Apr 20, 2024  
2020-2021 Rivier Academic Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Rivier Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics (Day)


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Mathematics is essential in today’s quantitative and data-driven society. This program develops in its students the computational and reasoning skills needed to be a leader, researcher, and decision-maker in business, government, science, and technology. At the same time, the program explores the beauty of mathematics which has drawn creative individuals to the field by its mysteries, patterns, and relationships. With small class sizes throughout the program, Rivier University students are individually challenged and supported as they develop their ability to solve a breadth of open-ended problems and discover the many career opportunities open to them.

A degree in mathematics demonstrates to future employers that the graduate is willing and prepared to face intellectual challenges and prepares students for careers in business, industry, insurance, research and development, and national security. It also gives an excellent foundation for post-graduate study in mathematics, computer science, atmospheric science, business, and law. Mathematics majors interested in continuing their studies at Rivier University will find a smooth transition into the one-year Master of Science in Computer Science or the one-year Master of Business Administration.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students earning a B.A. in Mathematics should be able to:

  • Apply skills in using mathematical methods and techniques;
  • Use mathematical concepts, methods, functions, and models to solve real world problems and write mathematical proofs;
  • Communicate mathematical ideas in a clear and competent manner, orally and in writing;
  • Apply mathematical tools and principles in one’s chosen career.

Assessment

Assessment methods include homework assignments, tests, class participation, oral and written presentations, individual and group projects, and dialogues with students. Students who complete the internship program are evaluated in a professional setting.

Major Requirements (49 credits)


Related Science Course (8 credits)


Two Mathematics/Computer Science Electives (6 credits)


Choose two courses at the 200-level or above in Mathematics or Computer Science such as those listed below. JYS Courses cannot be used to satisfy this requirement.

General Education Requirements (42-45 credits)


Associated with General Core


Who is My Neighbor?  Students explore this question in their second and third years.(6 credits)

  • HUM200 Literature, Art, and the Human Credits: 3
    Students take one -200 level interdisciplinary course that addresses a basic human question from the perspectives of the literary, visual, and musical arts.
  • HIS203 Interactions: The West in the World I Credits: 3 or
  • HIS204 Interactions: The West in the World II Credits: 3

How Shall We Live? Students explore this question in their junior and senior years. (6 credits)

  • Religion: Faith, Religion, and Social Justice Credits: 3
    Students take one Religion course developed with this theme at its center.
  • Philosophy: Ethics, Values, and Moral Choices Credits: 3
    Students take one Philosophy course developed with this theme at its center.

What, then, Shall We Do?  Students explore this question in their junior or senior year. (3 credits)

  • Capstone: Justice and Global Responsibility Credits: 3
    Students take one of a number of offerings under Justice and Global Responsibility. This seminar serves as the culmination of the Common Core. Informed by problem-solving pedagogy, this seminar enhances the student’s connection with the Catholic vision of the University by focusing on justice and global responsibility.

Area Distribution Courses: The Core Complement
Humanities and Social Sciences (6 credits)

  • One course from: English, History, Modern Language, Philosophy, Religious Studies Credits: 3
  • One course from: Economics, Geography, Political Science, Psychology, or Sociology Credits: 3

Mathematics and Natural Sciences (6 credits)

  • One course in Mathematics:  MA112 College Algebra or above Credits: 3
  • One course from: Computer Science, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, or Physical Science Credits: 3-4

Culture through Language (6 credits)
Students must demonstrate university-level introductory competency in a language other than English.

General Electives (minimum 30 credits)


Degree Requirements (minimum 121 credits)


Other Program Requirements

The two MA/CS elective courses must be at the 200+ level and cannot include a Junior Year Studies course.

To complete the mathematics program successfully the student must obtain a C (2.0) average in their program of study. At most one mathematics course in which a student has received a D or D+ may count toward the degree. Students may repeat courses in which additional D and D+ grades are received, subject to department approval.

SAMPLE DEGREE PLAN


Mathematics, Bachelor of Arts

Year 1 - Fall

Year 1 - Spring

ENG115

FYS: Expositions & Arguments

3 cr

REL115

FYS: God & Created Order

3 cr

MA130

Functions

3 cr

MA165

Calculus I with lab

4 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

___ ___

Modern Language

3 cr

___ ___

Modern Language

3 cr

PHY111/111L

Physics I and lab

4 cr

PHY112/112L

Physics II and lab

4 cr

LNS108

WC: Student Success I

1 cr

LNS109

WC: Student Success II

1 cr

 

 

17

 

 

18

Year 2 - Fall

Year 2 - Spring

MA166

Calculus II with lab

4 cr

MA220

Calculus III

3 cr

MA210

Linear Algebra

3 cr

BIO112

Stewards of the Living World

3 cr

HIS203/204

West in the World I or II

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

HUM200

Literature, Art & Human

3 cr

CS301

Computer Science Fundementals

3 cr

SL100

SL: Serving the World

1 cr

      MA/CS___

Math/CS 200+ elective    

3 cr

 

 

16

 

 

16

Year 3 - Fall

Year 3 - Spring

MA310

Discrete Mathematics

3 cr

MA317

Math Problem Solving & Model

3 cr

MA/CS ____

Math Elective OR

 

MA320

Geometric Models

3 cr

CS____

Computer Science Elective

3 cr

JYS___

Junior Year Seminar

3 cr

___ ___

Natural Science Elective

3 cr

___ ___

Philosophy Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

REL ___

Religion Elective

3 cr

 

 

 

 

 

15

 

 

15

Year 4 - Fall

Year 4 - Spring

MA330

Mathematical Statistics

3 cr

MA420

Abstract Algebra

3 cr

MA490

Math Research Seminar

3 cr

___ ___

Humanities Elective

3 cr

___ ___

Social Science Elective

3 cr

___ ___

Humanities Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

___ ___

General Elective

3 cr

     

 

 

15

 

 

12

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