher certification, accomplished through one year of subsequent coursework at the graduate level through the Graduate School of Education. It is then possible to complete, within the state-mandated three years, the master’s degree required for a professional teaching certificate, provided that all NYS requirements have been successfully completed.
Acceptance Criteria
A minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Advising Notes
The courses in this concentration are more theoretical than those in concentration C; MTH 311, MTH 419, and MTH 431 are difficult. A student must be able to handle MTH 311 in order to enter this concentration. Warning: In order to graduate with a degree in mathematics in concentration GS/ED, a student must complete all the required education courses, as well as the required mathematics courses. Students who complete concentration GS/ED math requirements but do not complete the education requirements must change to the basic curriculum or to another concentration in order to graduate. It is recommended that students interested in this concentration contact the department upon application for up-to-date information on possible changes in requirements.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
CEP 400 Educational Psychology
CSE 113 Introduction to Computer Science I or CSE 115 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors I
CSE 114 Introduction to Computer Science II or CSE 116 Introduction to Computer Science for Majors II
ELP 405 Sociology of Education
LAI 350 Introduction to Education
LAI 414 Language, Cognition & Writing
MTH 191/CSE 191 Introduction to Discrete Mathematics
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 335 Elements of Geometry
MTH 411 Probability Theory
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra I
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables I
One 300/400-level mathematics elective (not MTH 417)
Two 300/400-level electives from the Educational Leadership and Policy department or the Counseling, School, and Educational Psychology department, or one education-related College of Arts and Sciences course
Summary
Total required credit hours for the major: 74-75
(fourteen courses in math and related areas)
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—CSE 113 or CSE 115; MTH 141
Spring—CSE 114 or CSE 116; MTH 142
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241, MTH 191/CSE 191
Spring—LAI 350, MTH 311, MTH 306
THIRD YEAR
Fall—MTH 309, MTH 431
Spring—CEP 400, ELP 405, MTH 335
FOURTH YEAR
Fall—LAI 414, MTH 411, MTH 419
Spring—One 300/400-level mathematics elective (not MTH 417); two 300/400-level electives from the Educational Leadership and Policy or Counseling, School, and Educational Psychology departments, or one education-related College of Arts and Sciences course
Mathematics - B.A./M.A.
About the Program
This program is designed for students who demonstrate, in their first two years of mathematical study, a high level of competence and motivation. Upon admission to the BA/MA program, students follow an integrated course of study leading to a combined degree. Admission to this program is by departmental approval only and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in mathematics courses (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra) as well as letters of recommendation.
Acceptance Criteria
A minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses.
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
MTH 311 Basic Analysis and Proofs
MTH 519 Introduction to Algebra I
MTH 520 Introduction to Algebra II
MTH 531 Introduction to Real Variables I
MTH 532 Introduction to Real Variables II
Three 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science. At least one of these must be a mathematics course other than MTH 417. Electives require approval by the director of undergraduate studies.
Six graduate-level courses, including at least 12 credits in mathematics. Included must be at least one year-long sequence in mathematics at the 500 level or above (other than 519-520 or 531-532). Electives require approval by the director of graduate studies.
Summary
Total required credit hours for the undergraduate portion: 33-36
Total required credit hours for the B.A./M.A.: 63-66
See Baccalaureate Degree Requirements for general education and remaining university requirements.
Refer to the Graduate School's Policies and Procedures Manual for Master's Candidate Requirements.
Recommended Sequence of Program Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall—MTH 141
Spring—MTH 142
SECOND YEAR
Fall—MTH 241, MTH 309
Spring—MTH 306, MTH 311
THIRD YEAR
Fall and Spring—Three 300/400-level courses in mathematics or computer science. At least one of these must be a mathematics course other than MTH 417. Electives require approval by the director of undergraduate studies in mathematics.
FOURTH YEAR
Fall—MTH 519, MTH 531
Spring—MTH 520, MTH 532
FIFTH YEAR
Fall and Spring—Six graduate-level math electives, including at least 12 credits in mathematics. Included must be at least one year-long sequence in mathematics at the 500 level or above (other than MTH 519-MTH 520 or MTH 531-MTH 532). Electives require approval by the director of graduate studies.
Project or thesis (up to 6 credits of the 18 credits of graduate level electives may be used for MTH 800 Thesis Guidance.)
Mathematics - Minor
Acceptance Criteria
Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses (or approved transfer equivalent).
Prerequisite Courses
MTH 141 College Calculus I
MTH 142 College Calculus II
MTH 241 College Calculus III
Required Courses
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential Equations
MTH 309 Introductory Linear Algebra
Two additional 300/400-level mathematics electives from within the Department of Mathematics
Note: A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required in these courses for departmental recommendation for a minor in mathematics.
Summary
Total required credit hours for the minor: 26-28
(7 courses from within the Mathematics department)
Course Descriptions
MTH 115 Survey of Algebra and TrigonometryCredits: 4 | MTH 117 Applications of Mathematical ConceptsCredits: 3 | |
MTH 119 Survey of Finite MathematicsCredits: 4 | MTH 120 Selected Topics in CalculusCredits: 1 | |
MTH 121 Survey of Calculus and its Applications ICredits: 4 | MTH 122 Survey of Calculus and Its Applications IICredits: 4 | |
MTH 131 Mathematical Analysis for ManagementCredits: 4 | MTH 141 College Calculus ICredits: 4 | |
MTH 142 College Calculus IICredits: 4 | MTH 153 Honors Calculus ICredits: 4 | |
MTH 154 Honors Calculus IICredits: 4 | MTH 172 Principles of Mathematical ComputingCredits: 4 | |
MTH 181 Conceptual Mathematics ICredits: 3 | MTH 191 Introduction to Discrete Mathematics ICredits: 4 | |
MTH 192 Introduction to Discrete Mathematics IICredits: 4 | MTH 241 College Calculus IIICredits: 4 | |
MTH 251 Honors Calculus IIICredits: 4 | MTH 272 Mathematics of Data ManipulationCredits: 4 | |
MTH 306 Introduction to Differential EquationsCredits: 4 | MTH 309 Introductory Linear AlgebraCredits: 4 | |
MTH 310 Applications of Linear AlgebraCredits: 4 | MTH 311 Basic Analysis and ProofsCredits: 4 | |
MTH 313 Elements of Set TheoryCredits: 4 | MTH 314 Logic for Computer ScienceCredits: 3 | |
MTH 335 Elements of GeometryCredits: 4 | MTH 336 Projective GeometryCredits: 4 | |
MTH 337 Introduction to Scientific ComputingCredits: 4 | MTH 343 CodesCredits: 3 | |
MTH 353 Introduction to Combinatorics ICredits: 3 | MTH 354 Introduction to Combinatorics IICredits: 3 | |
MTH 411 Probability TheoryCredits: 4 | MTH 412 Introduction to Statistical InferenceCredits: 4 | |
MTH 413 Introduction to Mathematical Logic ICredits: 3 | MTH 414 Introduction to Mathematical Logic IICredits: 3 | |
MTH 417 Survey of Multivariable CalculusCredits: 4 | MTH 418 Survey of Partial Differential EquationsCredits: 4 | |
MTH 419 Introduction to Algebra ICredits: 4 | MTH 420 Introduction to Algebra IICredits: 4 | |
MTH 425 Introduction to Complex Variables ICredits: 3 | MTH 426 Introduction to Complex Variables IICredits: 3 | |
MTH 427 Introduction to Topology ICredits: 3 | MTH 428 Introduction to Topology IICredits: 3 | |
MTH 429 Introduction to the Theory of Numbers ICredits: 3 | MTH 430 Introduction to the Theory of Numbers IICredits: 3 | |
MTH 431 Introduction to Real Variables ICredits: 4 | MTH 432 Introduction to Real Variables IICredits: 4 | |
MTH 434 Basic Measure TheoryCredits: 3 | MTH 435 Introduction to CryptographyCredits: 3 | |
MTH 437 Introduction to Numerical Analysis ICredits: 4 | MTH 438 Introduction to Numerical Analysis IICredits: 4 | |
MTH 443 Fundamentals of Applied Mathematics ICredits: 4 | MTH 444 Fundamentals of Applied Mathematics IICredits: 4 | |
MTH 445 Ordinary Differential EquationsCredits: 3 | MTH 449 Introduction to Partial Differential EquationsCredits: 3 | |
MTH 451 Design Process and MethodsCredits: 3 | MTH 455 Mathematical ModelingCredits: 3 | |
MTH 456 The Mathematics of VotingCredits: 3 | MTH 457 Problem Solving SeminarCredits: 3 | |
MTH 458 Mathematical FinanceCredits: 3 | MTH 459 Mathematical Finance 2Credits: 3 | |
MTH 460 Theory of GamesCredits: 4 | MTH 461 Topics on AlgebraCredits: 3 | |
MTH 462 Topics on AnalysisCredits: 3 | MTH 463 Topics on Applied MathematicsCredits: 3 | |
MTH 464 Topics on Combinatorial AnalysisCredits: 3 | MTH 465 Lectures on GeometryCredits: 3 | |
MTH 466 Topics on Logic and Set TheoryCredits: 3 | MTH 467 Topics on Number TheoryCredits: 3 | |
MTH 468 Topics on Numerical AnalysisCredits: 3 | MTH 469 Topics on TopologyCredits: 3 | |
MTH 495 Topics in MathematicsCredits: 0 | MTH 497 Honors Thesis in MathematicsCredits: 4 | |
MTH 498 Internship in MathematicsCredits: 1 - 4 | MTH 499 Independent StudyCredits: 1 - 4 | |
Updated: Nov 16, 2005 10:49:25 AM