BS in Mathematics

APU’s BA and BS mathematics majors prepare students for graduate school and for careers as quantitative experts in a variety of fields.

58-60 units

The BS in Mathematics at Azusa Pacific University provides students with a strong foundation in the mathematics of continuous change (calculus and analysis), of pattern and symmetry (linear and abstract algebra), of space (geometry and topology), of chance (probability), and of data (statistics). The major focuses on depth of conceptual understanding, rigorous mathematical proof, and problem-solving strategies. While this major does treat applications of mathematics and includes courses in physics and computer science, the emphasis is on theory. Students who prefer a focus on applications are encouraged to choose the applied mathematics major.  

A student who majors in mathematics has the option of obtaining a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Both degrees have the same mathematics requirements, but the BS degree requires a minor in physicschemistry, or computer science (see these subject areas for requirements and course descriptions).

Career Opportunities

The BS in Mathematics degree program prepares graduates to be quantitative experts in a variety of fields: secondary or university teaching, mathematical research (for business, government, or the academy), cryptography, finance and economics, statistics and data analysis, or operations research and management consulting. Mathematics is also an excellent major for quantitatively minded students who want to go into business (see the finance minor), medicine (see the premedical program) or law (see the prelaw minor). Math majors have some of the highest rates of acceptance to graduate schools in all three of these fields.  

APU mathematics graduates have advanced to prestigious graduate schools, have accepted choice offers to teach at various secondary schools, have been selected for Teach for America and Math for America, and have moved into attractive industry positions.

Students preparing for a career in actuarial science, industrial mathematics, mathematical physics, or computer science are encouraged to consider the applied mathematics major.  
 
There is a strong demand for mathematics teachers. Students desiring a junior or senior high school teaching credential should note the requirements of the single-subject waiver program for mathematics. Completion of the Secondary Math Education Track (see below) waives the CSET exam requirement for entrance into a credentialing program.

Requirements

Required Courses
MATH 165Calculus I3
MATH 166Calculus II3
MATH 167Sequences and Series F1
MATH 250Data Analysis F3
MATH 268Multivariable Calculus3
MATH 270Ordinary Differential Equations S4
MATH 280Discrete Mathematics and Proof F3
MATH 290Linear Algebra S3
MATH 400Abstract Algebra ES3
MATH 450Real Analysis EF3
MATH 480Writing 3: Mathematical Reading, Writing, and Presentation F, 13
MATH 496Mathematics Senior Seminar S, 23
PHYC 161Physics for Science and Engineering I F, 35
CS 120Introduction to Computer Science I 44
Total Units44

In addition to the required courses above, complete one of the tracks below. You must also complete a minor in physics, chemistry, computer science, or statistics.  

General Mathematics Track
Complete at least 14 units from the courses below. You must complete MATH 361 and at least one of MATH 460 and MATH 470. You cannot count both PHYC 162 and CS 125.14
Vector Calculus OF
Geometry S
Introduction to Modeling with Probability
Number Theory OF
Topology OS
Complex Analysis ES
Advanced Topics in Mathematics
Physics for Science and Engineering II S
Introduction to Computer Science II
Total Units14
Secondary Math Education Track
Complete all 16 units below. This track meets the requirements of the CTC-approved Single Subject Waiver program.
MATH 130Introduction to Statistics 53
MATH 301Mathematics for Secondary Teachers OF3
MATH 340Geometry S3
MATH 390Number Theory OF3
EDLS 202Introduction to Teaching as a Profession (7-12) 64
Total Units16
1

Meets the General Education Writing 3 requirement.

2

Meets the General Education Integrative and Applied Learning requirement.

3

Meets the General Education Natural Sciences requirement.

4

Meets the General Education Oral Communication requirement if taken with CS 290 and CS 480, or ENGR 240 and ENGR 480.

5

Meets the General Education Quantitative Literacy requirement.

6

Meets the General Education Civic Knowledge and Engagement requirement.

F Offered in Fall only
S Offered in Spring only
F/S Offered in both Fall and Spring terms
EF Offered in Fall in even years
ES Offered in Spring in even years
OF Offered in Fall in odd years
OS Offered in Spring in odd years

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program shall be able to:
  1. Master fundamental mathematical methods and problem solving strategies.
  2. Employ logical reasoning and standard proof techniques to construct rigorous mathematical arguments.
  3. Communicate mathematical ideas in speech and writing, combining precise language and notation with insightful explanation.
  4. Use mathematical models to analyze cross-disciplinary problems.
  5. Employ appropriate technology and computational techniques.
  6. Articulate how Christian perspectives and the study of mathematics and its applications mutually inform and enhance each other.