Site created by Ajahne Santa Anna. Copyright © 2005 Tufts University Department of Mathematics. All Rights Reserved.
Courses
People
Undergraduate Program
Graduate Program
Department History
Colloquia
Math Club
SIAM Student Chapter
News
Home Find Us Site Map

Undergraduate Program

| Intro | Careers | Plan Your Program | Major | Minor | Related Courses |

In addition to the fundamental courses in linear algebra, abstract algebra, and analysis (Math 46, Math 135/136, and Math 145/146), the department frequently offers the following courses.

  • Math 22, Discrete Mathematics, can be taken at an early stage and simultaneously with another mathematics course. It covers topics that are essential in theoretical computer science and other applications areas.

  • Math 38, Differential Equations, gives an introduction to ordinary differential equations, that is, differential equations for functions of a single variable. Differential equations are of vast importance in both pure and applied mathematics. Most mathematical models in the sciences and engineering are differential equations.

  • Math 41, Number Theory, allows the student to sample the flavor of pure mathematics at an early stage. The course can be taken simultaneously with any calculus course.

  • Math 112, Topics in the History of Mathematics, gives an introduction to the evolution of mathematics from its roots in antiquity to modern times.

  • Math 126, Numerical Analysis, is a course about solving problems arising in calculus and linear algebra (for instance, integration, differential equations, systems of linear equations, and eigenvalue problems) by computer algorithms. This material is of great importance in many applications.

  • Math 128, Numerical Linear Algebra, is similar in spirit to Math 126, but focuses entirely (and in much greater depth) on linear algebra problems Ð systems of linear equations and computation of eigenvalues and eigenvectors.

  • Math 151, Applications of Advance Calculus, has recently evolved into an introductory course on partial differential equations, that is, differential equations for functions of several variables; see the comments about Math 38 concerning the wide importance of the topic. The course is cross-listed with ME 150.

  • Math 158, Complex Variables, is concerned with the extension of calculus and analysis to the complex plane; it is widely applicable to other areas of pure mathematics as well as to the natural sciences and engineering.

  • Math 161/162, Probability/Statistics, is a one-year sequence. Math 161 has been offered every fall, and Math 162 every spring. Probability is one of the great branches of pure analysis. In addition, this course sequence is of special relevance to students preparing for graduate study in statistics, applied mathematics, operations research, or actuarial science, as well as careers in industry.

  • Math 163, Computational Geometry, cross-listed as Computer Science 163, is an introduction to the design and analysis of computer algorithms for geometric problems.

  • Math 167, Differential Geometry, and Math 168, Algebraic Topology, are introductions to the third great core area of mathematics, geometry/topology (the other two are algebra and analysis). These courses present some of the major mathematical techniques of the twentieth century in a concrete and intuitive form. In recent years, they have only been offered occasionally. Students interested in taking them are encouraged to make their interest known to the mathematics faculty!

  • Math 171, Computational Mathematical Logic, provides a study of the logical foundation of mathematics. It has been offered sporadically only.

  • Special topics courses are regularly offered as "Math 50" and "Math 150" to complement and broaden the course offerings.

    • Engineers who are mathematically inclined do not need many additional courses to complete a double major in mathematics upon appropriate choice of curriculum. All engineers are required to take Math 13 and many are encouraged to take Math 46 anyway. Math 161-162 should be taken in place of CE102. Many engineers are required to take ME 150 (cross-listed with Math 151). The main additions to the curriculum would then be Math 135 and Math 145. To choose mathematics as a second area of concentration an engineering student must notify the dean of engineering through the Department of Mathematics at least one semester before graduation. The student must complete a program that simultaneously satisfies the requirements of the Engineering College and the Mathematics Department. Substantial overlap between the requirements in mathematics and computer science facilitates the double major. All mathematics majors are required to demonstrate knowledge of a computer language. The most common way of satisfying this requirement is to take an approved course in computer science (CS 10 is acceptable).