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Mathematics, B.S.

Program Description

The Department offers several options for students who are interested in the study of mathematics. Our traditional Mathematics Bachelor of Science program prepares students for a wide variety of career choices and for further study of mathematics in graduate school. In conjunction with the Education Department, we offer a Bachelor of Arts Mathematics program for students who wish to obtain secondary education teaching certification in mathematics. Details on the required courses for each of these programs are given below. In addition to the traditional mathematics program, our department offers a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science, which prepares students for careers as Actuaries. For more information on the Actuarial Science program, please see its separate catalog entry.

Mission Statement

Our mission is in accord with the mission of the University. Learning has the highest priority in the Mathematics program. Our mission is to help our students to observe reality with precision, to think logically, and to communicate effectively. With the ultimate goal of developing our students as self-learners, members of our faculty strive to research and implement teaching strategies that effectively serve the mathematics population.

Students should leave La Salle prepared to enter professional fields that utilize their mathematics education. In addition, students who demonstrate the ability and determination to continue academically will be prepared to pursue graduate studies. We expect that participants in our programs, both students and faculty, will expand their thirst for learning and develop a deeper appreciation and respect for related disciplines. To these ends, we work to provide a classical foundation in the core of the discipline, introduce current theories, research areas, and technologies, and demonstrate the links between theory and its embodiment in the world of applications.

Why Take This Major?

The mathematics major helps one to think logically, to formulate complex problems in a well-defined manner, to critically analyze data, and to determine optimal solutions to real-world problems. All of these skills are transferable to a wide variety of careers that make mathematicians highly sought after in the work force. Mathematics majors often pursue careers as actuaries, statisticians, financial analysts, and teachers, but they are also well-prepared to enter the workforce in a much wider range of career fields.