Mathematical & Scientific Computation, Bachelor of Science College of Letters & Science

Mathematics is the study of abstract structures, space, change, and the interrelations of these concepts. It also is the language of the exact sciences.

The Program

After completing basic introductory courses such as calculus and linear algebra, students plan an upper division program in consultation with a faculty advisor. Upper division courses include real analysis, probability, modern algebra, as well as a variety of other courses that allow students to further mathematical knowledge and skills that feature their research or career interests. This individualized program can lead to graduate study in pure or applied mathematics, elementary or secondary level teaching, or to other professional goals. It can also reflect a special interest such as computational and applied mathematics, computer science, or statistics, or may be combined with a major in some other field.

Career Alternatives

A degree in mathematics provides entry to many careers in industry in addition to teaching. For instance, operations research, data analysis, systems analysis, computing, actuarial work, insurance, and financial services are only a few such careers. Mathematics is also a sound basis for graduate work in a variety of fields, such as law, engineering, and economics.

Major Advisors

For a current list of faculty and staff advisors, see Math Department Advising or contact Student Services.

Mathematics Placement Requirement

Students who wish to enroll in MAT 012, MAT 017A, MAT 019AMAT 021A, MAT 021AH, and MAT 021M must satisfy the mathematics placement requirement by taking an online exam. Students who do not satisfy the requirement will be administratively dropped from these courses. For more information, including preparation tips and how to access the online exam, please see Math Placement Requirement (MPR), well in advance of enrolling.

Department Honors

Students who meet the minimum GPA requirement for honors at graduation for the College of Letters & Science and who complete a senior project as part of MAT 194 or MAT 199 units in consultation with their faculty advisor may also be recommended by the department for graduation with High Honors or Highest Honors. Recommendations will be based on evaluations of students' academic achievements in their major and the quality of their senior project. For complete details, see Honors & Awards.

Graduate Study

The Department offers programs of study and research leading to M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Mathematics. Information regarding graduate study may be obtained by consulting our website or contacting Student Services.

The major requirements below are in addition to meeting University Degree Requirements & College Degree Requirements; unless otherwise noted. The minimum number of units required for the Mathematical & Scientific Computation Bachelor of Science is 82.

Preparatory Subject Matter
Mathematics
MAT 017ACalculus for Biology & Medicine4
or MAT 021A Calculus
MAT 017BCalculus for Biology & Medicine4
or MAT 021B Calculus
MAT 017CCalculus for Biology & Medicine4
or MAT 021C Calculus
MAT 021DVector Analysis4
MAT/BIS 027BDifferential Equations with Applications to Biology3-4
or MAT 022B Differential Equations
Linear Algebra & Proof-Writing
Choose one option:4-8
(a)
Introduction to Abstract Mathematics
Linear Algebra with Applications to Biology
Linear Algebra
or
(b)
Modern Linear Algebra
Choose one:0-1
Linear Algebra Computer Laboratory
Equivalent MATLAB knowledge. 1
Programming
ECS 032AIntroduction to Programming4
or ECS 032AV Introduction to Programming
ENG 006Engineering Problem Solving4
Preparatory Subject Matter Subtotal31-37
Depth Subject Matter
A. Core Courses
MAT 127AReal Analysis4
MAT 127BReal Analysis4
MAT 127CReal Analysis4
MAT 128ANumerical Analysis4
MAT 128BNumerical Analysis in Solution of Equations4
MAT 128CNumerical Analysis in Differential Equations4
MAT 135AProbability4
MAT 150AModern Algebra4
B. Enrichment Courses
Choose two:8
MAT 111-MAT 185B worth at least 4 units each. 2
C. Emphasis
Choose one:8
Computational & Mathematical Biology Emphasis
Mathematical Biology
And
One approved upper division course in Biology; please consult with a math advisor before selecting a course.
OR
Computational & Mathematics Emphasis
Optimization
And
One approved upper division course involving extensive computation or theory of computation; please consult with a math advisor before selecting a course.
D. Capstone Course
Choose one:3-4
Number Theory
Partial Differential Equations: Eigenfunction Expansions
Ordinary Differential Equations
Stochastic Processes
Algebraic Combinatorics
Modern Algebra
Modern Algebra
Special Topics
Complex Analysis
Advanced Problem Solving
Internship in Applied Mathematics (Must take 3 units.)
Undergraduate Thesis
Depth Subject Matter Subtotal51-52
Total Units82-89
1

Note: Basic knowledge of MATLAB is required for both MAT 022A & MAT 067. Students can learn it on their own, enroll in ENG 006, or in the 1 unit course MAT 022AL (can be taken concurrently).

2

Excluding MAT 180. Note that core math major classes cannot be used to satisfy this requirement.