Applied and Computational Mathematics B.S.
Contact Information
Dr. Kyle Riley
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
McLaury 308
(605) 394-2471
E-mail: Kyle.Riley@sdsmt.edu
Faculty
Professors Braman, Johnson, Kowalski, Logar, McGough, and Teets; Associate Professors Riley; Assistant Professors Caudle, Dahl, Deschamp, Fleming and Garlick-Grieve; Instructors Bienert, Leonard, and Richard; Emeritus Professors Carda, Corwin, Grimm, and Opp.
Applied and Computational Mathematics Major
Students majoring in mathematics will use the accompanying applied and computational mathematics curriculum. The curriculum includes 55 credits of mathematics courses, 11 credits of computer science, 10 credits of sciences, and at least 9 credits of additional science and engineering courses that fall in a specific field (see emphasis area below). Any student majoring in mathematics who desires a minor in another field should consult his or her advisor in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science as early in the program of study as possible. In addition, the student must contact the Office of the Registrar and Academic Services in order to declare a minor. Departmental majors contemplating a career in actuarial science should prepare for the examinations given by the Society of Actuaries. It is recommended that this preparation be attained, in part, by selecting courses from: MATH 353 , MATH 381 , MATH 382 , MATH 447/547 , IENG 362 , and IENG 301 or IENG 302 . Information concerning these examinations can be obtained from the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science.
The primary goal of the applied and computational mathematics program is to give graduates a firm understanding of mathematics and its applications to science and engineering. Graduates are expected to develop a strong foundation of knowledge and skill in the core areas of analysis, differential equations, numerical methods, and modeling. They are also expected to attain a basic understanding of probability, statistics, and algebra. Because applied mathematicians are problem solvers, graduates must develop the ability to formulate and solve problems arising from scientific and engineering applications. This entails acquiring fundamental knowledge in the basic sciences, which School of Mines students accomplish by taking courses in an emphasis area. The student will take three courses in an external discipline that will provide exposure and depth in an application area of mathematics. Information on emphasis areas and the associated courses is available from the department or advisor.
Graduates must be prepared to continue learning throughout their careers. In the two-course sequence of MATH 498 and MATH 402 , students will have the opportunity to work with individual faculty members on research and develop their communication skills. This work will result in a technical paper and an oral presentation.
Upon graduation, some graduates pursue careers in fields such as computer software development, actuarial science, applied statistics, data analysis, and operations research. Others go on to pursue advanced degrees or seek certification to teach mathematics at the elementary or secondary levels.
An applied and computational mathematics major must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours in humanities and social sciences with at least 6 credit hours in humanities and at least 6 credit hours in social sciences. Refer to the humanities and social sciences section of this catalog for a list of courses satisfying these requirements. It is also important to refer to the general education core requirements under bachelor of science graduation requirements for further information. Students must complete the general education core requirements within the first 64 credits.
The accompanying sample schedule lists all required classes for the degree in their proper prerequisite sequence. Students should consult course listings for prerequisites and should consult their advisors at each registration.
Computer Science and Mathematics Double Major
Due to the large number of courses common to the computer science major and the mathematics major, many students find it attractive to pursue a double major in these two areas. Students seeking the double major should consult their advisors for details about this option.
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