Student working through modeling and simulation formula

Mathematics

The Mathematics Program seeks to give students an understanding and appreciation of the beauty and utility of mathematics. Quantitative and analytic skills are increasingly important in biology, economics, and the social sciences, as well as in engineering and the physical sciences.

Overview

The study of mathematics at Centre provides the opportunity for the development of clear, logical, and creative thinking that may be applied to a wide variety of problems and interests. In addition to these important problem-solving skills, the mathematics major will learn to present concise, logical arguments in writing and orally. Emphasis is placed on mathematical thinking and precise communication of these thoughts.

Students completing the mathematics major at Centre have a broad range of interests. Many also complete a major in another field. For example, recent mathematics majors have second majors in chemistry, computer science, economics, English, history, physics, and Spanish.

Your Major Took You Where?

Mathematics majors have gone on to a variety of graduate programs and careers.

Employers

  • Augentius
  • Bonnier Corporation
  • Fidelity Investments
  • Mercer, Inc.
  • Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Postgraduate Study

  • University of Louisville (M.A.T.)
  • Belmont University (M.A., teaching)
  • Purdue University (Ph.D., statistics)
  • Washington University in St. Louis (M.S., electrical & systems engineering)
  • Florida State University (Ph.D., applied & computational mathematics)

Curriculum

Mathematics majors begin by establishing a firm foundation in calculus and linear algebra during the student’s first two years. Students may then choose from a broad range of courses that include the more theoretical studies of algebra, analysis, and complex analysis, as well as the more applicable areas of differential equations, probability, and statistics.

Major Requirements

Minor Requirements

Experiential Learning

Students engage in hands-on learning experiences and reflection to develop skills and increase knowledge retention.

Students experience the application of mathematics through many hands-on learning opportunities including, Centre Sports Analytics, Modeling Cancer Growth with Differential Equations, and the Mathematics of Board Games. Many also participate in areas of math research each summer.

Internships

We're committed to helping students find quality internship experiences in the career area of their choice.

Mathematics students participate in a variety of internships in allied professional areas including financial advising, analysts, accounting, banking, and economists.

Careers

Our extraordinary liberal arts and sciences education prepares students for meaningful lives and careers.

Graduates move into a variety of interesting jobs including actuary, investment banker, engineer, physician, economist, analyst, programmer, and teacher. Many combine their mathematics interests with other major fields such as chemistry, computer science, economics, English, music, and physics.

Mathematics Faculty

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Jeffrey Heath

  • David and Marlene Grissom Professor of Mathematics and Data Science
  • Chair of the Data Science Program
  • NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative
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Joel Kilty

  • Margaret V. Haggin Professor of Mathematics
  • Chair of Mathematics Program
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Alex M. McAllister

  • Associate Dean of the College
  • H.W. Stodghill Jr. Adele H. Stodghill Professor of Mathematics
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Sarah Murray

  • Professor of Education
  • Chair of the Education Program (Fall 2024)
  • Pre-Teaching Advisor
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Lesley W. Wiglesworth

  • H.W. Stodghill, Jr. and Adele H. Stodghill Professor of Mathematics
  • Chair of Mathematics Program

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