Mathematics . . .
At UW-River
Falls, mathematics
is viewed as
both the foundation for
the sciences and a
significant field of
knowledge in its own
right. Our mathematics
instruction is dedicated
to nurturing and
developing students’
creative mathematical
talents as problemsolvers.
Department of Mathematics
207 North Hall
(715) 425-3326
Undergraduate Catalog
Goals and Objectives
- to provide students with quality instruction that allows them to experience mathematics in
such a way that they become flexible, analytical thinkers;
- to provide a climate in which mathematical literacy, the free exchange of mathematical ideas
and active engagement in learning mathematics flourish.
Program and/or Curriculum
UW-River Falls offers two degree programs for mathematics
students. The liberal arts major is designed as a comprehensive program in mathematics
for students who want to pursue professional careers in mathematics upon graduation from
UW-River Falls or after further graduate study. The secondary education major was created to
provide preparation for students seeking careers as high school or middle school mathematics
teachers. This program includes the professional training necessary for effective teaching.
Faculty
The faculty members of the mathematics department have diverse backgrounds and
research interests which include: combinatorics, differential equations, mathematics education,
mathematical engineering, numerical analysis, probability, and statistics. Our department provides
a wide range of opportunities for students to work closely with professors on research
and advanced mathematical study.
Study Opportunities and Organizations
Field trips to mathematics conferences
are scheduled several times each year. Students can attend to exchange research results with
students and professors from other universities through discussion and formal presentations.
Energy research affords students with a unique opportunity to work as assistants in applying
mathematics to practical problems. Senior seminar projects provide students with valuable
experiences in problem solving, research, writing reports, and making presentations. Advanced
statistical study helps prepare students for work in actuarial science and related fields.
Independent study can be arranged to explore mathematical topics beyond those in the standard
curriculum. Campus mathematics organizations include the Math Club which organizes
field trips, picnics, and informal study sessions; MAA–Mathematical Association of America
which provides information on mathematical science careers, inexpensive access to undergraduate
mathematics journals, and social interaction with other mathematics students; and
NCTM–National Council of Teachers of Mathematics which offers opportunities to attend conferences
in mathematics teaching and provides access to inexpensive professional journals.
Career Opportunities
The employment outlook for mathematics majors is excellent. In
2001, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the fastest growing jobs are mathematics-related.
Jobs are available for mathematicians in a wide variety of industries and government agencies.
Companies involving computers, insurance, aerospace, control systems, and distribution
networks hire mathematicians yearly.
The careers that math majors typically follow are high quality. Recently, five of the top ten jobs
rated by the Jobs Rated Almanac on characteristics such as job security, income, and satisfaction
levels, were math-related.
National and international demands for workers with better mathematics preparation are
resulting in increased mathematics requirements for students and improved mathematics programs
at the precollege level. These are challenging, exciting, and rewarding times for mathematics
teachers, and many new teachers are needed throughout the United States.
