Mathematics

In brief terms, mathematics is not something a student takes, but something which he or she discovers and creates. Whether a student wants to teach math, plans graduate study, plans to apply mathematics in a math intensive field, or desires the ability to reason analytically, the study of mathematics adds up to an intellectual experience which, from the abacus to the rocket, has been essential to civilization.
The Mathematics Department offers an undergraduate program in mathematics to prepare students for graduate study, or careers in secondary education or industry. Students majoring in elementary education may also select a Mathematics minor.
Chair: Luther Qson, Ph.D.

Mission Statement

The mathematics department at The College of St. Scholastica seeks to support the mission of the College by providing instruction imbued with Benedictine values, in courses that engage students, foster their analytic ability, expose them to the power of mathematics as a lens for viewing reality, and empower them to continue their educations after they graduate. In particular, the mathematics department strives to:

1. Prepare math majors with a solid mathematical foundation and the ability to apply their knowledge in a math-related career, secondary math teaching, or advanced studies.
2. Provide strong supporting courses for Natural Science majors.
3. Provoke in students taking general education courses an awareness of mathematics in the world around them and a greater ability to solve problems and make informed decisions.
4. Prepare elementary education majors to be effective math teachers by developing their mathematical background in alignment with state standards.

Mathematics major, BA

Preparation for graduate studies in math or a career in a math-related field: Math 2221, 2222, 2401, 3321, 3322, 4332, 4411, 4500, 12 additional upper level MTH credits, and CIS 2085. Other options may be designed in consultation with the mathematics department, they should contain an equivalent amount of math coursework numbered 2221 and above. Students preparing for a job in a math-related field are encouraged to pursue a minor or second major, and pick supporting mathematics coursework in consultation with their advisor. Particularly, those interested in actuarial science should begin conversation about an appropriate course of study as soon as possible with their math advisors.

Middle/Secondary Mathematics Education major

Students pursuing a middle and secondary mathematics teaching licensure must fulfill their mathematics major through the following courses to meet state teacher education requirements: MTH 2221, 2222, 2401, 3321, 3302, 3322, 3533/5, 4411, 4332, 4421 and 4500; CIS 2085 or demonstrated mastery of a high level computer language approved by the department. Math Education students should also review the Secondary Education Licensure Program requirements published by the Education Department for required coursework in Education.

Mathematics minor

A Mathematics minor will consist of 20 credits of coursework with a minimum grade of C, including Math 2221, Math 2222, and any 12 additional credits from MTH courses numbered 2401 and above.
Elementary Education majors who are pursuing a math minor are encouraged to enroll in Discrete Math (2401), Geometry (3302), and Mathematics Teaching Methods (3533/5) for their additional 12 credits, as these are especially appropriate in preparing them to teach at a middle school level.

Careers in Math

Academic Opportunities

• Middle Grades
• High School
• Junior or Community College
• College or University

The Mathematician in Government or Industry

• Mathematical Research
• Mathematical Statistics
• Operations Research
• Computer Programming
• Atmospheric Research
• Administration
• Civil Service (Mathematician, Mathematical Statistician, Operations Research, Personnel, Actuary, Cryptographer)
• Department of Defense (Applied Research & Development, Basic Research, Administration, Operations Research)

Engineer

• Aeronautical
• Civil
• Industrial
• Nuclear
• Chemical
• Electrical
• Mechanical

Opportunities in the Actuarial Profession

• Insurance Companies
• Consulting Firms
• National Ratemaking Organizations
• Academic Institutions
• Casualty Actuary
• Government Agency (Social Security Administration, Industrial Quality Control)

General Job Opportunities

• Military
• Self-employment
• Non-Profit Research Corporations
• Computer Scientists
• Insurance Companies, Computing Firms, Utility Companies, Private Research Agencies, Industrial and Governmental Laboratories

For Further Information

If you would like more information about our program or financial aid contact:

Admissions Office
The College of St. Scholastica
1200 Kenwood Avenue
Duluth, Minnesota 55811
(218) 723-6046 or 1-800-447-5444
TTY/TDD (218) 723-6790
e-mail: admissions@css.edu

Visitors are always welcome! To help us best plan for your visit, please call us in advance.

The College of St. Scholastica is an equal opportunity educator and employer.