Mathematics
Mathematics Major
The following are the required mathematics courses for the major and the suggested semesters in which to take those courses. A total of four 300-level mathematics courses are required in addition to Math 385: Senior Seminar. The course CmSc 150: Fundamentals of Computing I is also required for the mathematics major.
A typical 4-year plan appears below. Some students enter Simpson with college or AP credit for Calculus I and/or II and are prepared to start Calculus II or III in the first year.
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | |
|
First Year |
Math 151: Calculus I |
Math 152: Calculus II |
|
Second Year |
Math 251: Calculus III Math 265: Introduction to Advanced Mathematics |
Math 255: Linear Algebra |
|
Third Year |
One 300-level mathematics elective |
One 300-level mathematics elective |
|
Fourth Year |
Math 385: Senior Seminar One 300-level mathematics elective |
One 300-level mathematics elective |
Most 300-level courses are offered once every other year. The usual two-year rotation for those classes appears below. Note that Math 385: Senior Seminar is offered as needed for all graduating seniors.
| Fall Semester in Odd-Numbered Years | Spring Semester in Even-Numbered Years |
|
Math 325: Topology Math 335: Probability and Statistics I |
Math 315: Graph Theory Math 336: Probability and Statistics II Math 345: Differential Equations |
| Fall Semester in Even-Numbered Years | Spring Semester in Odd-Numbered Years |
|
Math 310: Mathematical Modeling Math 331: Real Analysis Math 375: Geometry |
Math 345: Differential Equations Math 350: Abstract Algebra Math 360: Complex Variables |
Electives recommended for a variety of career interests:
Students wanting to teach high school should plan to take Math 375: Geometry and either Math 201: Elementary Statistics or Math 335: Probablity and Statistics I. To be certified to teach high school, a student must also complete a minor in Secondary Education.
If you want to study to take the actuarial exams, you will need to take Math 335 and 336: Probability and Statistics I and II. It is also recommended that you work toward an Economics minor or major.
Graduate school bound students will have the best preparation by taking Math 325: Topology, Math 331: Real Analysis, and Math 350: Abstract Algebra.
View the Mathematics course descriptions.