HELP 2012-2013 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG] Mathematical Sciences Print-Friendly Page (opens a new window)

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Mission

The mission of the Mathematical Sciences program is to provide a quality education that blends theory and practice to produce a mathematician who can enter and pursue a successful career in one of the many mathematical fields or pursue an advanced degree in a mathematical science. Our mathematics graduates will be prepared to meet the demands of the growing number of quantitative and data-based sciences.

The mathematician makes definitions and hypotheses, then traces out their logical consequences. This “mathematical method” can be applied to any object of thought, including thought itself. The mathematics student will learn to use this method for  solving problems in science and technology, as well as in mathematics. The rise in automation and computing has contributed to an increase in the importance of mathematics in society. Those who combine sound mathematical training with a well-rounded education are in demand. Professional opportunities, both in secondary school teaching and industrial and government positions, are open to college graduates with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics. Professional advancement in these positions usually requires graduate study or on the- job training. Many industries provide for such efforts.

Industry – The primary function of a mathematician in industry is as a consultant. In this capacity, the consultant cooperates with engineers,scientists and management, and must be able to discuss problems with them in their language.

Teaching – Students wishing to earn a teaching certificate may earn a bachelor’s degree at Montana Tech but must continue on at another college to complete their certification requirements.

Educational Objectives

1. Provide solid background in the mathematics that is needed to solve real-world mathematical and quantitative problems.
2. Train students to understand and apply a wide range of mathematical methods to solve problems of a quantitative nature.
3. Prepare students to adapt to an ever changing world and its demands for data analysis, quantitative, and analytical skills.

Outcomes

1. Graduates will be prepared to assume positions as mathematicians in education, industry, or government upon graduation.
2. Graduates will be able to select appropriate mathematical methods to solve quantitative problems.
3. Graduates entering industry will be able to recognize the need for quantitative information and apply it to problem solving and data analysis in real world situations.
4. Graduates entering graduate programs in mathematics and statistics will be well trained in the fundamentals and theory of modern mathematics.

Assessment

The Mathematical Sciences program believes that the quality of an academic program is ultimately defined by the long-term success of its graduates. We believe that if our graduates meet our goals, they will be well prepared for a career in a mathematical field and be very successful in their career. The outcomes listed above are constantly assessed through course evaluations, student satisfaction surveys, placement rates, and department discussions of the mathematics curriculum. Thus, the goal of our assessment program is to insure we maintain our mission and continuously improve our curriculum in order that the graduates of our program achieve the goals of the program.

Programs

• Mathematical Sciences, B.S.

• Mathematics Minor
• Statistics Minor

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