Just as the Core provides the foundation for addressing key intellectual questions, one’s major program of study is intended to provide a depth of knowledge and sophistication in a defined field of study.
Majors range from nine to 19 courses, depending on the specific requirements of the different departments. When selecting a major, students should carefully review the requirements as described in the College Catalog.
Minors permit students to use their free electives with intellectual effectiveness and precision—to take a cohesive set of courses that complement studies in one’s major or to explore an unrelated area of intellectual interest.
Minors typically require five to seven courses and are counted towards one’s electives. Each program outlines its particular requirements for a minor, so check the College Catalog for more information and a complete list of available minors. Minors are not available in all academic departments, yet some minors do not have a corresponding major.
The computer science program prepares students for either graduate work or employment in computer science. Students receiving the BA will have sufficient breadth and depth for either graduate study or immediate employment in computer science. Recipients of the BS will also have substantial depth and breadth in a field outside of computer science through the completion of an approved related area.
Mathematics provides an environment of research and comprehensive instruction in mathematics and applied mathematics. Both a BA and a BS program in mathematics are offered, including a BS degree in applied mathematics and a BS degree in mathematics with a specialization in economics.
The modern science of statistics involves the invention, study, and development of principles and methods for modeling uncertainty through mathematical probability; for designing experiments, surveys, and observational programs; and for analyzing and interpreting empirical data. The Statistics program explores principles and methods in combination with training in mathematics and some exposure to computing, which is essential to nearly all modern data analysis.