2018-2019 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Mathematics
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David Hendricks, Chair
ACU Box 28012
Abilene, Texas 79699-8012
Onstead Science Center, Room 173
Phone: 325-674-2007
Email: chair@math.acu.edu
Web: www.acu.edu/mathematics
Faculty
Phyllis Bolin, Associate Professor
John Ehrke, Associate Professor
David Hendricks, Associate Professor
Alexander Karabegov, Professor
Mark Riggs, Professor
Cheryl Schwiethale, Instructor
John Smallwood, Assistant Professor
Traci Yandell, Instructor
The Department of Mathematics offers the Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and the Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics. High school teacher certification in mathematics may be obtained with the Bachelor of Science. A minor in mathematics may be added to other majors.
Introduction
As the language in which nature speaks to us, mathematics has been a vital ingredient in physics and chemistry and the intellectual fabrics of a broad range of disciplines, increasing its impact on such diverse areas as space science, management and the social sciences. More recently, the fundamental role of mathematics has been recognized in biology and medicine. Moreover, it has long been an essential component of the school and college curriculum, especially for the preparation of scientists and engineers. Mathematics is the foundation of our technological society and is a growing, changing discipline with new results constantly being discovered. The computer has extended the reach and power of mathematics, making it even more crucial that young people be solidly grounded in the subject. Mathematics is a crucial component of our culture and a discipline essential to the well-being of American science and technology, as well as to economic strength, industrial competitiveness and national defense.
The department offers a variety of undergraduate programs to meet those needs.
The Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics has the flexibility to permit a student to tailor the degree plan to fit individual needs. Courses required for this degree expose one to a wide range of mathematics and to thought patterns and problem solving skills useful in all of life. This degree is excellent preparation for many careers and has the flexibility to prepare one for graduate study in mathematics, statistics, operations research, medicine, business, and many other areas.
The Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics teaching is designed to prepare high school mathematics teachers. There are several courses in this degree which are specifically tailored to the needs of students preparing to pass the Texas teacher certification examination in mathematics for grades 7 to 12.
The Bachelor of Science in mathematics with a concentration in actuarial science is designed specifically for students whose career goals include the actuarial field. Coursework in mathematics and business prepares the student to pass the initial actuarial exams and receive credit required by the American actuarial societies.
The Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics is a strong liberal arts degree. The degree requires a minor, and it is suitable for anyone wanting a degree in mathematics while at the same time taking several courses in a different discipline.
The department expects any graduate with a major in mathematics to have the following abilities: (1) to analyze and solve problems using techniques of undergraduate mathematics; (2) to undertake independent study of literature in mathematics; (3) to communicate in both oral and written form the results of mathematical problems and/or investigations; and (4) to use technology in solving mathematical problems.
ACU’s elementary mathematics courses are planned so that students who take precalculus or calculus start at a level suitable to their preparation. Placement in these courses is based on results from the mathematics placement exam.
Credit by examination for calculus is available through national exams. More information is available at the university testing center.
Study Abroad Expectations
All students are encouraged to participate in ACU’s Study Abroad program. Classes offered at Study Abroad sites vary depending on the site. Academic advisors can assist students in planning ahead for their Study Abroad experience and should be consulted during the freshman year.
Admissions Requirements
Before being admitted to a program, a student must satisfy the requirements listed in the ACT/SAT Placement Information section of this catalog. Students planning to use the BA in mathematics as a basis for entering the teaching profession at the high school level should refer to the Department of Teacher Education for a list of admission requirements to the Department of Teacher Education .
ProgramsBachelor of ArtsBachelor of ScienceMinorCoursesMathematicsMathematics Workshop
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