Majors in mathematics can prepare themselves for graduate study in mathematics or related areas, for the teaching of mathematics at the secondary school level, for professional school in law or health science, or for the application of mathematics and statistics in science, business, industry and government.

Students majoring in mathematics are encouraged to use elective courses to broaden their background in mathematics or in a related area of special interest. Coursework in biology, chemistry, economics, engineering, finance, geology, physics, psychology and computer and information sciences combines well with a major in mathematics.

Students graduating with a major in mathematics will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental notions of mathematics, including rigorous proof. They will be able to model and solve real-world problems arising in business and industry. They will be able to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, mathematical concepts to their peers and to an audience of non-majors. They will be able to learn and apply mathematics on their own through independent study, research and participation in non-class-related lectures.

In all of the department?s major tracks, a student must successfully complete at least 16 credits in mathematics courses numbered 300 and above at the University of St. Thomas.

A minor in mathematics is available to support majors in many other departments. A strong mathematical background is of great benefit to students majoring in engineering, actuarial science and the physical sciences.

In addition to the mathematics tracks described below, the department offers a major in actuarial science (see Actuarial Science) and has programs to prepare students for teacher licensure (see Education). An interdisciplinary major in statistics is offered jointly with the Department of Computer and Information Sciences (see Statistics).

Students should see the chair of the Department of Mathematics for advice in selecting courses for a particular purpose. The department offers a number of courses for non-majors to fulfill the mathematics portion of the core curriculum.