Overview
Opening Doors
Mathematics has been called the universal language of the world. This language is used to describe the model phenomena in the sciences, humanities, and arts. Even more exciting than the questions that have been answered by mathematicians are the questions that have yet to be answered or have yet to be posed.
To provide students with the foundation and skills for pursuing those questions, the mathematical sciences department provides courses in both pure and applied mathematics, as well as in statistics.
Mathematics majors choose diverse career directions, including but not limited to:
- Mathematics education
- Positions in business and industry
- Professional schools
- Graduate studies in mathematics or statistics
Our undergraduate program in mathematics reflects the diversity of student interests as well as the diverse nature of the mathematical sciences. In their study of mathematics, students will develop and hone their problem-solving and critical thinking skills that will "open doors wider", serving well both society and the students in all aspects of their lives.
Beyond the Classroom
Many opportunities outside the classroom offer math majors an enriched campus life and a look at the profession in practice. Department activities include:
- Math Club - sponsors social events, guest speakers and field trips. In past years, students have visited IBM, EROS Data Center, Control Data and other locations.
- Math on the Northern Plains Conference
- Merten Hasse Mathematics Competition
- Internships
- Opportunities for undergraduate research
- Pi Mu Epsilon - national mathematics honor society
- Spring math awards banquet
Math Seminars
Join us for Seminars in pure and applied mathematics, presented by faculty from USD as well as from other universities. Speakers present their own or collaborative research, based on already published papers or works in progress. Learn, be inspired, and get new ideas!
Math Emporium
No need for math anxiety. The Math Emporium offers one-on-one and small group tutoring for all math courses at the Calc I level and below.
Scholarships
USD's Math Department offers many Scholarships for students who pursue math as a field of study.
Teaching Excellence
Our Faculty is committed to teaching excellence. Smaller class sizes and a dedication to student success ensures a faculty accessible to students, providing opportunities for individual assistance both in and out of the classroom.