Mathematics, B.A.

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The Mathematics major at SUNY Potsdam blends well with engineering, economics, physics, chemistry, computer science, music, and many other disciplines. The Mathematics program is based on the belief that students can succeed if they are provided with a supportive environment. The department faculty offer students continual encouragement, provide careful and considerate teaching methods, and sufficient time to develop intellectually. This approach fosters the type of thinking skills, attitude, and discipline that has enabled students to pursue rewarding careers such as banking, insurance, and research and all levels of teaching.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:

Mathematics B.A. students will be able to:

   • write proofs and provide counterexamples (to disprove statements) where appropriate.
   • present mathematics correctly.
   • have a fundamental knowledge of algebra and analysis.
   • portray a positive attitude towards mathematics and approach challenging problems with enthusiasm.

Program Requirements

Required Courses: 27 - 31 Credits

MATH 151 - Calculus I 4 Credit(s)
or
MATH 141 - Integrated calculus IA 4 Credit(s) and
MATH 142 - Integrated Calculus IB 4 Credit(s)
MATH 152 - Calculus II 4 Credit(s)
MATH 253 - Multivariate Calculus 4 Credit(s)
MATH 340 - Set Theory and Logic 3 Credit(s)
MATH 375 - Linear Algebra I 3 Credit(s)
MATH 423 - Modern Algebra I 3 Credit(s)
MATH 451 - Advanced Calculus I 3 Credit(s)
MATH 460 - Problem Seminar 3 Credit(s)

Elective Courses: 6 Credits

One Mathematics Course at the 300-500 Level

Note 1: MATH 547 - Theory of Sets may be elected only upon recommendation of mathematics faculty.
Note 2: A student who is also preparing to be a teacher should choose either MATH 404 - Elements of Geometry or MATH 553 - Concepts of Geometry to satisfy this elective.

One Course from the Following List

One course from the following list to be taken only after the student has completed MATH 340 , MATH 375 , MATH 423 and MATH 451 or instructor permission is required.

MATH 424 - Modern Algebra 2 3 Credit(s)
MATH 452 - Advanced Calculus II 3 Credit(s)
MATH 526 - Linear Algebra II 3 Credit(s)

Honors Program

Honors Mathematics Program

Recommended Coursework Outside the Major

Depending on students’ educational and professional objectives, they should consider taking courses in statistics and/or computer science to complement their studies in mathematics. In particular, students who plan to major or minor in Computer Science should register for CIS 201 as early as possible. Other majors are strongly advised to register for CIS 201 the semester after completing MATH 340 . Students are encouraged to consult closely with a departmental adviser in course selections.

Note(s)

30 hours of required courses for the mathematics major must be completed with a numerical minimum grade of 2.0. The remaining three hours may be completed with a minimum grade of 2.0/S. Students are advised to complete the required courses for a numerical grade.
Transfer students who have fewer than 12 credit hours total in Calculus I, II and Multivariate Calculus should consult the chair of the department.
All prerequisite requirements for mathematics courses must be completed with a minimum grade of 2.0/S.