Mathematics
Program Overview
Alfred North Whitehead described mathematics
as the most original creation of the human mind.
For more than 5,000 years, this creation has
grown and evolved. Today it permeates virtually
every intellectual discipline. The program at
the University of St. Francis is designed to
give the student a full exposure to topics in
undergraduate mathematics along with analytical
skills to continue lifelong learning and application
of mathematics. Courses in the curriculum can
prepare a student for graduate study (even in
law!), for a career in business or industry,
or for a number of other professions including
teaching. The concentration in actuarial science
can lead to a career as an actuary within the
insurance field or as a consultant. All mathematics
majors at USF culminate their studies with Senior
Seminar, which includes a research project that
challenges students to incorporate and expand
upon the knowledge acquired in their mathematics
courses. Completion of a Major Portfolio is
also a requirement of Senior Seminar. The portfolio
includes samples of the student’s mathematical
work, evidence of participation in activities
of the mathematical community, and a reflection
of mathematical growth.
Faculty
USF Mathematics faculty are committed to excellence.
They are excited about innovations in technology
and
education and committed to bringing these to the
classroom. They are also active participants in
professional organizations and workshops. Mathematics
Department faculty make themselves
personally available to cultivate the interests
of their
students and help them navigate any mathematical
bumps enroute to their career goals. The Math
Center,
part of the Academic Resource Center, is staffed
by
department faculty and top students, and serves
as a
valuable resource for students throughout the
university community.
Career Outlook
Over the past 10 years, Mathematics graduates
from
the University of St. Francis have experienced
a career
placement rate of more than 94 percent. Our graduates
work for employers such as Allstate, CNA, McDonald’s,
Buck Consultants, and the Chicago Board Options
Exchange. Many local schools employ graduates
of our
Mathematics teacher certification program.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many
fields
that employ those with mathematics backgrounds
are
expected to show steady growth in the coming years.
Technological advances will continue to rapidly
evolve,
and applications for mathematics will continue
to
expand; consequently, more workers with knowledge
of
mathematics will be needed. Mathematics majors
that
can apply theory to real-world problems, and possess
good communication, teamwork, and computer skills,
will have a distinct advantage in the job market.
A
mathematics degree from the University of St.
Francis is
designed to provide that advantage.