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"Philosophy is written in this grand book -- I mean the universe -- which stands continually open to our gaze, but it cannot be understood unless one first learns to comprehend the language and interpret the alphabet in which it is written. It is written in the language of mathematics, and its letters are triangles, circles, and other geometrical figures, without which it is humanly impossible to understand a single word of it; without these, one is wandering about in a dark labyrinth" (Galileo). Mathematics, Galileo suggests, is the language by which the book of the universe may be read. Physicists need that language to "read" matter and energy. To "read" rhythm and harmony, even musicians need that language. In the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Calvin College, we work together, students and faculty to explore and interpret the "alphabet in which God wrote the universe." Read on to find out about our Department's:
Major ProgramsThe Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers a complete undergraduate program in mathematics, including courses in linear and abstract algebra, real and complex analysis, applied mathematics, geometry, probability and statistics, and computer science. Mathematics majors complete a program of nine and one-half course units: two courses in Calculus, two 200-level courses, four 300-level courses, an approved interim course, and two semesters of the quarter course Mathematics Colloquium. The program must be structured to include a course in algebra, a course in analysis, a course emphasizing applications of mathematics, and a course emphasizing formal proof. Computer Science 185, a freshman level programming course is also required, and a second course in computer science is also highly recommended. Honors sections of calculus are available for students who qualify, and students who meet advanced placement requirements may begin their college work at the appropriate level. Students who plan to go on to graduate school in mathematics typically
choose courses in abstract and linear algebra, real analysis, topology,
probability and statistics, or independent study. Prospective high
school mathematics teachers are encouraged to take such courses as
modern geometry, history of mathematics, probability and statistics,
abstract algebra, and introduction to computing. Students pursuing
a career in applied mathematics typically take such courses as real and
complex analysis, numerical analysis, applied mathematics, and computer
science. Special programs can be designed for students whose interest
in mathematics intersects with another subject -- for example, biomathematics
and mathematical economics.
Minor ProgramsA minor program in mathematics consists of the two-course sequence
in calculus, two 200-level courses, and two 300-level courses. A course
in computer science is also recommended.
Interim CoursesCalvin's interim term in January allows students to devote full-time study
to a single course. In recent years the Mathematics Department has offered
a variety of interim courses:
Number Theory and Computers,
Mathematical Modeling,
Graph Theory,
Differential Equations,
and
Dynamic Programming.
The department has also sponsored an interim course abroad: Mathematics
Education Interim in England.
Extracurricular Activities for Mathematics StudentsCourse work constitutes the major part of the mathematics student's program. However, students also participate in a number of other activities sponsored by the department. Check out our Activities Page for more information about...
Career Opportunities For Mathematics GraduatesStudents graduating from Calvin College with a bachelor's degree in mathematics will find a variety of interesting careers open to them. Among our recent graduates, many have gone on to graduate school to earn advanced degrees in pure or applied mathematics. Most of them have won scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships from outstanding universities. Some have become teachers of high school mathematics, for which the demand is great. Others have pursued advanced degrees in other disciplines like computer science, statistics, physics, and economics. Many of our graduates have accepted positions in industry working as research consultants. Still others are working in operations research for private or government agencies, dealing with all variety of mathematical problems as they arise. Some have become actuaries, dealing with the mathematics of life expectancy. And some have met the challenge of recently developed fields such as biomathematics. Students who combine a mathematics major with extensive training in another field can find challenging careers in the physical sciences, economics, business, and computer science. More and more disciplines are developing techniques which involve computer science and applied mathematics. Students who are particularly interested in computers should obtain Calvin's brochure on computer science or visit the Computer Science Department website.
More information about opportunities for Mathematics students
is available from the Department's
Student Resources Page.
Why Choose Calvin College?Calvin is a Christian college. Its staff members try to create an atmosphere in which students can grow personally and spiritually as well as intellectually. Students who transfer to Calvin from larger universities especially appreciate the fine rapport among students and between students and faculty, who work together as members of a Christian community. Calvin is also a liberal arts college. It offers students not merely
technical training, but also a comprehensive education.
The FacultyAll fifteen permanent members of the Department of Mathematics and
Statistics hold doctoral degrees from major American universities.
To all of their courses they bring a distinctively Christian perspective
seeking to make real to themselves and their students the implications
of that perspective. Meet the faculty members on our
Faculty Page.
For Further InformationProgram and course descriptions for all disciplines at Calvin are available in the Calvin Catalog. Information specific to the matheamtics and statistics programs can be found in our Student Handbook.
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