Mathematics

Degrees Offered:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Overview

The mathematics major at Barton offers a well-balanced program designed to give you the foundation you need to pursue a career in the private or public sector. You’ll not only master the traditional core of calculus, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, statistics and geometry; you’ll also have electives that include number theory, applied algebra, and graph theory. This blend of both the theoretical basics and the practical applications means you’ll have the knowledge base as well as the essential skills for the 21st century.

Special Features

We offer a Pre-Engineering preparatory program in which you spend three years at Barton before completing an additional two years of study at a partner institution. This program allows you to earn a degree in mathematics from Barton and an engineering degree from the other college or university. Contact the Department of Science and Mathematics for detailed information on the Pre-Engineering program.

We encourage you to double major or pursue a minor. Mathematics majors have double majored and/or minored in biology, chemistry, accounting, business administration, physical education, and elementary and middle school education.

Course Information

Your first math course at Barton College is determined by your score on the Math Placement Test (MPT).  Click here for more details.

Required math courses for both the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees are:

• Differential Calculus
• Statistical Concepts
• Discrete Mathematics I
• Integral Calculus
• Introduction to Linear Algebra
• Elements of Modern Geometry
• Multivariate Calculus
• Ordinary Differential Equations

The Bachelor of Science degree requires three electives and the Bachelor of Arts requires one elective. Electives in the major include:

• Applied Algebra
• Number Theory
• Discrete Mathematics II
• Mathematical Statistics
• Modern Algebra

Additional Requirements:

• If you pursue the B.A., you must complete one year of an intermediate foreign language.
• If you pursue the B.S., you must complete one year of physics or chemistry.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The John Walston Dunn Mathematics Scholarship is awarded annually to a junior or senior mathematics major. Selection criteria include a minimum 3.00 GPA, an enthusiasm for learning, and a willingness and patience to assist others in learning mathematics.

The Ruth O’Neal Scholarship is awarded to mathematics majors in a variety of classes who meet the minimum 3.0 GPA criteria, participate in departmental activities, and demonstrate the potential for excellence.

As a math major, you’ll have work-study opportunities through our math lab, a free peer-tutoring service offered by the department.

Career Opportunities

A degree in mathematics from Barton prepares you for a career in nearly any field. A mathematician can work in areas such as:

• Teaching
• Federal, state, and local government
• Consulting
• Computer services
• Financial services
• Research and development

Students who have graduated from Barton with a degree in mathematics have entered graduate programs in education, mathematics, mathematics education, and statistics. They’ve received master’s and doctoral degrees from such institutions as:

• East Carolina University
• Florida State University
• North Carolina State University
• North Carolina Central University