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Major in Mathematical Sciences
The Mathematical Sciences major is a broad and flexible major with an applied focus. Because it gives students lots of choices, the major can be tailored to diverse interests. Math-Sci majors should work closely with their advisors to devise a selection of courses which has a well-defined theme and which focuses on their areas of particular interest.
Major Requirements
Required Courses
- Completion of one year of calculus
- Linear Algebra (MA253)
- Introduction to Abstract Mathematical Thought (MA274)
- Vector Calculus (MA302)
- Structured Programming and Elementary Algorithms (CS151)
- One course chosen from among:
- Differential Equations (MA311)
- Numerical Analysis (MA332)
- Mathematical Modelling (MA372)
- Mathematical Statistics I (MA381)
- Data Structures and Algorithms (CS231)
The choice of the last required course should be viewed as establishing an overall "theme" for the major---see below.
Elective Courses
Four more three- or four-credit courses selected from Mathematics courses numbered 200 or above (excluding Mathematics 484). These may include the unchosen courses in item 6 above. In addition, with the written permission of the advisor, one (or, in exceptional cases, two) of these courses may be replaced by courses from another department which have significant mathematical content.
Planning your program
Since the Mathematical Sciences major is so open, it can and should be tailored to each students particular interests. Students should work with their advisors and with mathematics faculty to develop a program that is coherent and that contributes to their personal and professional goals. In particular:
- Students interested in teaching careers should contact Fernando Gouvêa.
- Students interested in focusing on Statistics or in preparing for an actuarial career should contact Liam O'Brien.
- Students interested in applied mathematics and related areas should contact Jan Holly.
- Students who want to combine this major with a major in another area should contact Fernando Gouvêa.
What can I do with a math-sci major?
Anything you like! The math-sci major should give you a broad background in the mathematical sciences, and employers seem to want people with good quantitative skills. In recent years, Colby mathematics graduates have gone on to pursue careers in management, actuarial science, banking, insurance, law, communications, the computer industry, economics, business administration, mathematics education, physics, and biomathematics. See our alumni page for news on where recent graduates have ended up. Finally, check out our page on mathematics-related careers for lots more information, including a list of Colby alumni willing to help with career decisions and job hunting.