Mathematical Sciences, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a concentration in secondary teacher preparation

The curriculum in mathematical sciences promotes understanding of the mathematical sciences and their structures, uses and relationships to other disciplines. To this end, the scholarly growth of the faculty and students in the mathematical sciences is nurtured through study, research and a high standard of teaching. The curriculum provides a sound foundation for the student seeking to enter a career with a technological orientation or for the student who wishes to pursue graduate study in applied mathematics, biomathematics, mathematics, operations research, statistics, teaching mathematics in secondary schools or related fields.

A Bachelor of Science is offered jointly by the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics and the Department of Statistical Sciences and Operations Research. In the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences can choose a concentration of secondary teacher preparation, which prepares students for teaching mathematics in secondary schools when completed in conjunction with the Master of Teaching degree offered through the School of Education as part of the Extended Teacher Preparation Program.

Student learning outcomes

Upon completing this program, students will know how to do the following:

Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences core outcomes

• Solve mathematical problems
• Solve and interpret mathematical problems which originate from applications outside of mathematics
• Use technology to solve and/or explore mathematics problems

Secondary teacher preparation concentration-specific outcomes

• Write mathematics (not including mathematical proofs) clearly, concisely and correctly
• Write mathematical proofs clearly, concisely and correctly
• Read and comprehend mathematical works
• Collaborate in projects
• Make effective presentations to demonstrate their understanding of mathematical ideas
• Write prose about mathematics
• Use appropriate practices to teach secondary school level mathematical ideas

Special requirements

The B.S. in Mathematical Sciences requires a minimum of 120 credits. Along with the general education requirements of the College of Humanities and Sciences and the undergraduate degree requirements, students are required to take core courses and fulfill specific requirements for the degree.

Based on the results of the Mathematics Placement Test, students may be required to take MATH 151. No more than one course in mathematics (MATH) at the 100 level can count for the general requirements toward the degree. Credit for 100-level mathematical sciences courses cannot be applied toward the mathematical sciences courses required for the major in mathematical sciences.

Double major

Students who meet the requirements for two of the concentrations within the mathematical sciences curriculum can receive a double major. To initiate a double major, students must obtain the appropriate form from the Office of Records and Registration.

Second baccalaureate degree

For students possessing a bachelor’s degree and wishing to gain undergraduate preparation in an area of mathematical sciences, second baccalaureate degrees are offered through the department. For detailed information about these programs, refer to the “Academic regulations and general degree requirement” section of this bulletin.

Degree requirements for Mathematical Sciences, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a concentration in secondary teacher preparation

The minimum number of credit hours required for this degree is 120.

Natural science sequence

What follows is a sample plan that meets the prescribed requirements within a four-year course of study at VCU. Please contact your adviser before beginning course work toward a degree.