Mathematics Major

Electives

All electives must be approved by the student’s faculty mathematics advisor or the mathematics department chair. Approved courses from other departments at The Claremont Colleges are allowed.

Pure mathematics electives

• Analysis (courses numbered 130 to 139)
• Geometry/Topology (courses numbered 140 to 149)
• Probability/Statistics (courses numbered 150 to 159)
• Algebra (courses numbered 170 to 179)

Students in the pure mathematics concentration may also choose one applied mathematics course as an elective. Other choices are possible with approval of the department chair or a mathematics advisor.

Applied Mathematics electives

These electives are loosely divided into two groups according to whether they emphasize the discrete or continuous point of view. Applied mathematics students should represent both groups in their choice of electives. A pure mathematics course may also be included among the electives.

Discrete courses include:

• MATH 149 CM - Discrete Geometry  
• MATH 186 CM - Stochastic Methods in Operations Research  
• MATH 187 CM - Deterministic Methods in Operations Research  
• MATH 188 CM - Mathematics of Game Theory  
• Most upper level computer science courses

Continuous courses include:

• MATH 109 CM - Introduction to Mathematics of Finance  
• MATH 111 CM - Differential Equations  
• MATH 164 HM - Scientific Computing (or other course in numerical methods)
• MATH 180 CM - Partial Differential Equations  

Courses which may be used as discrete or continuous are:

• MATH 152 CM - Statistical Inference  
• MATH 156 CM - Stochastic Processes and Modeling  
• MATH 157 CM - Stochastic Calculus for Finance  
• MATH 160 CM - Monte Carlo Methods  

General Mathematics electives

Courses with an upper level prerequisite are:

• MATH 132 CM - Math Analysis II  
• MATH 149B CM - Topics in Mathematics  
• MATH 152 CM - Statistical Inference  
• MATH 156 CM - Stochastic Processes and Modeling  
• MATH 157 CM - Stochastic Calculus for Finance  
• MATH 172 CM - Abstract Algebra II: Galois Theory  
• CSCI 062 CM - Data Structures and Advanced Programming  

Dual Major

Dual majors may waive two electives in the requirements for the major listed above.

Honors in Mathematics

To be considered for honors students must meet the College requirements for honors in the major and write a senior thesis in mathematics.

Students with a dual major including mathematics who wish to be considered for honors in mathematics are eligible if they:

• Complete all requirements for a full major in mathematics and are granted honors, or
• Qualify and receive honors in both disciplines of their dual major. See Academic Honors at Graduation  for details.

Learning Goals

The learning goals of the program in mathematical sciences are:

1. Proficiency in fundamental subjects in mathematics such as Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, and Probability Theory.
2. Knowledge of a range of mathematical subjects chosen from algebra, analysis geometry, discrete and continuous applied mathematics, operations research, computer science, and statistics.
3. Development of critical thinking in the construction of mathematical proofs and mathematical models.
4. Development of problem solving skills and techniques.
5. Facility in all types of quantitative reasoning.
6. Understanding of connections between various areas of mathematics.
7. Development of the ability to effectively communicate mathematical ideas.
8. Knowledge of the applications and relevance of mathematical ideas to other areas of science and to our civilization.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Students will demonstrate proficiency in calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and probability theory.
2. Students will demonstrate proficiency in one of three areas, pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and general mathematics.
3. Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate mathematical concepts and ideas.
4. Students will demonstrate the ability to apply effectively appropriate quantitative analysis and methods.