Mathematics Department
MacLean Hall 375, (218) 477-2274
Chair: Adam Goyt
Faculty: Sayel Ali, Ashok Aryal, Ellen Fagerstrom, Tamara Fitting, Damiano Fulghesu, Timothy Harms, Hongyan Hou, Justin James, Megan Jensen, Lian Ng, Carol Okigbo, Tamara Schmiess, Sara Solhjem

The Mathematics Department offers four majors for students to choose from. Each of the four majors includes a core of mathematics courses that starts with the calculus sequence, along with additional upper-level mathematics courses that are specific to the major chosen. In addition, students in each major must complete a two-semester sequence of upper-level math courses where the second course builds directly upon the material learned in the first course and requires the student to synthesize the material.

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Mathematics is a general Mathematics degree that will prepare students to go to graduate school in Mathematics or to pursue other opportunities appropriate to a Mathematics major. The program includes 33 credits of Math core requirements, starting with the Calculus sequence. In addition, students will take 15 credits of upper level Math electives that may be chosen to meet the students’ individual interests. Students must complete a two-semester sequence of upper level Math courses where the second course builds directly upon the material learned in the first course and requires the student to synthesize the material. The courses in that sequence are included in the core and elective courses that are required for the program. Students pursuing this degree have enough free electives to pursue a minor or to explore other academic interests.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Mathematics Education will prepare students for a career as a secondary education teacher in Mathematics. The program includes 46 credits in Mathematics, starting with the Calculus sequence. These courses include ones that are core to any Mathematics major as well as ones that are specific to Mathematics Education. Additionally, 36 credits of courses that are core to any Secondary Education major are required. Every Mathematics major at Minnesota State University Moorhead requires a sequence of upper level courses. In the case of the Mathematics Education major, that sequence is Math 416 and the capstone experience of student teaching.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Mathematics with the Computational emphasis includes courses from several areas of mathematics, including mathematical analysis, statistics, and computer modeling and simulation. Many of the courses will involve heavy use of computers. Computational mathematics is focused on the skills needed to solve real-world problems. The program includes 41 credits of required Math courses, starting with the Calculus sequence, as well as two other Math courses chosen from specific lists. At least one of those two additional Math courses must be chosen to complete a two-semester upper level sequence. Typical choices for that upper level sequence for Computational majors would be Math 335/435, Math 311/411 or Math 366/466, although other options are available. Students should see their advisor for additional discussion. In addition, 15 credits of CSIS courses are required for this program. Students pursuing this degree have enough free electives to pursue a minor or to explore other academic interests.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Mathematics: Actuarial Science will prepare students for a career as an Actuary. The field requires knowledge of probability, statistics, finance, and economics. Actuaries often work in the financial services sector, including working for insurance companies, commercial banks, and investment banks. The program includes 44 credits of Mathematics courses, starting with the Calculus sequence. These courses include the two-semester upper level sequences of Math 321/421 and Math 335/435. In addition, the program requires 21 credits of related requirements from the fields of Economics, Computer Science, Finance, and Accounting. Students pursuing this degree have enough free electives to pursue a minor or to explore other academic interests.

Students who major in mathematics often declare a minor in a second field such as biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, or business.

The department also offers minors in Mathematics and Statistics that could complement any major, as well as a minor that is specific to those majoring in Elementary Inclusive Education.