Mathematics Majors
Applied Mathematics, B.A., B.S.
Mathematics Major Requirements
Students planning to major in mathematics may earn either a B.A. or B.S. degree. A mathematics major should be prepared to enroll in Mathematics 140, Calculus I, or a higher course during the first semester at Millikin. Mathematics 100, 106, 112, 114, 117, 120, and 125 do not count toward a major or minor.
All majors are required to successfully complete the common foundation courses comprised of four mathematics courses:
- MA140 Calculus I
- MA240 Calculus II
- MA208 Discrete Mathematics
- MA303 Linear Algebra
The department may waive one or more of the foundation course requirements for students with advanced high school mathematics preparation.
Mathematics Tracks
Applied Mathematics
Secondary Education
Actuarial Science
Mathematics Minors
Applied Mathematics
Applied Mathematics Minor Requirements:
- MA 140 Calculus I
- MA 240 Calculus II
- MA 208 Discrete Mathematics
- MA 303 Linear Algebra
- At least two other mathematics courses numbered 300 or higher.
Track I: Applied Mathematics Major
Careers in Applied Mathematics
Students interested in immediate employment or graduate study in applied mathematics should elect this option. In addition to the foundation requirements, students must take;
- MA340 Calculus III
- MA305 Differential Equations
- MA313 Numerical Analysis
- MA403 Abstract Algebra
- MA499 Senior Seminar
- Computer Science I (CS130) is highly recommended for applied mathematics majors
- Two (2) courses selected from:
- MA301 College Geometry
- MA304 Probability and Mathematical Statistics
- MA308 Theory of Computation
- MA314 Advanced Mathematics Statistics
- MA320 History of Mathematics
- MA472 Internship
Minor in Applied Mathematics
A minor in applied mathematics is an excellent complement to majors in the natural sciences, social sciences, computer science, and business. To receive a minor in applied mathematics a student must successfully complete the following course of study.
- MA140 Calculus I
- MA208 Discrete Mathematics
- MA240 Calculus II
- MA303 Linear Algebra
- At least two (2) other mathematics courses numbered 300 or higher.
Track II: Mathematics Major with Secondary Education Certification
Students interested in teacher certification should elect this option. In addition to the foundation requirements, students must take;
- MA220 Statistical Methods
- MA301 College Geometry
- MA304 Probability and Mathematical Statistics
- MA320 History of Mathematics
- MA403 Abstract Algebra
- MA425 Methods of Teaching Mathematics in Grades 6 through 12
- Two (2) courses selected from:
- MA340 Calculus III
- MA305 Differential Equations
- MA313 Numerical Analysis
- MA314 Advanced Mathematics Statistics
- MA471 Internship in Methods of Teaching Mathematics
- MA491 Independent Study
Teacher certification also requires special coursework in education and other areas. See the School of Education section for details. Students should consider preparation in a second teaching field to increase the breadth of their knowledge and the probability of finding a teaching position upon graduation. Past experience indicates that biological, physical or general sciences, computer science or physical education (coaching) combinations with mathematics are sought by schools.
Middle School Mathematics Endorsement for Elementary Education Majors
Elementary education majors may earn a middle school endorsement in mathematics by following this option. In addition to courses required by the School of Education for elementary certification, ED440 and ED450 are required for a middle school endorsement. See the School of Education section for details.
• MA112 Mathematics Content for Elementary School Teachers
• MA120 Elementary Probability and Statistics
• MA140 Calculus I
• MA208 Discrete Mathematics
• MA220 Statistical Methods
• MA301 College Geometry
• MA320 History of Mathematics
• MA425 Methods of Teaching Mathematics in Grades 6 through 12
Track III: Actuarial Science
Becoming an actuary
Students interested in becoming an actuary should elect this option. In addition to the foundation requirements, students must take;
- MA220 Statistical Methods*
- MA340 Calculus III
- MA304 Probability and Mathematical Statistics
- MA313 Numerical Analysis
- MA314 Advanced Mathematical Statistics
- MA499 Senior Seminar
The following courses have been approved by the Society of Actuaries for VEE at Millikin University:
VEE Economics - EC100 and EC110VEE Statistical Methods (regression component) – MA220
VEE Corporate Finance – FI340
Students who have completed Track III and all highly recommended courses will be prepared to take the first two Actuarial Examinations (1/P and 2/FM) of the Casualty Actuarial Society and the Society of Actuaries.Students who complete any two of the courses FI354, FI365, FI361, EC310, EC312 or EC322 in addition to all of the highly recommended courses will earn a minor in Finance from the Tabor School of Business.
For more information about majoring in mathematics at Millikin University, please call Dr. Miller at 217.424.6215.