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.

Last Updated: 11/5/09