Mathematics, Pure Mathematics Concentration, B.A.

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The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers a B.A. degree in mathematics. The program is designed to provide students with a broad background in mathematics and statistics. Students select one of three concentrations: applied mathematics and operations research, pure mathematics, or statistics. Students who would like to become certified to teach may select the secondary teacher education track. The Department also offers an accelerated graduate pathway, where students can earn both an undergraduate degree and the M.S. degree in statistics in five years by carefully selecting courses.

Mathematics majors intending to pursue graduate work in mathematics should consider the pure mathematics concentration and are urged to take Real Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Topology, and one year of French or German. Students intending to teach at the secondary level should choose this concentration and are urged to take Real Analysis, Abstract Algebra, and College Geometry.

Program Requirements

Minimum number of credits (exclusive of the University’s Core Curriculum) required for the Mathematics, Pure Mathematics Concentration major: 49.
Minimum grade requirement for major courses listed below: C-, although some required courses have prerequisites with a minimum grade of C.
Minimum GPA requirement for major courses listed below: 2.000.

A. Foundations (34 credits)

All students are required to successfully complete the foundations sequence listed below.

MAT 152 - Calculus A Credits: 4
MAT 153 - Calculus B Credits: 4
MAT 252 - Calculus C Credits: 4
MAT 281 - Introduction to Probability Credits: 3
MAT 282 - Statistical Inference Credits: 3
MAT 290 - Foundations of Mathematics Credits: 4
MAT 295 - Linear Algebra Credits: 4
MAT 350 - Differential Equations Credits: 4
COS 160 - Structured Problem Solving Credits: 4

B. Concentration (15 credits)

In addition to the requirements listed above, the following items are required for the pure mathematics concentration.

a. Successful completion of three courses listed below:

MAT 352 - Real Analysis Credits: 3
MAT 355 - Complex Analysis Credits: 3
MAT 371 - College Geometry Credits: 3
MAT 392 - Theory of Numbers Credits: 3
MAT 395 - Abstract Algebra Credits: 3
MAT 470 - Non-Euclidean Geometry Credits: 3
MAT 490 - Topology Credits: 3

b. Successful completion of at least two additional mathematics courses numbered 260 or above

Excluding MAT 380 - Probability and Statistics .

Major Courses that Satisfy Core Requirements

Students are encouraged to explore Core courses that also count towards their major or minor. Courses listed below are part of this major and also satisfy University Core Curriculum requirements. Course lists that satisfy each requirement can be found on the Core Curriculum webpage.

Writing, Reading, and Inquiry 3:
Quantitative Reasoning: MAT 152 Calculus A
Creative Expression:
Cultural Interpretation:
Science Exploration:
Socio-cultural Analysis:
Ethical Inquiry, Social Responsibility, and Citizenship:
Culture, Power, and Equity:
International:
Engaged Learning:
Capstone: MAT 352 Real Analysis ; MAT 371 College Geometry ; MAT 395 Abstract Algebra ; or MAT 490 Topology

USM Core Requirements

Students must complete all Core and degree requirements as part of the Graduation Requirements. For more information, see Academic Policies.

The USM Core Curriculum provides a coherent, integrative, and rigorous liberal arts education that fulfills general education requirements. It is designed to help students become globally aware, purposeful, and lifelong learners.

Please Note: Core requirements may be part of your major and/or minor, and Core may have been fulfilled with transfer credit. Please consult your MaineStreet Degree Progress Report (DPR) and review your degree progress with your Advisor. For additional information, access the USM Core webpage.