Mathematics Minor
Overview
A minor is a grouping of 6 or more courses, totaling 18 to 21 credits, of which 12 credits are usually in 300 to 400 level courses. A minor may be similar to, and named for, an existing major such as Chemistry. Or, it may be a special, interdisciplinary grouping such as Judaic Studies. The department or college offering the minor determines which courses are required and any course options. Some colleges may actually require a formal minor as part of the degree program.
A minor provides an excellent opportunity to blend another subject area into your degree your degree program on a smaller scale without the additional requirements of a double major, dual degree or combined degree. A minor may be related to and complement your major, or, it may be in a completely different academic/professional area. Some colleges may not approve a minor that is too close to your major. Because a completed minor appears on your transcript after graduation, it shows in an official way, another area of preparation and highlights another dimension of educational background to support an application for graduate study or employment.
Pursuing a minor should be discussed with your academic advisor. Then complete a petition form, available in your dean's office, requesting to formally pursue the minor. The petition must be signed by your advisor, the department or college offering the minor, and your home college dean's office, which will complete the paperwork to enter the minor on your student record.
Information about the few minors that have enrollment limits or eligibility requirements can be obtained at the sponsoring department/college. The sponsoring unit can explain specific course requirements and options for the minor.
When pursuing a minor, try to have the paperwork completed before registration because the minor must be officially listed on your record to assure registering for certain restricted courses.
Minor in Mathematics
The minor in mathematics requires the completion of 21 credits with a grade point average of 2.0 or better. Students complete a 15 credit core that includes:
- The calculus sequence: MAT 295, 296, 397 and:
- either MAT 331 (recommended) or MAT 485
In addition, students select 6 credits in one of the following subject areas:
- Algebra: MAT 531 and one course chosen from MAT 534, 541 or MAT/CIS 545
- Analysis: Any two courses chosen from MAT 511, 512, 513, 562
- Applied Mathematics: Any two courses chosen from MAT 517, 518, 532
- Differential Equations: MAT 514, 517
- Geometry: MAT 531, 551 or MAT 531, 554
- Probability and Statistics: MAT 521, 525 or MAT 521, 526
Note: Students who take MAT 485 instead of MAT 331 may not use the differential equations sequence to satisfy minor requirements.