Mathematics BS

Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science (BS)
Minimum Required Credits: 120.0                           
Co-op Option(s): Two Co-op, One Co-op, No Co-op                                                       
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 27.0101
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 15-2021

About the Program

Mathematics is at the foundation of much of today’s technological society and mathematical skills are highly prized across many areas of the professional world, ranging from the financial and commercial sectors, to the entertainment industry and the health sciences. The Mathematics Bachelor of Science degree at Drexel provides students with the tools, perspective and versatility to bring the power of mathematics into a career of their choosing by focusing on three distinct but interrelated skill sets.

The first of these is abstract reasoning. Students learn to use rigorous logic to boil down intuitive notions such as number, shape, transformation and structure into precise abstract concepts. Interpreting and crafting mathematical arguments is a core skill, preparing interested students for the pursuit of advanced graduate degrees in Mathematics or closely related disciplines. Moreover, the process of reducing mathematical ideas to their essential features frequently reveals connections between subjects that may otherwise be hidden, opening the door for new insights and discoveries.

The second key area is mathematical modeling. Nearly every mathematical concept has found a powerful application in some other aspect of human endeavor, be it the use of number theory in cryptography or the key role that matrix analysis plays in computer animation. One of the most powerful skills in the modern world is the ability to convert a problem from a (not obviously mathematical) discipline into an abstract mathematical framework. Mathematics majors at Drexel learn how that leap has been made in the past and take courses which develop their own intuition and ability in that direction.

Finally, Drexel’s Mathematics major emphasizes computation. Once a question has been converted into a precise mathematical form, it can be analyzed, approximated or otherwise manipulated using today’s ever more potent computational tools. Mathematics majors take programming and scientific computation courses from around the University, learning key algorithms, methods and software skills. Students learn not only how to use modern tools but also why those tools work.

The training a student receives as a Mathematics major at Drexel will make them a modern Jack of All Trades. The combination of abstract reasoning, mathematical modeling and computational tools they acquire will make them a valuable asset to employers, while their grounding in mathematical rigor will set them up for success in graduate school.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, please contact the College of Arts and Sciences

Admission Requirements

Same as Drexel admission requirements.

Degree Requirements

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A complete list of eligible Introductory Core Competency courses can be found here.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• demonstrate problems-solving skills in a broad range of significant mathematical contexts;
• understand what constitutes mathematical thinking, and be able to produce and judge the validity of mathematical arguments;
• produce clear and valid proofs;
• demonstrate substantial computer programming skills;
• interact effectively with collaborators in other disciplines;
•  mathematical information clearly, both orally and in writing, in a way that is appropriate for the audience.