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Mathematics
Our mathematics students are problem solvers who go on to great careers using the quantitative and analytical skills they developed at Simmons.
Do you like a challenge?
Our students learn to think about problems in a whole new way. You can combine one of our majors with an interest in economics, management, computer science, or another science. Many of our students use their biostatistics major to build careers in public health doing exciting things like designing clinical trials for new medications and treatments.
Our faculty is always on the forefront of using new teaching methods, including cooperative learning groups, computer laboratory investigations, writing-to-learn and flipped courses, as well as traditional instruction. Our students go on to successful careers and graduate study in fields like statistics, scientific programming, public health, "big data" and teaching.
The major in Mathematics begins with:
MATH220 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 |
Required Courses:
CS112 | Introduction to Computer Science | 4 |
MATH121 | Calculus II | 4 |
OR | ||
MATH123 | Single Variable Calculus | 4 |
MATH210 | Discrete Mathematics | 4 |
MATH211 | Linear Algebra | 4 |
MATH310 | Modern Algebra | 4 |
MATH320 | Real Analysis I | 4 |
STAT118 | Introductory Statistics | 4 |
OR | ||
STAT227 | Intermediate Statistics: Design & Analysis | 4 |
MATH 211: normally taken in the sophomore year
STAT 118: sophomore or junior year
MATH 310, MATH 321: junior or senior year
CS 112: may be taken as early as the first year; students should plan on taking it in the first two years. With the approval of the department, another programming course may be substituted for CS 112.
In addition, Mathematics majors must take either
STAT338 | Probability | 4 |
OR | ||
MATH343 | Mathematical Modeling | 4 |
Three courses from those below, at least two of which are at the 300 level:
MATH213 | Introduction to Social Network Analysis | 3 |
MATH225 | Differential Equations | 4 |
MATH338 | Probability | 4 |
MATH343 | Mathematical Modeling | 4 |
MATH390 | Special Topics Seminar in Mathematics | 4 |
STAT345 | Stochastic Processes | 4 |
STAT345 | Stochastic Processes | 4 |
the other of MATH 338/STAT 338/MATH 343
MATH 390: may be taken more than once
The increasing complexity of society has made the mathematical sciences important for people trying to solve problems not only in the science areas, such as physics, chemistry, and biology, but also in the areas of social science and management. In addition, the pure mathematical areas continue to appeal to many as an intellectual discipline, art form, or game.
The major in mathematics is designed to provide a strong background in various mathematical sciences and their applications. By your choice of electives, you may prepare yourself for graduate work or careers in statistics, scientific programming, public health, data science ("big data") or teaching.
Many opportunities exist for students who are interested in combining mathematics with other disciplines. Joint and double majors exist with the Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Education, Management, and Psychology Departments. Other fields (e.g. a health science or Environmental Science) may also benefit from combined study in mathematics and/or statistics. You'll work with your advisor to choose the best combination of majors and minors to match your interests and career goals.
We also offer minors in mathematics, statistics, biostatistics, and scientific computation for students pursuing other majors.
All students majoring in mathematics must complete four semester hours of independent learning. Your advisor will help you choose and plan courses and internships that will help you hone your skills and build your resume. Some recent examples include:
- Research on the use of Leslie matrices to model the population dynamics of North Atlantic salmon
- Research on modeling thermal noise for the Enhanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory
- Internship at EMC to become a "big data" analyst.
- Research on computer methods to test integers to see if they are prime. (This is important for encrypting data in computers.)
Alumnae/i Feature
The small classes at Simmons and the openness of the faculty led me to get to know my professors well. I was given a lot of advice and had personal recommendation letters when I applied for internships and to graduate schools.
Our Faculty
Margaret Menzin
Professor of Computer Science and Mathematics and Program Director of Mathematics and Statistics
Donna Beers
Professor
Michael Brown
Professor Emeritus
Lauren Trichtinger
Assistant Professor
Robert Goldman
Adjunct Faculty and Emeritus
Spotlight on Mathematics Students and Alums
Congratulations to the 2024 Senior Scholars
The annual Senior Scholar Award is sponsored by the Provost's Office and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. The award recognizes six graduating seniors for their outstanding scholarship and contribution to a field of study.
Lynne Passanisi ’11 Reflects on the Broad Career Field a Math Degree Can Make Possible
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STEM Student Attends Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics
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Alexa Frongillo '17 was working in finance in Boston when she realized she didn’t want to visit the same desk every day. So she packed her bags, signed up with the Remote Year program, and began a life-changing journey of working abroad.
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After completing a competitive fellowship program with Hack.Diversity, Eliana was matched as a Software Engineering Intern with Boston-based start-up, Owl Labs, creators of the “Meeting Owl,” one of TIME's 100 Best Inventions of 2020!
Passionate Leaders Project: Spring 2021 Cohort
The Passionate Leaders Project supports undergraduate students seeking to enrich their academic and professional interests by funding learning opportunities beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom. Learn what the Spring 2021 cohort is up to!
Whitney Andrews ’11 Applies Creativity to Financial Planning Role at L'Oréal
While pursuing a dual art and mathematics major, Whitney Andrews '11 discovered the many connections these fields share. Now a financial planning and analysis manager at L'Oréal, Andrews tells us how Simmons allowed her to explore these disparate interests.
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