1. How large is the mathematics faculty?
We have 13 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 BA and BS in Mathematics, the BS in Mathematical Finance, and the BS in Mathematics and Computer Science. We also offer an 18-credit minor in mathematics.
3. What 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), Abstract Algebra I (MATH 145), and Real Analysis I (MATH 171). In addition, two of Abstract Algebra II (MATH 146), Real Analysis II (MATH 172), and Complex Analysis (MATH 173) are required, plus 9 more credits (usually three courses) of upper level electives chosen under advisement. Students pursuing a BS have additional requirements. For more details, see the department's programs.
4. What courses make up the undergraduate minor?
A mathematics minor consists of the two-course calculus sequence (MATH 71 and 72), plus 10 more credits of upper level electives chosen under advisement. For more details, see the department's programs.
5. What 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 First-Year Seminar (MATH 14F or 14S), Mathematical Excursions (MATH 30A), Linear Mathematics and Matrices (MATH 40), Logic, Sets, and Probability (MATH 45), and Basic Calculus (MATH 61 or 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.
7. What types of careers can students expect after they graduate?
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, recent math majors have pursued advanced degrees in math, applied math, statistics, computational finance, law, atmospheric science, actuarial science, public policy, and education. Students double-majoring in math and science have pursued advanced degrees in physics, astronomy, engineering, chemistry, and neuroscience.
9. How do I find out more about becoming a math teacher?
The Department of Teaching, Learning & Technology Programs 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 can earn credit for faculty-supervised research by taking either MATH 180 (Research Experience in Mathematics) or MATH 190 (Departmental Honors). Some students choose a particular subject that interests them and seek out a faculty member with expertise in that subject. More often, though, students find a professor they feel comfortable with and agree to work on a topic related to that professor's own research interests.
11. Can I get credit for advanced placement exams?
Yes, we offer credit for advanced placement exams in both calculus and statistics. Details can be found here.
12. What is VEE accreditation?
To become an actuary, certain courses in economics, accounting, finance, probability, and mathematical statistics 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.
13. Is mathematics tutoring available?
The Mathematics Department runs a tutoring center for elementary courses. The center is located in Roosevelt 301. In addition, tutors are available through the Undergraduate Tutorial Program.