Why Mathematics?

The word “mathematics” originates from the ancient greek word μαθηματικά (mathēmatiká), which means “the subjects of learning.” Centuries later the mathematics that we teach our students has changed dramatically but the fundamental ethos of the field has not. We are teaching students how to think critically and solve complex problems. We are teaching them, and ourselves, how to learn. In the process of studying mathematics in our department, our students will obtain the following concrete skills.

Data Literacy

Through courses in statistics, applied mathematics, and mathematical modeling, our students acquire the tools to understand, analyze, and evaluate data effectively.

Creative Problem Solving

From our introductory calculus courses to our upper-level courses in pure and applied mathematics, our students cultivate their ability to form innovative solutions to complex problems.

Abstraction

Throughout our curriculum, our students learn to identify common patterns and structures across a wide array of complex problems and systems, allowing them to apply an idea from one problem to many other different-seeming problems.

Logical Reasoning

Through coursework, independent studies, Immersion projects, and directed readings, our students develop the skills to construct valid arguments, to decide what is true and false, and to communicate ideas with clarity and precision.

Modeling the World

From calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations to data science, financial math, and mathematical biology, our students learn to place real-world problems into a mathematical framework.

Together, these skills give our students a foundation for critical thinking, allowing them to break a complicated problem into a series of steps and to pay attention to all assumptions. They can test their own conclusions—and those of others—to ensure they are based on adequate data and accurate reasoning.

Our graduates leave not just with knowledge of mathematics, but with a disciplined way of thinking that empowers them to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully wherever their paths take them.