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Mathematics Major

Description

Mathematics is the science of shape, quantity, and patterns, and has evolved to encompass many different fields, including Algebra, Analysis, Geometry, Probability, Applied Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling, and Statistics. The mathematics major trains students to think critically and to solve complex problems, preparing them for graduate study in pure or applied mathematics or for a range of professions. Recent graduates who have majored in mathematics have found rewarding careers in business, teaching, computing, government, law, engineering, data science, actuarial science and medicine. A study of mathematics is a natural complement to the study of physics, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, earth science, business, economics computer science, philosophy, and the social sciences. Mathematics is also a fitting major for pre-law and pre-med students. The mathematics major is recommended for any student who enjoys problem solving.

To complete the traditional major in mathematics, students take 10 required courses that provide a thorough foundation in several central areas of mathematics, a computer science course that emphasizes the design of algorithms, and a minimum of three advanced courses chosen to give special depth in at least one area.

More details concerning the mathematics major, including sample programs of study and information on advisement, student awards, computing facilities, research opportunities, competitions, and the Mathematics Club, can be found on the department website

Admission to the Program

Any undergraduate student can declare the major in mathematics.

Students who have successfully completed a calculus course in high school may qualify for college credit for MTH 201 Calculus I. Qualifying students should contact the department if they have questions before they register for their first calculus course at Brockport.

Program Requirements

Students in the mathematics major pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree, and must complete the corresponding degree’s requirements.

Because of the sequential nature of the study of mathematics, students should meet with the department’s advisement coordinator as soon as possible to declare the major, be assigned a departmental advisor, and plan an academic program.

Traditional Major in Mathematics

General Education Requirements Outside of Major (27* credits)

Major program Requirements (47 credits)

Required Courses (34 credits)

Mathematics Elective Courses (9 credits)

Three mathematics courses numbered MTH 400 or higher by advisement.

CSC 483 may be substituted for one of these math courses.

Cognate Requirements (4 credits)

Prerequisite Requirements (0 – 11 credits)

* Denotes courses that meet both major and general education requirements

Electives (18-29 credits)

Total Credits (120 credits)

Additional Degree Requirements

For the traditional major:

  1. Mathematics majors are required to pass the following four courses with a minimum grade of “C”: MTH 201 Calculus I, MTH 202 Calculus II, MTH 281 Discrete Mathematics I, and MTH 324 Linear Algebra.
  2. Students pursuing Adolescence Education Certification are required by the New York State Department of Education to complete a geometry course; thus, such students are recommended to select the option MTH 432 College Geometry.
  3. At least fifteen major credits must be taken at Brockport. At least nine math credits at the 400 level must be completed at Brockport. Also at least one of the following mathematics courses must be taken at Brockport: MTH 425 Abstract Algebra, MTH 430 Topology, MTH 432 College Geometry, MTH 471 Numerical Analysis I, MTH 446 Probability and Statistics II, MTH 457 Real analysis.
  4. If a Brockport student wishes to fill some requirement of the major through coursework at an institution other than Brockport, the student must first obtain the approval of the department chairperson.
  5. A minimum overall GPA of 2.0 in all required major courses (Major Departmental Requirements).
  6. Completion of all college-wide degree requirements

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, 

  1. Students are expected to carry out the creative and explorative processes of mathematics, including being able to interpret and construct rigorous proofs.
  2. Students are expected to use mathematics to model real-world problems and utilize technology as appropriate.
  3. Students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the importance of active engagement and civic responsibility beyond the classroom through knowledge and real-world experience gained in the academic field of mathematics.