BA in Mathematics
57 units
The BA 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 additional focus on applications are encouraged to choose the BS in Mathematics or the BS in Applied Mathematics.
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 computer science, chemistry, data science, or physics, or additional upper-division STEM coursework.
Career Opportunities
The BA in Mathematics prepares students 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 pre-medical/dental/veterinary studies) 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 secondary schools, have been selected for Teach for America and Math for America, and have moved into attractive industry positions.
Requirements
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| MATH 165 | Calculus I | 4 |
| MATH 166 | Calculus II | 4 |
| MATH 250 | Introduction to Data Science F | 3 |
| MATH 260 | Introduction to Number Theory and Proofs | 3 |
| MATH 268 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 |
| MATH 290 | Linear Algebra S | 3 |
| MATH 310 | Ordinary Differential Equations S | 4 |
| MATH 340 | Geometry | 3 |
| MATH 342 | STEM Writing and Communication | 3 |
| MATH 396 | Topics in Mathematics and Christian Thought | 2 |
| MATH 450 | Real Analysis EF | 3 |
| CS 120 | Introduction to Computer Science I 1 | 4 |
| CS 160 | Discrete Structures | 3 |
| PHYC 165 & PHYC 145 | Physics for Science and Engineering: Mechanics and Physics Laboratory I 2, F | 5 |
| Select one of the tracks below | 9 | |
| Total Units | 57 | |
- 1
Meets the APU Core: Oral Communication general education requirement (taking CS 120, CS 290, and CS 480—or CS 120, ENGR 240, and ENGR 480—satisfies the Oral Communication requirement).
- 2
Completion of PHYC 145 and PHYC 155 or PHYC 165 meets the APU Core: Natural Science general education requirement.
Standard Track
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 361 | Introduction to Modeling with Probability | 3 |
| MATH 400 | Abstract Algebra | 3 |
| MATH 470 | Complex Analysis ES | 3 |
| Total Units | 9 | |
Secondary Math Education Track
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 130 | Introduction to Statistics 1 | 3 |
| MATH 301 | Mathematics for Secondary Teachers OF | 3 |
| EDLS 210 | Learning from A to Z: Launching Your Journey in Education | 3 |
| Total Units | 9 | |
- 1
Meets the APU Core: Quantitative Reasoning general education 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 |