Mathematical Sciences Major
The mathematical sciences embody the quantitative and analytical reasoning skills applicable to the physical and social sciences and all fields of engineering. Known as the language of science, mathematics clarifies scientific concepts and describes scientific phenomena through symbolic language and the rules for its use. The full process of the mathematical sciences entails mathematical formulation of scientific problems and their subsequent solution and interpretation.
Military Applications of Mathematics
Mathematics and the ability to use it are particularly important to Army officers, who are leading Soldiers in a complex and increasingly technical world. A successful career depends upon one’s ability to assimilate knowledge from many fields and to apply it to a wide variety of social and technical problems. Mathematics is the common vehicle of thought and expression that enables the leader to model and solve quantifiable problems whether at the platoon or at the Department of the Army level.
Student Outcomes
The student outcomes of the mathematical sciences major include:
- Demonstrate competence in modeling physical, informational, and social phenomena by:
- Identifying and articulating assumptions, metrics and constraints.
- Applying appropriate solutions techniques.
- Interpreting results within the appropriate context.
- Argue and inquire soundly and rigorously; become independent questioners and learners.
- Achieve mathematical proficiency in breadth and depth.
- Understand and apply theorems and algorithms.
- Understand and apply analytical methods.
- Understand and apply numerical methods.
- Understand and apply graphical methods.
- Understand discrete and continuous structures and processes.
- Communicate mathematics, both orally and in writing.
- Use technology to model, visualize, and solve complex problems.
- Develop attitudes – habits of mind:
- Creative and curious.
- Experimental disposition.
- Critical thinking and reasoning.
- Commitment to life-long learning.
- Understand the role of mathematics in interdisciplinary problem solving.
Program of Study
The Mathematical Sciences Major offers abundant opportunities for study in a broad range of mathematical subjects. Courses such as differential equations, linear algebra, mathematical modeling, analysis, numerical computation, statistics, provide a sound mathematical foundation in the science and engineering fields. In addition, follow-on courses such as graph theory and networks, linear optimization, combinatorics, and advanced individual study provide both depth in understanding the foundations of mathematical theory, as well as opportunity for study and research in a selected subject. Whenever possible, the use of the computer is emphasized to extend the knowledge required for the consideration of realistic and challenging problems of today's world.
Cadets interested in studying mathematics or the application of mathematics can pursue a degree in Mathematical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences Studies, or Mathematical Sciences with Honors. All cadets must complete 26 core courses and complete any one of the seven 3-course engineering sequences.
The Mathematical Sciences Major requires an additional 13 courses (9 required and 4 elective) for a total of 42 academic courses.
Mathematical Sciences Studies Major requires an additional 11 courses in the major (8 required and 3 electives) for a total of 40 academic courses. MA387 and MA491 are not required but can be taken as electives.
Honors Program
The Mathematical Sciences offers an honors program. In order to receive a Mathematical Sciences Major with Honors a cadet is must:
Required Courses
| Course No. |
Course Title |
| Mathematical Core (7 of 7) |
| MA363 |
Vector Calculus and Ordinary Differential Equations |
| MA371 |
Linear Algebra |
| MA383 |
Foundations of Mathematics |
| MA386 |
Introduction to Numerical Analysis |
| MA387 |
Mathematical Analysis I |
| MA391 |
Mathematical Modeling |
| MA491 |
Research Seminar in Applied Mathematics |
| Statistics Elective (1 of 2) |
| MA376 |
Applied Statistics |
| MA476 |
Mathematical Statistics |
| Integrative Experience (1 of 2) |
| MA490 |
Applied Problems from Math, Science, and Engineering |
| XX490 |
Another Department’s Integrative Experience |
| Information Technology (1 of 2) |
| IT305 |
Military IT Systems |
| IT355 |
Theory of Military IT Systems |
Elective Courses (3 of 28, at most 1 non-math)
| Course No. |
Course Title |
| Math Electives |
| MA372 |
Introduction to Discrete Mathematics |
| MA376 |
Applied Statistics |
| MA381 |
Nonlinear Optimization |
| MA385 |
Chaos and Fractals |
| MA396 |
Numerical Methods for the Solution of Differential Equations |
| MA461 |
Graph Theory and Networks |
| MA462 |
Combinatorics |
| MA464 |
Applied Algebra with Cryptology |
| MA466 |
Abstract Algebra |
| MA476 |
Mathematical Statistics |
| MA481 |
Linear Programming |
| MA484 |
Partial Differential Equations |
| MA485 |
Applied Complex Analysis |
| MA487 |
Mathematical Analysis II |
| MA488 |
Special Topics in Mathematics |
| MA489 |
Advanced Individual Study In Mathematics |
| MA493A |
Operational Calculus and Transforms |
| MA493B |
Real Variable Theory |
| MA493C |
Topics in Numerical Analysis |
| MA493D |
Introduction to Topology |
| MA493E |
Topics in Analysis |
| Non-Math Elective |
| EP333 |
Cultural Studies |
| EV365 |
Geography of Global Cultures |
| LW481 |
International Law |
| DS455 |
Comparative Military Systems |
| PL371 |
Introductory Sociology |
| SS381 |
Political and Cultural Anthropology |
| LX300 |
Foreign Language |