Department of Mathematics
https://www.hsutx.edu/academics/undergraduate-majors-minors/mathematics-degrees/
Head of Department
Andrew J. Potter
325-670-5826
HSU Box 16060
apotter@hsutx.edu
Faculty
Leah Cole, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Sherri Clowe-Tompkins M.Ed. Assistant Professor
Andrew Jay Potter, Ph.D., Professor
Jessica Rieger, M.Ed., Assistant Professor
Objectives
The department offers programs leading to Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Behavioral Science, and Bachelor of Science degrees.
Students are encouraged to learn by doing mathematics. Appropriate attention is given to theory and experience is provided in a variety of interesting applications. Computers and the science of computing play important roles in the programs in the department. Mathematics preparation is provided to help the student take advantage of career opportunities in business, government, and education. Prerequisites for upper-level study in mathematics at the graduate level are also included in the department’s programs.
A student who graduates with a major in mathematics will (1) have the knowledge and skill to set up and solve problems; (2) be able to use computers in support of mathematics problem-solving; (3) be able to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, mathematical ideas and results; and (4) have an appreciation for the place of mathematics in culture.
Students who plan to become professional mathematicians or who plan to use mathematics in a career other than teaching should choose a program in either the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. If the student has a special interest in computer science or one of the natural sciences, the Bachelor of Science degree program should be selected. Students who plan to become secondary school mathematics teachers should choose one of the programs in the Bachelor Arts or Bachelor of Science degree with 7-12 certification. Students who plan to become middle school mathematics teachers should choose the program in the Bachelor of Behavioral Science degree.
Notes:
- Students who major or minor in mathematics should begin with MATH 1420, Calculus I, unless deficient in mathematics preparation.
- Qualified students are encouraged to earn credit by examination. See “Credit by Examination”
- Courses designed to fulfill degree requirements should be carefully selected in consultation with the department and the student’s advisor.
- MATH 0300 Intermediate Algebra is required in preparation for MATH 1310 College Algebra or MATH 1305 Finite Mathematics for Business, if the ACT math score is below 18 or SAT math score below 510, or do not score above 45 on the ALEKS-PPL Mathematics Placement Exam
- Students are encouraged to use calculators, graphing calculators, and computers.
Teacher Preparation Program
Students seeking teacher certification in Mathematics should refer to the Irvin School of Education section of this catalog for Texas certification requirements. All students seeking certification must have the written consent of the head of the Department of Mathematics to be eligible to receive a bar code from the Dean of the Irvin School of Education to take the TExES.