Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Mathematics BA


Are you captivated by the beauty of patterns and intrigued by the inherent logic of the universe? If so, mathematics may be the perfect choice. By immersing yourself in mathematics, you can unlock the power to decipher the secrets of nature, develop technology, and comprehend the interconnectedness of the world around us. Mathematics underpins everything from encrypting messages and predicting climate change to medical imaging, machine learning and much more. Whether you dream of unraveling the mysteries of the universe or utilizing mathematical models to shape the future, a mathematics degree gives you the flexibility to make a meaningful impact.

Visit the Mathematics academic program page for more information about the academic experience, who you will learn from, opportunities outside of class and what you can do with this degree.

Visit the Mathematics department page  for contact information, a brief overview of the department and the curricular options.

Admission Criteria


Current UB students seeking admission to the Mathematics BA will be added to the major upon request by completing the College of Arts and Sciences Major/Minor Change Request Form.

Course Requirements


Mathematics - General Curriculum Core (36 credits)


Notes


  • Any 300/400-level MTH course, except for MTH 306 MTH 309 MTH 323 MTH 326 MTH 495 -MTH 499 , which is not already being used towards another major requirement, is acceptable.
  • For these purposes, STA 301 LEC  and STA 301 REC   are considered equivalent to MTH 411 , and hence as a 400 level MTH course. Likewise, STA 302 LEC   and STA 302 REC  are considered equivalent to MTH 412 . Each of the courses STA 301 and STA 302 will count at 4 credits towards the 12 credits of electives. No other non-MTH courses can be used towards this requirement. MTH 419 -MTH 420  and MTH 431 -MTH 432  are designed for students who want intensive preparation in analysis and modern algebra, and are not good choices to just fill out a schedule

Total Credits Required for Major: 36


Additional Degree Requirements Include:


  • Additional coursework to fulfill UB Curriculum requirements
  • Elective courses as needed to complete the 120 credit hour total

Total Credits Required for Graduation: 120


Total Credit Hours Required represents the minimum credits needed to complete this program, and may vary based on a number of circumstances. This should not be used for financial aid purposes.

Academic Requirements


  • Minimum 2.500 major GPA required.

Continuation in the major will be contingent on completing MTH 141  MTH 142  and MTH 241   (or Honors equivalent or transfer-equivalent courses), with a 2.500 GPA or higher. Students with a Calculus GPA below 2.500 may be eligible for provisional admission. Contact 716-645-8785 or math-undergrad@buffalo.edu to make an advising appointment.

Transfer Credit Policy

All UB Mathematics majors must complete at least four upper-division mathematics courses, numbered 311-489, excluding MTH 323 MTH 326 , and MTH 399 , at UB. 

Program Honors and Program Distinction


Majors are eligible for Program Honors upon completion of an honors thesis under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Students typically complete MTH 499  in the fall semester and MTH 497  in the spring semester, although the timing is flexible and students may complete the thesis before their last semester. Students must also meet the remaining Program Honors criteria outlined in the Academic Honors policy

Majors who do not pursue a thesis but have exceptional grades are eligible for Program Distinction upon degree conferral if the criteria are met. These criteria are also found in the Academic Honors policy.

Students who successfully complete Program Honors and meet the criteria will have the appropriate notation on their official transcript. Program Distinction is also noted on the official transcript.

Curricular Plan


A Curricular Plan provides a roadmap for completing this academic program and the UB Curriculum on time. Your actual plan may vary depending on point of entry to the university, course placement and/or waivers based on standardized test scores, earned alternative credit and/or college transfer credit.


YEAR 1


Fall Semester

Spring Semester


YEAR 2


Fall Semester

Spring Semester


YEAR 3


Fall Semester

Spring Semester

  • 300/400 MTH Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
    Total Credits: 15

YEAR 4


Fall Semester

  • 300/400 MTH Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
    Total Credits: 15

Spring Semester

  • 300/400 MTH Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 3
    Total Credits: 15

TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 120

Note: Some classes may count toward both a major and UB Curriculum requirement.

Learning Outcomes


By the time of graduation, students majoring in mathematics should have acquired the following knowledge and skills:

  • Proficiency in basic computational methods in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations.
  • Facility with computer-aided computations
  • The ability to write clear and rigorous mathematical proofs.
  • The ability to apply mathematical modeling to problems arising in other disciplines.
  • A basic understanding of methods and the subject matter of various mathematical disciplines (analysis, algebra, applied mathematics, geometry and topology).

 

(HEGIS: 17.01 MATHEMATICS- GENERAL, CIP27.0101 Mathematics, General)