Guide to the Math Major
The Carleton Mathematics department offers two tracks within the major, Mathematics or Mathematics/Statistics which are designed to reflect the depth and diversity of modern mathematics or statistics. We seek to provide you with an accurate picture of the nature of mathematics itself, its applications, and its connections to other disciplines. Specifically, in our courses, seminars, colloquia, and other activities, you will:
- learn a broad range of mathematical topics;
- increase your ability to read and write mathematical proofs;
- become a competent mathematical problem solver;
- be exposed to the mathematical literature available in our excellent library;
- learn how mathematics or statistics is applied to real problems;
- become aware of the connections between the various branches of mathematics, and between mathematics and other disciplines.
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR
We offer two tracks, Mathematics or Mathematics/Statistics. Both options include a requirement that majors accumulate a total of eight talk-credits during the junior and senior years by attending the comps talks of their colleagues.
Mathematics major
The basic calculus/linear algebra sequence (Math 121, 211, and 232) and the course on mathematical structures (Math 236) are required of all majors. Also, each major must take at least 6 courses (36 credits) numbered above 236 chosen from at least three of the following areas. Consult the catalog for course descriptions.
- Algebra:
Math 312 - Elementary Theory of Numbers
Math 332 - Advanced Linear Algebra
Math 342 - Abstract Algebra I
Math 352 - Abstract Algebra II - Analysis:
Math 251 - Chaotic Dynamics
Math 321 - Real Analysis I
Math 331 - Real Analysis II
Math 351 - Functions of a Complex Variable - Applied Mathematics:
Math 241 - Ordinary Differential Equations
Math 245 - Applied Regression Analysis
Math 265 - Probability
Math 275 - Introduction to Statistical Inference
Math 315 - Topics in Probability and Statistics
Math 341 - Fourier Series and Boundary Value Problems - Discrete Structures:
CS 252 - Algorithms
CS 254 - Automata & Computability
Math 333 - Combinatorial Theory - Geometry/Topology:
Math 244 - Geometries
Math 344 - Differential Geometry
Math 354 - Topology
Students must also complete the Senior Integrative Exercise ("Comps")
Mathematics/Statistics
A Carleton student will be able to obtain a major in mathematics following a statistics track by taking the following courses above Calculus:
- Math 232 - Linear Algebra
- Math 236 - Structures
- Math 245 - Applied Regression Analysis
- Math 265 - Probability
- Math 275 - Statistical Inference
- Math 315 - Topics in Probability and Statistics
- two math electives above Math 236 At least one of these courses must be taken outside of the Applied Mathematics area.
CS 111 (Introduction to Computer Science) is also recommended.
It is strongly recommended that students on this track engage in some data analysis learning experience outside the classroom such as an internship involving data analysis, a research experience with a statistician, either on or off campus, or a comps project that is explicitly statistical in nature. Students interested in graduate school in statistics are advised to take Math 321 (Real Analysis I).
Students must also complete the Senior Integrative Exercise ("Comps").
Our Majors
Meet the current math Majors! [On-campus only]
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