Mathematics

Course Information

Welcome

Assumption College’s Department of Mathematics and Computer Science provides a strong foundation for students looking to enter a variety of professional fields and study at the graduate level. Develop your critical thinking and learn to solve problems, skills that are in high demand in today’s job market.

Benefits and Features of a bachelor’s in mathematics from Assumption College

Apply your classroom learning to real-world situations. Over 70% of students completed an internship last year.
Benefit from small class sizes that allow faculty to know your strengths and help you achieve your goals.
Share your love of mathematics with future students by completing a double major in mathematics and education.
Consider a minor in information technology, which will allow you to enhance your resume and make you a valuable asset to any company.
Prepare for a successful career as an actuary when you graduate with certifications needed to enter the field.

Program Overview

Mathematics is at the foundation of nearly everything we do. From science to business to everyday life, we depend on math to keep our world running.

At Assumption, mathematics students grapple with equations and devise solutions to complex problems under the instruction of our expert faculty. You'll have the opportunity to study math in a stimulating and supportive environment where you can develop the reasoning abilities and technical proficiency sought after by employers in fields ranging from business to engineering to education.

Major

Students pursuing a major in mathematics take a total of eleven (11) courses (33 credits) and an oral comprehensive examination.

Minor

A minor in mathematics consists of six (6) courses (18 credits).

Teacher Preparation

Students interested in the education double major should consult with the chairperson of the Mathematics Department and the Education Program Coordinator in the Education Department to plan a course of study.

Engineering

Students in mathematics or computer science may choose to take advantage of Assumption’s engineering partnership with the University of Notre Dame, one of the nation’s leading engineering universities.

Degree Requirements

Major

The major consists of a total of twelve (12) required courses, which comprise eight specifically required courses, four electives, and an oral comprehensive examination. Students considering a major in mathematics are encouraged to take MAT 131–132 rather than MAT 117–118 in their first year.

Required Courses

MAT 131-132 Elementary Calculus I and II OR MAT 117-118 Calculus I and II
MAT 231-232 Intermediate Calculus I and II
MAT 202 Discrete Structures
MAT 203 Linear Algebra
MAT 401 Mathematics Seminar
CSC 117 Introduction to Programming

Electives

A minimum of four additional mathematics courses numbered above 200 or PHY 213 Introduction to Engineering. At least two electives must be 300-level courses, including at least one course chosen from:

MAT 332 Real Analysis
MAT 351 Modern Algebra I
MAT 358 Topology

Senior Oral Exam

Each mathematics major must pass an oral comprehensive examination administered at the end of the senior year. The exam is based on material covered in the required courses.

The required courses are offered every year. Elective courses are offered in alternate years. Students should consult with an advisor in the department to plan their program.

Minor

A minor in mathematics consists of six courses:

MAT 131-132 Elementary Calculus I and II OR MAT 117-118 Calculus I and II
MAT 202 Discrete Structures
Three additional courses from the mathematics courses numbered above 200 with at least one course numbered above 300.

Teacher Preparation

Students interested in the education double major should consult with the chairperson of the mathematics department and the education program coordinator in the education department to plan a course of study.

The required courses for the major and the following elective courses address the subject matter knowledge prescribed by the Massachusetts Department of Education for the field of licensure.

MAT 204 Number Theory (licensure for grades 8–12)
MAT 208 Probability Theory (licensure for grades 8–12)
MAT 351 Modern Algebra I (licensure for grades 8–12)
MAT 353 Advanced Euclidean Geometry (licensure for grades 5–8, 8–12)
ECO 115 Statistics OR PSY 265 Statistics (licensure for grades 5–8, 8–12)

Faculty

In addition to their excellent teaching credentials, the Mathematics and Computer Science faculty have extensive experience in their fields. This blend of the practical and scholarly results in a rich classroom environment where course concepts and theories are integrated with real-world applicarion. Our teachers are also mentors and get to know students individually. Faculty advisors assist students with everything from course selection to exploring their career opportunities.

	Joseph Alfano Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Department Chair of Mathematics and Computer Science
	Brooke Andersen Assistant Professor of Mathematics
	Joyce Brown Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science
	Charles Brusard
	Kevin Carlin Associate Professor of Mathematics
	Vincent Cioffari Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science
	Robert Fry Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science
	William Katcher Assistant Professor of Computer Science
	Suzanne Kelton Associate Professor of Mathematics
	Suzanne Kozak Visiting Instructor of Mathematics

Courses

MAT 111 INTRODUCTORY MATHEMATICS
An introductory course in basic algebra which covers the following topics: properties of real numbers, linear equations and inequalities, functions and graphs, polynomials, fractional algebra, radicals, and rational exponents. Not open to those who have completed any other mathematics course. (Fall, Spring)

MAT 114 ELEMENTARY FUNCTIONS
A survey of those topics in algebra, trigonometry, and analytic geometry which provide the background for the study of calculus. Topics to be covered include exponential and logarithmic functions, complex numbers and polynomial functions, trigonometry, plane analytic geometry, and systems of linear equations and inequalities. Not open to those who have completed MAT 117 or 131. Prerequisite: MAT 111 or departmental permission through placement. Counts in the Core Curriculum Requirements as Mathematics Group A. If only one Mathematics course is taken to fulfill the Core requirement in Mathematics, it must be at this level or higher. (Fall, Spring)
Staff/Three credits

MAT 117 CALCULUS I
An introductory course in differential calculus. Topics to be covered include limits and continuity, the derivative and applications, and an introduction to integration. Not open to those who complete MAT 131. Prerequisite: MAT 114 or department permission through placement. (Fall, Spring) Staff/Three credits

MAT 118 CALCULUS II
The continuation of MAT 117. Topics to be covered include the definite integral and applications, elementary techniques of integration, partial derivatives, and first- order differential equations. Not open to those who complete MAT 131 or MAT 132. Prerequisite: MAT 117. (Fall, Spring)
Brown/Three credits

MAT 131–132 ELEMENTARY CALCULUS I AND II (Honors)
A more rigorous introduction to calculus for entering students with good backgrounds in mathematics. Recommended for students considering a major in mathematics. Topics include the real numbers, functions, limits, the derivative and applications, the integral and applications, and techniques of integration. Not open to those who complete MAT 117 or MAT 118. Prerequisite: Departmental permission through placement. (131 in Fall, 132 in Spring)
Creek/Three credits each semester

MAT 150 NUMBERS AND OPERATIONS FOR EDUCATORS
In this course, students will investigate fundamental mathematics concepts associated with numbers, operations, and patterns. One of the major goals of the course is for students to develop deeper conceptual understandings of the mathematics concepts they will teach in the elementary and middle grades. Not only will students gain computational proficiency but also the ability to explain to students, in multiple ways, why mathematics concepts make sense. The course heavily emphasizes the use of open- ended problem-solving methods of teaching and learning to help students develop their own functional understanding of the major concepts. A significant focus of this course will be on problem solving, reasoning and proof, multiple representations, recognizing connections (across mathematics and other disciplines), and mathematical communication. The course is intended for students planning on pursuing a career in elementary or middle school education. As such, particular attention is given to understanding common misconceptions that children have when learning about specific mathematics concepts and considering the ramifications of these misconceptions for the development of effective classroom instruction. This course is a prerequisite for EDU 324: Mathematics Teaching in the Elementary Classroom. Prerequisite: MAT 114 or higher. (Fall, Spring) Staff/Three credits

MAT 151 ALGEBRA, GEOMETRY, AND DATA ANALYSIS FOR EDUCATORS
In this course, students will investigate fundamental mathematics concepts associated with algebra, geometry, and data analysis. One of the major goals of the course is for students to develop deeper conceptual understandings of the mathematics concepts they will teach in the elementary and middle grades. Not only will students gain computational proficiency but also the ability to explain to students, in multiple ways, why mathematics concepts make sense. The course heavily emphasizes the use of open-ended problem-solving methods of teaching and learning to help students develop their own functional understanding of the major concepts. A significant focus of this course will be on problem solving, reasoning and proof, multiple representations, recognizing connections (across content areas and disciplines), and mathematical communication. The course is intended for students planning on pursuing a career in elementary or middle school education. As such, particular attention is given to understanding common misconceptions that children have when learning about specific mathematics concepts and considering the ramifications of these misconceptions for the development of effective classroom instruction. Recommended for elementary education majors and middle/secondary mathematics education majors. Prerequisite: MAT 114 or higher. (Spring)
Staff/Three credits

MAT 202 DISCRETE STRUCTURES
This course is an introduction to mathematical logic and discrete systems. Topics include Boolean algebra, mathematical proof, sets, relations, functions, induction, combinatorics, graph theory, and applications. Prerequisite: MAT 118 or MAT 132 must be completed or taken concurrently. (Fall)
Andersen/Three credits

MAT 203 LINEAR ALGEBRA
Linear systems of equations, matrix algebra, determinants, vector spaces, linear transformations, matrix representations of linear transformations, and applications. Prerequisite: MAT202. (Spring)
Alfano/Three credits

MAT 204 NUMBER THEORY Divisibility theory, prime factorization, congruences, Fermat’s theorems, the phi-function, Euler’s Theorem, and applications. Prerequisite: MAT 202. (Spring 2018, Spring 2020)
Staff/Three credits

MAT 207 ACTUARIAL MATHEMATICS
Mathematical theory and practical application of compound interest, including the measurement of interest, annuity calculations, loan repayment, and security valuation. Stress laid on theoretical foundations, derivations, and proofs. Introduction to financial simulation. Prerequisite: MAT 202. (Fall 2018, Fall 2020) Katcher/Three credits

MAT 208 PROBABILITY THEORY
Combinatorial problems, conditional probability, dependence and independence, probability measures, distributions, and stochastic processes. Prerequisite: MAT 118. (Spring)
Staff/Three credits

MAT 231–232 INTERMEDIATE CALCULUS I AND II
A second-year course in calculus, designed to follow either MAT 118 or MAT 132. Topics to be covered include methods of integration, parametric curves, polar coordinates, sequences and series, power series, Taylor polynomials, vector geometry, vector functions, multivariable functions, and partial differentiation. Prerequisite: MAT 118 or MAT 132. (231 in Fall, 232 in Spring)
Andersen/Three credits each semester

MAT 331 CALCULUS OF VECTOR FUNCTIONS
A course in the calculus of vector-valued functions and of functions of several variables. Topics to be covered include curves and surfaces in Euclidean n-space; the derivative and the differential of a vector function; the chain rule; the inverse function theorem and the implicit function theorem; multiple integrals and the change of variable theorem for multiple integrals; the theorems of Green, Gauss, and Stokes. Prerequisite: MAT 232. (Fall 2018, Fall 2020)
Staff/Three credits

MAT 332 REAL ANALYSIS
A course in classical real analysis. Topics to be covered include the real number system; convergence of sequences; limits and continuity of functions; differentiation; and integration. Prerequisite: MAT 232 or permission of instructor. (Fall 2017, Fall 2019)
Staff/Three credits

MAT 351 MODERN ALGEBRA I
An introductory course in abstract algebra. This course will cover the theory of groups and the definitions of rings and fields. Prerequisite: MAT 202. (Fall 2018, Fall 2020) Staff/Three credits

MAT 352 MODERN ALGEBRA II
The continuation of MAT 351. Topics include advanced group theory, and the theory of rings and fields. Prerequisite: MAT 351. (Spring 2017, Spring 2019) Staff/Three credits

MAT 353 ADVANCED EUCLIDEAN GEOMETRY
Theorems of Menelaus and Ceva. Euler line and nine-point circle. Cross-ratio, harmonic division, and orthogonality of circles. Inversive geometry. Theorems of Pappus, Desargues, and Pascal. Elementary transformations. Prerequisite: MAT 118 or MAT 132. (Fall 2017, Fall 2019) Brusard/Three credits

MAT 355 DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
First and second order differential equations. Linear differential equations and linear systems. Existence and uniqueness theorems. Applications. Prerequisite: MAT 232 must be completed or taken concurrently. (Spring 2019, Spring 2021)
Carlin/Three credits

MAT 356 NUMERICAL ANALYSIS
Roots of equations. Analysis of errors. Convergence. Interpolation and polynomial approximation. Numerical differentiation and integration. Solving linear systems, unstable matrices. The computer is used throughout the course. Prerequisite: MAT 118 or MAT 132. (Spring 2018, Spring 2020)
Brown/Three credits

MAT 358 TOPOLOGY
An introductory treatment of both point-set and combinatorial topology. Topics to be covered include topological spaces and metric spaces, classification of surfaces, homology (mod 2), and map-coloring theorems. Prerequisite: MAT 202, and MAT 232 or permission of instructor. (Spring 2018, Spring 2020)
Fry/Three credits

MAT 401 MATHEMATICS SEMINAR
The topic is determined by the instructor. Emphasis is placed on student oral presentations. Required course for senior mathematics majors. (Fall)
Alfano/Three credits

MAT 402 MATHEMATICS THESIS
Available only to highly qualified students. Under the direction of an individual instructor, each student will complete a thesis (either expository or research) on some advanced topic in mathematics. (Spring)
Staff/Three credits

NOTE: Semesters given with a year indicate courses that are offered in alternate years.

Internships & Outcomes

Internships

Students may participate in the College’s internship program and spend a semester gaining practical experience. There are two types of internships. Students can earn academic credit by working with an academic advisor and the internship site. Or students may participate in a career internship, which provides valuable experience but does not offer academic credit. Both types of internship experiences offer students the experience needed to enhance their educational experiences and prepare them for post-graduate successes

Jesse Brunelle

Jesse Brunelle
Majors: Computer Science and Engineering '15
Internship: Intern at Loftware Inc.
3:2 Program: Engineering Partnership with the University of Notre Dame

"The experiences that I had at Assumption, both in and out of the classroom, were an integral part of my preparation for the internship at Loftware Inc. My studies at Assumption provided me with the skills to overcome any challenges that I faced, and I even used completed project work from Assumption to give myself an edge during the interview process."

Alex Casey

Alex Casey
Majors: Mathematics and Physics '15
3:2 Program: Civil Engineering at University of Notre Dame

"Assumption prepared me for success in the Engineering program at Notre Dame by ensuring I had a solid understanding of the fundamentals of math and the sciences. My professors Dr. Alfano and Dr. Georgiev have both been extremely influential in my education and both have pushed me to where I am today. Assumption has given me this amazing opportunity along with all the tools necessary for success."

Graduate Schools and Careers

Assumption mathematics and computer science students either go on to graduate studies in mathematics or computer science or enter directly into careers in such fields as business, communications, education, finance, health care and information technology. Here’s a sampling of where Assumption alumni are adding to our world:

Sampling of Employers

American Express
George Washington University
Meditech
Oracle
Raytheon
School districts:
- Bristol, Conn.
- Fitchburg, Mass.
- Killeen, Texas
- Milton, Mass.
- San Francisco, Calif.
- Wells River, Vt.
- Worcester, Mass.

Sampling of Graduate Schools

Boston College
Dartmouth College
North Carolina State University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

#ACachieves

Christopher Cuzzupe

Computer Science and Liturgical Music '17

IT Intern for the Infrastructure Technology Organization Group at The Hanover

I am responsible for assisting with projects that involve the Infrastructure Technology Organization at The Hanover. I am working with many different types of databases within the organization, making reports and gathering the necessary requirements to upgrade these databases.
Liliana Urso

Mathematics '16

Internship: Research Experience for Undergraduates at Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Post-Grad Plans: Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Boston University

At WPI, I worked on a research project with sustainable infrastructure materials. I’ll be published along with other graduate students and professors for our research. This experience has helped me prepare for my graduate degree and my future endeavors!
Nadia Sweeney

Education and Mathematics '16

Internship: Student Teacher at Forest Avenue Elementary School

My student teaching experience has taught me that forming relationships with your students is so important. Taking time to learn where they come from and about their background helps me to tailor my teaching styles. I want to make every student feel comfortable in my classroom so they can reach their potential.
Natalie Snow

Secondary Education and Mathematics '15

Student Teacher at Shrewsbury High School

"My professors at Assumption have been extremely helpful both before and during my internship. Professor de la Cruz has guided me and gives me exceptional input on how to be successful in my career. Student teaching and guidance from my cooperating teachers have taught me how to be an effective teacher."
Alex Casey

Mathematics and Physics '15

3:2 Program: Civil Engineering at University of Notre Dame

"Assumption prepared me for success in the Engineering program at Notre Dame by ensuring I had a solid understanding of the fundamentals of math and the sciences. My professors have been extremely influential in my education and have pushed me to where I am today."
Jesse Brunelle

Computer Science '15

Intern at Loftware Inc.

"The experiences that I had at Assumption, both in and out of the classroom, were an integral part of my preparation for the internship at Loftware Inc. My studies at Assumption provided me with the skills to overcome any challenges that I faced, and I even used completed project work from Assumption during the interview process."

Contact Information

Joseph Alfano

Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Department Chair of Mathematics and Computer Science

jalfano@assumption.edu

508-767-7468

2018-2019 Course Catalog

Academics