Mathematics, B.A.

1) Students will be able to analyze problems and formulate appropriate mathematical models in a variety of areas of Mathematics.
2) Students will be able to select and utilize appropriate mathematical technology with which to analyze mathematical problems in a wide variety of areas.
3) Students will be able to make rigorous mathematical arguments including how to both prove and disprove conjectures.
4) Students will critically read mathematics.
5) Students will be able to use the concepts of Analysis in solving problems. The fundamental concepts include sets, numbers, functions, and convergence.
6) Students will be able to use the concepts of Algebra in solving problems. The fundamental concepts include equations, numbers, and algebraic structures.
7) Students will be able to express themselves in writing in an articulate, sound, and well-organized fashion.
8) Students will be able to express themselves orally in an articulate, sound, and well-organized fashion.

General Education Requirements (30-46 Credits)

Prerequisite coursework may be required to satisfy certain General Education courses and will count as elective credit.

First Year Math Students

During the first semester at the College, incoming first year mathematics majors are advised to register in MATH 101.

Total Credits Required to Complete Major: 39-40

Basic Requirements (24 Credits)

Each of the following seven courses:

Required Options (9 Credits)

Three courses from the following:

Research and Presentation Requirement (0-1 Credits)

Note:

*The MATH 348 requirement may be waived if a student has:

  1. Made an oral presentation on a 300-level mathematical topic that has been assessed with the mathematics department rubric and found satisfactory;
    And
  2. Produced a researched paper that has been assessed with the mathematics department rubric and found satisfactory;
    And
  3. Evaluated a public mathematical talk using the mathematics department rubric. Forms and permission for such a waiver are available from the mathematics department chair.

Elective Requirements: (6 Credits)

Two additional 3 credit courses at the 300-level.

Math Minimum Competence Requirement

A grade of C- or better is required for ALL courses submitted in fulfillment of all major in Mathematics. Students may not enroll in any course having prerequisites unless the minimum grade of C- has been earned in the prerequisites or unless special permission has been granted in writing by the course instructor. Prerequisite courses may not be taken after successful completion of any subsequent course.

A student may repeat Math 223, Math 230, Math 233, or Math 239 only once for major credit, and it is recommended that the course be taken at the next offering of the class. After the repeat, there may be one appeal to the Chair of the Mathematics Department to take the course once more. If a student does not earn at least a “C-” on the second taking of the class (or third taking if the appeal is approved), then they will not be able to complete the major.

Math Mandatory Advisement

In addition to any Mandatory advisement required by the college, during their second year at Geneseo all math majors are required to attend one of the sophomore advisement sessions offered each semester by the Mathematics Department prior to registration. If for some reason, a student has not attended one by the second semester of their sophomore year, then they will have to meet with their advisors in order to have the mandatory hold removed.

Math Department Writing Requirement

MATH 239 and MATH 324 are two required courses in which mathematical writing is emphasized and taught. Writing opportunities (homework, quizzes, exams) will be graded for clear, precise exposition as well as for mathematical content. The department’s writing requirement is satisfied by successfully completing both of these courses.