Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts — Program Overview
Do you have a knack for solving problems, finding patterns and figuring out how things work? If so, majoring in mathematics might be for you!
Be more than a number cruncher.
In today’s world, mathematicians are in high demand, which equals a job for you — and not the boring desk job most people imagine! Today’s mathematicians are making and breaking secret codes for the military, designing the world’s most efficient bridges and skyscrapers, and advising non-profit organizations to be more sustainable.
Personalize your degree.
Choose one of two mathematics tracks, and we’ll help make sure your degree is tailor-made to fit your career goals:
Small classes, big-time technology.
Math classes are small in size at Briar Cliff, so your professors will you know you by name — not a number (you have enough numbers to worry about!). You might even have the chance to help a faculty member with research, with the latest in computing technology at your fingertips.
Core Mathematics Program Courses
CSCI 201 - Computer Programming I
An introduction to problem solving and structured programming using C# and XNA. Students will learn the basic concepts of programming by designing game programs for the Xbox. Topics covered include basic data types, control structures and subprograms. Students will learn how to design, code, debug, document, and execute programs using techniques of good programming style. Lab included. Read more »
CSCI 202 - Computer Programming II
A continuation of CSCI 201 with C# and XNA. Topics to be covered include arrays, structures, strings, files, classes, and objects. Students will be expected to write and run a number of larger programs. Lab included. Read more »
CSCI 345 - Database Management
A study of database concepts and database management systems. Topics covered include database design, relational models, normalization and queries. Hands-on experience with database management system is provided. Read more »
MATH 217 - Calculus I
Functions, mathematical models, limits, continuity, slope and instantaneous velocity, derivatives, techniques of differentiation, related rates, linearization, exponential and logarithmic models, indeterminate forms, graphical analysis, optimization problems, antiderivatives, definite integrals, Fundamental Theorem of Calculus Prerequisite: Recommendation of the department chairperson based on mathematics assessment Read more »
MATH 218 - Calculus II
Techniques of integration, applications of definite integrals, numerical integration, improper integrals, differential equations, infinite series, convergence tests, power series, Taylor polynomials, parametric curves, polar curves, vectors, dot and cross products, lines and planes in space. Prerequisite: MATH 217 Read more »
MATH 219 - Calculus III
Vector-valued functions, curvilinear motion, functions of several variables, partial derivatives, linear approximations, directional derivatives and gradients, optimization, multiple integrals and applications, vector fields, line integrals. Prerequisite: MATH 218 Read more »
MATH 225 - Discrete Mathematics
Set theory, sequences, counting principles, probability, matrix algebra, relations, functions, algorithms, ordering and binary operations, Boolean algebras, graphs and trees. Prerequisite: MATH 111 or recommendation of the department chairperson based on mathematics assessment Read more »
MATH 324 - Statistical Methods I
Topics include probability, principles of statistical inference, inferences on a single population, and inferences on two populations. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of basic concepts and the solutions of problems using computer output from realistic data similar to that occurring in common applications. Prerequisite: MATH 111 or consent of instructor Read more »
MATH 325 - Statistical Methods II
Topics include analysis of variance, various types of regression, and other statistical techniques including t-tests and design of experiments. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of basic concepts and the solutions of problems using computer output from realistic data similar to that occurring in common applications. Prerequisite: MATH 324 Read more »
MATH 344 - Linear Algebra
Systems of linear equations, matrix algebra, determinants, vector spaces, subspaces, basis and dimension, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, linear transformations and applications. Prerequisite: MATH 218 Read more »
MATH 407 - Mathematical Statistics
Topics include probability, calculation of moments (mean and variance), calculation of moment generating functions, principles of statistical inference, distributions of random variables, and the derivation of tests of statistical hypotheses. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of basic concepts, maximum likelihood estimators, minimum variance estimators, sufficient statistics, the derivation of best tests, and the solutions of problems using computer output from realistic data similar to that occurring in common applications. Prerequisite: MATH 218 Read more »
MATH IS - Independent Math Research
Intensive study of an advanced topic in mathematics. Open to junior and senior mathematics majors. Prerequisite: consent of instructor Read more »
PHYS 231 - College Physics I
An introductory physics course for students who know calculus. Topics include vectors, motion, A force, energy, momentum, mechanical waves and fluids. Highly recommended for all secondary science teachers, mathematics majors, chemistry majors, pre-engineers and science students who plan graduate study. Three lectures, one lab. Prerequisite: MATH 218 Read more »
WRTG 225 - Organizational Communications
Newspaper headlines and bestseller titles continue to emphasize the importance in business of effective communication. Read more »
Additional Program Requirements
All incoming students will take a mathematical skills assessment to determine where in the curriculum you will start.
First-year students intending to major in mathematics should have successfully completed four years of high school mathematics including some trigonometry. If you're uncertain about your preparation, contact the department of mathematics.
For additional requirements and curriculum information, download the latest University academic catalog.