Mathematical Sciences Introductory Courses

Scores from advanced placement exams (AP, IB and Cambridge), combined with scores from the online placement test, are used to place incoming students into one of the following three calculus courses:

• 21-120 Differential and Integral Calculus (Similar to AP/AB, but more sophisticated.)
• 21-122 Integration, Differential Equations and Approximation (Similar to AP/BC, but more sophisticated.)
• 21-259 Calculus in Three Dimensions (Calculus of 2 and 3 variables.)

Students who are interested in majoring in mathematics and who have been placed into 21-259 and have a combined Math SAT I & II score of 1550 or greater might consider taking 21-242 Matrix Theory and 21-127 Concepts of Math in the Fall instead of 21-259. Matrix Theory is an Honors course that will emphasize proofs and mathematical reasoning.

After taking Matrix Theory in the Fall, students would have the option of taking Honors Multivariable Calculus in the Spring. The Honors Multivariable class will study the calculus of functions from n-dimensional space to m-dimensional space in great generality.

Students interested in majoring in Mathematics should take 21-127, Concepts of Mathematics, in the fall or spring of their first year. Concepts of Mathematics is an introduction to proofs and abstract mathematics that will lay the foundation for your future studies.

In the second year of study, talented and motivated students will have the opportunity to take Honors courses in abstract algebra and real analysis. The typical enrollment in these classes is 12 to 15 students.

These courses are quite rigorous and demanding, so permission from the Department of Mathematical Sciences is required to enroll in them.

Our Honors Program

This program offers exceptionally talented and ambitious students the opportunity to complete a masters degree in Mathematical Sciences at the same time as their undergraduate degree. It requires taking five graduate mathematics courses and writing a thesis. Nearly all such students have completed Honors courses in Mathematics.

Teaching Opportunity

Some of our most capable undergraduates are offered the opportunity to be teaching assistants for basic courses. This is an excellent opportunity - it not only looks good to graduate schools but teaching others often helps your own learning.

Putnam Team

The Department sponsors a team in the annual intercollegiate Putnam Mathematical Competition. A seminar to train participants is offered every Fall. Our team finished eighth in 2005.

Secondary Certification

Certification to teach mathematics at the secondary level is available through Chatham, a neighboring college.