Mathematics
The Mathematics major at Cumberland University will provide each student a solid foundation in several core branches of mathematics (calculus, analysis, and algebra); will help students develop quantitative and abstract reasoning skills; will encourage students to read, discuss, write about, and orally present mathematics; and will prepare students to apply these skills in advanced degree programs and/or careers requiring expertise in mathematics.
The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics prepares the student for graduate study or for other employment, such as actuarial sciences, requiring mathematical expertise. Students majoring in Mathematics must take MATH 121 to satisfy the General Education Core (GEC) requirement in mathematics. Students whose mathematical background is insufficient preparation for MATH 121 may take MATH 111 and MATH 112 as general electives. However, these courses cannot be used as part of the major.
The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics has three areas of emphasis. All students majoring in Mathematics must take 120 minimum required semester hours: 44-47 from the GEC, 22-23 from required Mathematics courses (not including MATH 121), nine from upper level mathematics electives, and three hours of computer programming courses. Students desiring to complete an emphasis in Finance and Economics or in Computers must complete additional hours of coursework in the desired emphasis. All students must select sufficient general elective courses to bring the total hours for graduation to a minimum of 120 credit hours. Students majoring in mathematics are encouraged to choose general elective courses so that a minor in a related field is completed.
Candidates interested in Mathematics teacher licensure must complete this program of study and the Secondary Education dual major. Candidates should work with an advisor in Mathematics and an advisor from the School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts early and often to ensure enrollment in the required courses. ED 432 Classroom Management and ED 433 Methods in Education must be taken the semester prior to student teaching.