Study of the mathematical sciences develops logical thinking and quantitative ability; mathematical skills in rigorous deductive analysis and in the use of data are germane to many disciplines. The curriculum of the department is divided into two basic parts: mathematics and statistics. Each provides a combination of fundamental theory and widely applicable material of interest to all students of liberal arts. The curriculum further prepares majors who plan careers in pure or applied mathematics, probability or statistics, or in the natural or social sciences, in teaching, or in other professions.