Programs

Math and Statistics

Math majors do everything and anything. Each year some students enter graduate programs in the mathematical sciences or in allied fields (engineering, business, economics, physics, operations research). Some go on to medical school, law school, and other professional schools. Others begin careers in schools, banks, and other financial institutions, software companies, insurance companies, and research laboratories. 

Statistics is used in most of the professions, in most sectors of the economy, and in a great many academic areas. Each year some students enter graduate programs in statistics, or in allied fields (business, economics, education, or psychology). Many students enter the job market and later pursue advanced degrees. For more details please see the Mathematics and Statistics section of the Course Bulletin. All courses are designed to contribute in various ways to the College’s Learning Goals and the Math Department's Learning Goals.

Courses and Requirements 

See the Mathematics chapter of the course catalog >

See the Statistics chapter of the course catalog >

Mathematics/Economics Special Major

The special major in mathematics and economics requires at least ten courses above the 100-level and must include at least five 300-level courses divided between the two departments.  The Mathematics/Statistics and Economics departments have agreed that approval is automatic for special majors including the courses below.  Variations may be discussed with faculty advisers from each department.

Economics

Two required courses:

  • 211 Macro theory
  • 212 Micro theory

Advanced courses - at least two 300-level courses, including at least one of:

  • 307 Seminar in Industrial Organization
  • 320 Econometrics

Mathematics

Three Required courses : 

  • 203 Multivariable Calculus
  • 211 Linear Algebra
  • 251 Laboratory in Mathematical Experimentation, or 232 Discrete Mathematics

Advanced courses - at least two courses chosen from: 

  • 301 Real Analysis
  • 333 Differential Equations
  • 339 Mathematical Finance
  • 342 Probability
  • 343 Mathematical Statistics

Statistics/Economics Special Major

The special major in statistics and economics requires at least ten courses above the 100-level and must include at least five 300-level courses divided between the two departments. The Mathematics/Statistics and Economics departments have agreed that approval is automatic for special majors including the courses below. Variations may be discussed with faculty advisors from each department.

Reminder: The special major must consist of at least five (5) 300-level courses within the two departments.

Economics 

Three Required Courses:

  • 211 Macro Theory
  • 212 Micro Theory
  • 320 Econometrics

Electives - at least one other 300-level course.

Statistics

Two Required Courses:

  • 203 Multivariable Calculus
  • 211 Linear Algebra

Electives - at least two courses chosen from:

  • 240 Elementary Data Analysis and Experimental Design
  • 340 Applied Regression Methods
  • 342 Probability
  • 343 Mathematical Statistics
  • 344 Seminar in Statistics and Scientific Research

Engineering Dual-Degree Program

Mount Holyoke students can earn a degree in engineering in different ways, either by earning a master's or PhD degree in engineering after graduation from Mount Holyoke or by earning a second bachelor's degree, through what is called a Dual-Degree Engineering program.

Five College Biomathematical Sciences Certificate

The Five College Certificate in Biomathematical Sciences is currently available to students enrolled at Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges.

A minimum of six courses are required:

  • One gateway course: Frontiers in Biomathematics (IDP 170)
  • 4 courses in the life sciences (Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry) or 4 courses in the quantitative sciences (Math, Statistics, Computer Science)
  • A capstone course in biomathematical or biostatistical methods or an honors thesis in a biomathematical sciences topic
  • A research experience of one summer (or equivalent) with a team of life and mathematical science mentors.

The four courses are expected to complement the student's major. For example, life sciences majors would take four courses on the Math/Stats/Computer science side and alternatively, quantitative science majors would take four courses on the life sciences side. At least two of the complementary courses should be upper level courses. Hybrid courses, e.g., computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics, would count toward either life sciences or quantitative sciences. Frontiers in Biomathematics (offered Spring only) is the only course that is exclusive to the certificate.

Teacher Licensure in Mathematics

Students interested in teaching mathematics can combine a mathematics major with a minor in education. See the department of psychology and education's Teacher Licensure Program for more information.

Fifth Year MS in Statistics

A Five College student can earn a Masters degree in statistics in a fifth year. See the MS degree program at UMass for more information.