2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Nov 23, 2024  
HELP
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Mathematics (BS)

Facebook this Page (opens a new window)
Tweet this Page (opens a new window)

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Academic Program list

Program Description 

Vermont State University’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program provides students with an opportunity to study one of western civilization’s oldest and richest disciplines. In addition to the intrinsic value of the study of mathematics as a liberal art, the mathematics degree provides the foundation for a variety of careers in business, scientific and related fields. Students desiring preparation for a high school teaching career may also earn secondary mathematics teaching licensure.  

Program Outcomes 

There are two groups of Mathematics Program Outcomes: content knowledge outcomes and capstone outcomes. The content knowledge outcomes focus on students developing problem solving and communication skills across the core mathematics curriculum. The capstone outcomes synthesize the content knowledge outcomes.   

Content Knowledge Outcomes  

  1. Calculus I:

  • apply the limit definition of the derivative and use it to calculate the instantaneous rate of change of a function.

  • calculate the derivative of any algebraic or transcendental function.

  • use the derivative to solve real-world problems.

  • apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.  

  1. Calculus II:

  • apply integration techniques to a variety of algebraic and transcendental functions. 

  • use the definite integral (and limits of sums) to solve real-world problems. 

  • determine whether an infinite series converges and, when possible, find its sum.  

  1. Calculus III: 

  • apply partial derivatives and multivariate integration to a variety of real-world problems.

  • Apply the method of Lagrange Multipliers to optimization problems.  

  1. Differential Equations:

  • model a variety of real-world situations with an appropriate differential equation. 

  • use a variety of algebraic and numerical methods to solve differential equations.  

  1. Linear Algebra: 

  • use matrices to solve real-world problems.

  • use the RREF form of a matrix in a variety of ways (including solving systems of linear equations; testing for linear independence, spanning, and to determine whether a set of vectors forms a basis; finding eigenvectors.) 

  • prove and utilize basic properties of matrices, vectors and linear transformations.  

  1. Statistics: 

  • apply the normal or binomial distribution to solve certain probability problems. 

  • calculate probabilities and apply them to determine the unusualness of events. 

  • create and use descriptive statistics to summarize, analyze and compare data sets.

  •  explain the importance of random/probability sampling.  

  1. Mathematical Reasoning: 

  • apply the working tools of predicate logic. 

  • construct a lucid mathematical proof that demonstrates the logic while using proper grammar and precise mathematical notation. 

  • explore complex and unfamiliar mathematical ideas while effectively communicating these ideas both orally and in writing.  

Capstone Outcomes 

  1. Explain main ideas of mathematics clearly, in writing and orally.  

  1. Develop the ability to read mathematics independently.  

  1. Deepen their own mathematical knowledge by applying previous mathematical learning to new mathematical thinking, concepts and ideas.  

  1. Choose and employ current technologies to explore a phenomenon, model a problem, analyze data, or draw conclusions.  

Program Core

Program Electives

General Mathematics Concentration (BS.MAT)

Complete the program core, the computing elective, and 12 credits from the following courses:

Secondary Education Concentration (BS.MAT.SED)

Complete the program core, the computing elective, and the courses listed below.

Credits Required for Program: 42-52

Important

To obtain a degree, students must fulfill the major-specific requirements as well as satisfy all other Degree Requirements  including the General Education Requirements .

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Academic Program list


Facebook this Page (opens a new window)
Tweet this Page (opens a new window)
Catalog Navigation
  Catalog Home
  University-Wide Policies
  Mission and Vision
  History
  Academic Calendar

  Academic Policies
  Admissions
  Financial Aid
  Tuition and Fees
  International and Multilingual Students

  Academic Programs by Department
  Academic Program list
  Course Descriptions
  Course and Program Modality
  General Education Program

  Administration
  Archived Catalogs
  Addendum
  My Portfolio