Frequently Asked Questions

1. How large is the mathematics faculty?

We have 18 full-time faculty, all of whom hold doctoral degrees. They are active in many fields of mathematical research and scholarship.

2. What undergraduate degrees do you offer?

Undergraduate degrees include the B.A. and B.S. in mathematics, and the B.S. in mathematics and computer science. We also offer an 18-credit minor in mathematics.

3. What types of courses make up the undergraduate major?

A mathematics major consists of the three course calculus sequence (MATH 71, 72, 73), Introduction to Higher Mathematics (MATH 114), Linear Algebra (MATH 135A), Higher Algebra I (MATH 145), and Advanced Calculus I (MATH 171). In addition, either Higher Algebra II (MATH 146) or Advanced Calculus II (MATH 172) is required, plus 12 more credits (usually four courses) of upper level electives chosen under advisement. Students pursuing a B.S. have additional requirements. For more details, see the Programs part of the Mathematics Department web site.

4. What types of courses make up the undergraduate minor?

A mathematics minor consists of the three course calculus sequence (MATH 71, 72, 73), plus 6 more credits (usually two courses) of upper level electives chosen under advisement. For more details, see the Programs part of the Mathematics Department web site.

5. What types of courses are available for students not pursuing a degree in mathematics or the sciences?

We have several courses that are not intended for majors in mathematics or the sciences. Courses for distribution credit include Elementary Mathematical Models through Computers (MATH 13C), First Year Seminar (MATH 14F and 14S), Mathematical Excursions (MATH 30A), Explorations in Mathematics (MATH 30B), Linear Mathematics and Matrices (MATH 40), Elementary Set Theory, Logic and Probability (MATH 45), and Basic Calculus (MATH 61 and 61A). Distribution credit is also given for Precalculus (MATH 50), which is intended for those who wish to take MATH 71 but need additional preparation. We also offer Elementary Mathematical Statistics (MATH 8) plus several courses designed for those who need more preparatory work.

6. Do you offer graduate degrees?

No, currently we do not offer any Masters or Ph.D. programs.

Many of our math majors have successful careers in education, industry, finance, law, medicine and actuarial science. Others have careers in mathematics or choose to enroll in graduate programs to pursue careers in mathematics.

8. Do many students continue on to graduate school?

Yes, many students enroll in graduate programs to pursue careers in teaching and advanced industrial research. Students also pursue graduate programs in other fields, including business and statistics.

9. How do I find out more about becoming a math teacher?

The Department of Curriculum and Teaching in the School of Education can answer your questions about the additional education courses you will need for certification. If you are interested in pursuing a career in elementary education, consult the mathematics department chairperson as early as possible.

10. Are there opportunities to work with faculty on research projects?

Yes, students are given opportunities to participate in a variety of research projects. Seniors with high GPAs are encouraged to work on honors theses, qualifying them for graduation with departmental honors in mathematics. Students undertaking this option work closely with a member of the mathematics faculty on a topic often related to the faculty member's own research interests.

11. Who would a student contact for information about the senior honors thesis?

Students will often speak to one of their math professors, usually one with whom they might have an interest in working. Otherwise, a student could call the math office at (516) 463-5570.

12. Can I get credit for advanced placement exams?

Yes, we offer credit for advanced placement exams in both calculus and statistics.

Credit for AP Exam in Calculus:

AB exam:

• score of 3: credit for Math 61 (Basic Calculus with Applications – 4 s.h.)
• score of 4 or 5: credit for Math 71 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 – 4 s.h.)

BC exam:

• score of 3: credit for Math 71 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 – 4 s.h.)
• score of 4 or 5: credit for Math 71 and 72 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 and 2 – 8 s.h)

Credit for AP Exam in Statistics:

• score of 3, 4 or 5: credit for Math 8 (Elementary Mathematical Statistics – 3 s.h.)

Credit for IB Program:

• score of 4 or more in Math HL: credit for Math 71 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 – 4 s.h.)
• score of 5 or more in Math HL with Series and Differential Equations: credit for Math 71 and 72 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 and 2 – 8 s.h)
• score of 5 or more in Math HL with Probability and Statistics: credit for Math 71 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 – 4 s.h.) and Math 8 (Elementary Mathematical Statistics – 3 s.h.)

Credit for CLEP Exams:

• Calculus 50% - 79%:  Math 61 (Basic Calculus with Applications – 4 s.h.)
• Calculus 80% or more: Math 71 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus 1 – 4 s.h.)
• Precalculus 50% or more: Math 50 (Precalculus – 4 s.h.)
• College Algebra 50% or more: Math 6A (Real Numbers and College Algebra – 3 s.h.)
• Statistics 50% or more: Math 8 (Elementary Mathematical Statistics – 3 s.h.)
• College Math 50% or more: Math 999x (3 s.h.)

13. What is VEE accreditation?

To become an actuary, certain courses in economics, finance, and applied statistical methods must be taken for Validation by Education Experience (VEE) with a grade of B- or better. Hofstra University offers courses that have been certified by the Society of Actuaries as fulfilling these requirements. For more information, see the Society of Actuaries web site.

14. Is mathematics tutoring available?

The Mathematics Department runs a tutoring center for elementary courses. The center is located in 106A Adams Hall. Click here for a pdf file with more information, and click here for the tutoring center schedule. In addition, tutors are available through the University Tutorial Program.

15. Who would a student contact with questions about the math labs?

The math office can answer your questions or put you in touch with the appropriate person. The phone number is (516) 463-5570.