Undergraduate

Mathematics

With a major in mathematics, you can develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing you for success..

Why Study Mathematics?

At Assumption, mathematics students devise solutions to complex problems under the instruction of our expert faculty. Whether you’re interested in a career in fields ranging from business to engineering to teaching, you’ll have the opportunity to study math and understand its real-world application in a stimulating and supportive environment. 

Mathematics at Assumption

Study a variety of fields, including calculus, probability, algebra, and analysis. Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Math is at the foundation of nearly everything we do. From science to business to everyday life, we depend on math to keep our world running.

This program is designed to help students demonstrate reasoning skills necessary to understand and write proofs of mathematical theorems, present mathematical arguments in oral form, and demonstrate problem-solving proficiency and mastery of fundamental content knowledge in mathematics. 

Learn about Assumption University’s Mathematics Academy Leadership in Teaching Program.

Program Contact

Brooke Andersen, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Mathematics
508-767-7595 Founders Hall - Room 129

Program Curriculum

  • Students pursuing a major in mathematics take a total of twelve (12) courses (36 credits).

    The major consists of a total of twelve (12) required courses, which comprise eight specifically required courses, four electives, and a comprehensive examination. Students considering a major in mathematics are encouraged to take MAT 131–132 rather than MAT 117–118 in their first year.

    Required Courses

    MAT 131-132/MAT 117-118 Honors Calculus I and II OR Calculus I and II
    MAT 231-232 Calculus III and Multivariable Calculus
    MAT 202 Discrete Structures
    MAT 203 Linear Algebra
    MAT 401 Mathematics Seminar
    CSC 117/CSC120 Introduction to Programming OR Statistics Programming

    Electives

    A minimum of four additional mathematics courses numbered above 200 or PHY 213 Introduction to Engineering. At least two electives must be 300-level courses, including at least one course chosen from:

    MAT 332 Real Analysis
    MAT 351 Modern Algebra I
    MAT 358 Topology

    SENIOR MATH ASSESSMENT

    Each mathematics major must pass a comprehensive examination administered at the end of the senior year. The exam is based on material covered in the required courses.

    The required courses are offered every year. Elective courses are offered in alternate years. Students should consult with an advisor in the department to plan their program.

    Additional Information

  • A minor in mathematics consists of six (6) courses (18 credits).

    Required Courses

    MAT 131-132/MAT 117-118 Honors Calculus I and II or Calculus I and II
    MAT 202 Discrete Structures

    Three additional courses from the mathematics courses numbered above 200 with at least one course numbered above 300.

    Course Descriptions

  • Students interested in the education double major should consult with the chairperson of the Mathematics Department and the Education Program Coordinator in the Education Department to plan a course of study.

    The required courses for the major and the following elective courses address the subject matter knowledge prescribed by the Massachusetts Department of Education for the field of licensure.

    MAT 204 Number Theory (licensure for grades 8–12)
    MAT 208 Probability Theory (licensure for grades 8–12)
    MAT 351 Modern Algebra I (licensure for grades 8–12)
    MAT 353 Advanced Euclidean Geometry (licensure for grades 5–8, 8–12)
    ECO 115/PSY 265 Statistics or Statistics (licensure for grades 5–8, 8–12)

     

    MAJOR IN MATHEMATICS, ELEMENTARY EDUCATION TRACK (10)

    The Elementary Track applies only to those students who are pursuing a concurrent Major in Education with a licensure emphasis in Elementary (1–6). If a student withdraws from the Education Major, then the option to pursue the Elementary Track in the Mathematics Major no longer applies. Mathematics Majors who are pursuing licensure in Middle/Secondary Education (5–8; 8–12) would still take the standard 12 courses required Mathematics Major, as given above.

     REQUIRED COURSES (6)

    MAT 117 / MAT 131 H Calculus I / Honors Calculus I
    MAT 118 / MAT 132 H Calculus II / Honors Calculus II
    MAT 150 Numbers and Operations for Educators
    MAT 231 Calculus III
    MAT 202 Discrete Structures
    MAT 203 Linear Algebra

    Senior Mathematics Assessment (Comprehensive Exam, not a course – Fall and Spring)

    ELECTIVES (4)

    Take at least one of:

    MAT 332 Real Analysis
    MAT 351 Modern Algebra
    MAT 358 Topology

    Take at least one of:

    MAT 352 Modern Algebra
    MAT 353 Adv. Euclidean Geometry
    MAT 355 Differential Equations
    MAT 356 Numerical Analysis
    MAT 402 Mathematics Thesis

    Take at least one of:

    MAT 204 Number Theory*
    MAT 207 Actuarial Mathematics
    MAT 208 Probability Theory*
    PHY 213 Intro to Engineering

    * recommended elective for Elementary Education track

    ADVISING TIPS FOR THE MAJOR IN MATHEMATICS

    ELEMENTARY EDUCATION TRACK

    • Students interested in the mathematics major should follow their math placement and take Calculus I as early as possible, because it is part of the major required sequence MAT117/MAT131H, 118/MAT132H, 231, 232.
    • Students considering a major in mathematics are encouraged to take MAT 131H/132H rather than MAT117/118 in their first year.
  • Students in mathematics or computer science may choose to take advantage of Assumption’s engineering partnership with the University of Notre Dame or at Washington University in St. Louis, two of the nation’s leading engineering universities.

    • Apply your classroom learning to real-world situations. Over 70% of students completed an internship last year.
    • Benefit from small class sizes that allow faculty to know your strengths and help you achieve your goals.
    • Share your love of mathematics with future students by completing a double major in mathematics and education.
    • Consider a minor in data analytics, which will enhance your resume and make you a valuable asset to any company.
    • Prepare for a successful career as an actuary when you graduate with certifications needed to enter the field

    Attend competitive graduate schools such as:

    • Fordham University
    • North Carolina State University
    • Northeastern University
    • University of Pittsburgh
    • Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Faculty

Brooke Andersen, Ph.D.
Department Chair, Mathematics and Computer Science Associate Professor of Mathematics
Joseph Alfano, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Kyle Evans
Visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Dana James
Adjunct Faculty Mathematics
Jean-Marie Johnson
Adjunct Faculty Mathematics
Suzanne L. Kozak
Assistant Professor of Practice, Mathematics
Raul Laborde
Adjunct Faculty Mathematics
Annette Lemerise
Adjunct Faculty Mathematics
Karen A. McGrail
Adjunct Faculty Mathematics

Pathways to Success

Discover some of the organizations where Assumption mathematics graduates are making a difference

The Hanover Insurance Group

Meditech

Oracle

Raytheon

And area school districts

First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting

Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.


Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.


The Assumption University Mathematics Academy (AUMA)

The Assumption University Mathematics Academy (AUMA) is a weeklong summer day camp for local first and second-year high school students to have fun with mathematics and learn in a hands-on environment. AUMA is directed by Assumption faculty and facilitated by Assumption undergraduates.   THE ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY MATHEMATICS ACADEMY (AUMA)

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