Information for Freshmen

Diagnostic and Advanced Placement Tests

Course Recommendations

Mathematics combines abstract logical thought with concrete investigations into symmetry and order. It looks for patterns, makes analogies and formalizes the conclusions succinctly, in a way that they are useful in a variety of places where there is structure. Those who major in math go well beyond the basics to study calculus, differential equations and statistics, the basic structures in algebra, analysis and geometry, as well as rudiments of combinatorics and set theory.  Juniors and seniors are given the opportunity to focus their studies in an area of interest by taking advanced topics courses. Students learn to write coherent and complete proofs of various assertions, to work out non-trivial examples and, when possible, use computational tools. Our undergraduate program has a special emphasis on equipping the students with needed tools for a successful research career. Seniors are encouraged, but not required, to do a bachelor's thesis in an advanced topic. 

By graduation time, our students are expected to have the following:

1. A substantial knowledge of the basic areas of mathematics, namely algebra, analysis, geometry/ topology, and discrete math.
2. Basics of probability and statistics, as well as basic physics.
3. The equivalent of several quarters of advanced math and research work.
4. Some exposure to computations.
5. A broad range of problem solving experience.

The knowledge and skills acquired here are consistent with admissions to graduate programs in peer institutions.