Undergraduate programs

The mathematical sciences have long provided the proper language of the physical sciences and engineering, and they are playing an increasingly important role in areas as diverse as data science, computer science, the social sciences, business administration and economics, and the biological and medical sciences.  Many are drawn to the study of mathematics and statistics precisely because of this broad applicability.  Others are attracted by the rigorous training these disciplines provide in abstract reasoning, and the many surprising results and elegant arguments they encounter.  The department offers a wide variety of courses in mathematics and statistics to meet the needs of a student body having very diverse interests.  Anyone who would like to learn more about the department’s faculty, programs, courses, activities and other services is encouraged to explore the department website, or visit the department office.

Degree Maps and Learning Outcomes

Admission requirements

Mathematics B.A./B.S.

Data Science B.S.

Mathematics Minor

Mathematics for Middle School Teachers Minor

Mathematics Licensure

Mathematics for Teaching License Requirements

To receive a teaching license from PSU, after completing a baccalaureate degree a student must complete the Graduate Teacher Education Program (GTEP) through the College of Education.

Below is a list of the minimal mathematics/statistics coursework required for individuals needing a Departmental Recommendation to enter the Graduate Teacher Education Program (GTEP) in Advanced Mathematics and in Foundational Mathematics. GTEP is a program in the College of Education, but these mathematics/statistics prerequisites are taken in the Fariborz Maseeh Department of Mathematics and Statistics. A bachelor's degree is also required by GTEP, although not necessarily in mathematics. One may apply for the GTEP program before completing all coursework, but coursework must be completed before entrance to GTEP.

Secondary Education Program Requirements for the Advanced Mathematics

The program must include the following courses or approved substitutions required by the Fariborz Maseeh Department of Mathematics and Statistics (12 courses).

Courses

Mth 251Calculus I

4

Mth 252Calculus II

4

Mth 253Calculus III

4

Mth 254Calculus IV

4

Mth 261Introduction to Linear Algebra

4

 

Mth 271Mathematical Computing

4

or

CS 161Introduction to Programming and Problem-Solving

4

 

Mth 338Modern College Geometry

4

Mth 344Introduction to Group Theory and Applications

4

Mth 346Number Theory

4

Mth 356Discrete Mathematics

4

  

Mth 481Topics in Probability for Mathematics Teachers

3

or

Mth 482Topics in Statistics for Mathematics Teachers

3

or

Stat 451Applied Statistics for Engineers and Scientists I

4

or

Stat 461Introduction to Mathematical Statistics I

3

or

Stat 462Introduction to Mathematical Statistics II

3

Electives

At least one approved upper division mathematics elective. Approved courses include but are not limited to:
Mth 311Introduction to Mathematical Analysis I

4

Mth 345Introduction to Ring and Field Theory

4

 

Mth 481Topics in Probability for Mathematics Teachers

3

or

Mth 482Topics in Statistics for Mathematics Teachers

3

or

Stat 452Applied Statistics for Engineers and Scientists II

3

  

Mth 483Topics in Geometry for Mathematics Teachers

3

Mth 484Topics in Algebra for Mathematics Teachers

3

Mth 486Topics in The History of Mathematics

3

Mth 487Topics in Discrete Mathematics for Mathematics Teachers

3

Mth 488Topics in Computing for Mathematics Teachers

3

Program Requirements for the Foundational Mathematics (Teaching Grades 5-9)

The program must include the following courses or approved substitutions required by the Fariborz Maseeh Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Courses

Mth 211Foundations Of Elementary Mathematics I

4

Mth 212Foundations Of Elementary Mathematics II

4

Mth 213Foundations Of Elementary Mathematics III

4

Mth 491Experimental Probability and Statistics for Middle School Teachers

4

Mth 493Geometry for Middle School Teachers

4

Mth 494Arithmetic and Algebraic Structures for Middle School Teachers

4

Mth 495Historical Topics in Mathematics for Middle School Teachers

4

Mth 496Concepts of Calculus for Middle School Teachers

4

Mth 497Mathematics in the Middle School Classroom

4