Academic Programs / Majors

Mathematics

Program Details

• Major: Mathematics
• Degree Program: Mathematics
• Program Web Site
• Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Degree Designation: Bachelor's (B.A.)

Program Description

The bachelor of arts and the bachelor of science degrees in Mathematics are designed to convey both appreciation for and ability to use techniques and strategies of mathematical reasoning. In required courses, the mathematical structures that have led to more efficient organization and synthesis of mathematical knowledge are covered. Applications of mathematics are discussed in these courses and in elective courses.

The Mathematics Department supports its students in many ways. A team of undergraduates is always sponsored to participate in the Putnam Examination, a national intercollegiate mathematics competition. Many students gain experience by serving as tutors or graders for lower-level courses.

Departmental scholarship funds support upper-division majors who have done the most outstanding work. Between two and five students each year are given these prestigious awards.

Through the Institute for Math Learning, the Mathematics Department assists students in beginning Mathematics courses, free of charge. A study hall is staffed by graduate students and undergraduate assistants who give individual attention to those needing help.

Mathematics majors must complete at least 39 hours of approved courses in the mathematical sciences, plus a capstone requirement. For the bachelor of arts degree and the bachelor of science degree, the required courses are: MATH 155, 156, 251, 283, 343 or 441, 222 or 420, STAT 215 or 461, and two additional upper-division courses. These two courses may be selected from those numbered above 200 with the exclusion of MATH 231, 331, 332, and 455. It may be possible to substitute one of the two additional courses with an upper-division course offered by another department. The content of such a course must be at an advanced level mathematically and its acceptability will require prior departmental approval.

In addition, for the B.A. degree, students must take at least one of MATH 261 and 378 and at least two from MATH 341, 381, 451, 456. For the B.S. degree, students must complete MATH 261 and 451 and take at least one course from MATH 341, 381, 456. Students completing the B.A. program must complete WVU GEC requirements, Eberly College of Arts and Sciences B.A. requirements, major requirements (above), and electives to total 128 hours.

Career Profile

In 2000, there were about 3,600 jobs with the title mathematician; however, many workers have job titles reflecting their occupation or specialties instead. About 20,000 persons held full-time mathematics faculty positions in colleges and universities in 2000, according to the American Mathematical Society.

Most nonfaculty mathematicians work in government and in service and manufacturing industries. The Department of Defense is the primary federal employer of mathematicians; more than three-fourths of the mathematicians employed by the federal government work for the US Navy, Army, or Air Force.

In the private sector, major employers within service industries include research and testing services, educational services, and computer and data processing services. Within manufacturing, the aircraft, chemicals, and computer and office equipment industries are key employers. Some mathematicians also work for banks, insurance companies, and public utilities. Employment of mathematicians is expected to increase more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2005.

The number of jobs available for workers whose educational background is solely mathematics is not expected to increase significantly.

English Language Proficiency

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Please see Office of Admissions - English Language Proficiency for more information.

Apply Now

Prospective students should apply online at:
apply.wvu.edu.

Accreditation

WVU is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.