Mar 29, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Mathematics Pathway Guide


Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.

Preparation for Transfer as a Mathematics Major


The following sequences are suggested courses to take in your semesters prior to transferring to SMU as a mathematics major. For students attending a Texas public community college or university, Texas Common Course Numbers (TCCNS) are listed. If you are transferring from a college or university outside of Texas, click on the SMU course for a course description which may be used to select/compare courses at your current institution.

UC listings refer to SMU’s University Curriculum, which all undergraduates are required to complete. Refer to the University Curriculum Transfer Guide for a list of courses satisfying UC components. Interactive equivalency guides organized by transfer institution are available on the Transfer and Transition Services’ website.

Save all of your course syllabi!

Important note: These plans assume students are ready to take pre-calculus in the first semester of their college studies, so as to complete Calculus III and Linear Algebra within the first four semesters.  If students are ready for Calculus I in the first semester, they should aim to add MATH 2320: Differential Equations to this list. On the other hand, students not yet ready for pre-calculus may benefit from summer mathematics courses in order to at least complete Calculus I/II/III and Linear Algebra before attending SMU. Although it is possible to obtain the mathematics major at SMU without completing these courses ahead of time, it requires concentrating more math courses into the final two years of study, which can be difficult.

Also note that if you are planning a mathematics minor, typically only one or two transfer courses will be applied.

B.S. or B.A. in Mathematics


Semester I


Semester II


Semester III


Semester IV


Note


*The second language requirement may be satisfied by (1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, (2) placing out of four terms of a world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or (3) being literate in a native language other than English.

Mathematics Program


The Department of Mathematics  offers hands-on instruction to provide the proficiency needed to prepare students for a wide range of career possibilities, from teaching to science and engineering.  Although all arenas of mathematics are offered, the department’s particular strengths are in computational and applied mathematics.  Students may pursue both B.S. and B.A. degrees with specializations in applied and/or numerical mathematics, pure mathematics, computer science and computer engineering, engineering, and operations research.  Current research in the department includes numerical analysis of ordinary and partial differential equations, mathematical software, dynamical systems, fluid dynamics, nonlinear optics, and mathematical biology.

Majoring in Mathematics


A candidate for a degree in Dedman College at Southern Methodist University:

  • Must attain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 on all work attempted at SMU.
  • Must receive a grade of at least C- in all mathematics courses taken in fulfillment of the major or minor requirements.
  • Must complete a minimum of 18 hours of advanced work (3000+ courses) in the major in residence. This means that six out of the seven advanced mathematics courses must be taken at SMU.

The B.S. degree in Mathematics  is appropriate for students seeking careers in analytical problem solving or in graduate work in mathematical science. It requires 33 semester hours and nine hours of supporting coursework. The B.S. degree is attractive as a second major for students whose primary interest is in computer science, economics, electrical engineering, management science, physics or chemistry.

The B.A. degree in Mathematics  is designed for students who need a traditional mathematics degree leading to careers in teaching, industry, business and government. It requires 33 semester hours of mathematics and 3 hours of computer science.  The B.A. degree is attractive as a second major for students whose primary interest is in the social sciences, business, humanities or fine arts.

Minoring in Mathematics


The Mathematics Minor  consists of 18 hours of math courses.

Preparing for a Smooth Transition


A seamless transfer to SMU and the Mathematics Program requires planning. This guide is designed to assist you in planning your transition. Taking the time to prepare for your move lays the best foundation for success. The following are a few important points to remember:

  • The second language requirement of the University Curriculum may be satisfied by 1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, 2) placing out of four terms of world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or 3) being literate in a native language other than English.
  • SMU accepts AP scores of 4 or 5.
  • Work on the University Curriculum prior to transfer is highly encouraged.
  • Compare Course Descriptions found in SMU’s University Catalog to course descriptions at your current institution to maximize your awarded transfer credits.
  • For additional information on the Mathematics major, visit our department homepage or call 214-768-2506
  • For more information about transferring to SMU, click here or call 214-768-3417.

SMU Degree


A degree from SMU is typically comprised of a minimum of 122 hours, 60 of which must be completed through SMU, 42 of which must be in courses at the 3000 and higher levels. Components of the degree include:

  • Courses in your major
  • Courses required for the University Curriculum (UC) 
  • Elective courses.  These electives may also be used to add a second major or minor. 

The University Curriculum (UC)


The University Curriculum is required of all undergraduate students and consists of three main components: 

  1. Foundations - 6 hours of Discernment and Discourse courses, 3 hours of Quantitative Foundation courses, 2 hours of Personal Responsibility and Wellness courses, proficiency in a second language and 3 hours of a Ways of Knowing course (offered only at SMU)
  2. Breadth and Depth - 7 Breadth and 3 Depth courses which may double count with majors and minors
  3. Proficiencies and Experiences - 6 Proficiencies and Experiences requirements, met through Breadth and Depth coursework or approved, noncredit activities.

Apply Now!


Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.