Mathematics

Overview of the Program

Math majors study both discrete and continuous mathematics. The major includes a mix of required and elective courses, and the study of both pure and applied mathematics.

All math majors will take three semesters of workshop calculus, a combination of classroom work and computer lab. Students take abstract mathematics classes, in which they learn how to prove theorems, as well as courses in which the computer is used to solve real-world problems.

Some students choose to earn certification in secondary education, which enables them to teach math in middle and high school settings after graduation. Others go on to graduate school, or work in corporations or government positions.

Hood also offers a dual-degree program in engineering with The George Washington University. In this program, students study mathematics and liberal arts at Hood for three years and then transfer to GW for two years of engineering coursework. This gives students the experience of learning at a small liberal arts college and at an urban university. At the end of five years, students will have earned two degrees: a bachelor of arts in mathematics from Hood College and a bachelor of science in engineering from GWU.

Why Major in Math?

Studying mathematics will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. With a major in math, you can go on to law or business school, pursue graduate study in mathematics or another field, or obtain a well-paying job in government or industry. You can easily combine mathematics with another major; many of our students double major in mathematics and chemistry, political science, economics, computer science or music.

Why Major in Math at Hood?

Hood students are expected to be active learners. They perform experiments, collect data and discover patterns. They work with other students on group projects. Together with a lab partner, they explore mathematics on the computer and individually they read and write about mathematics.

Students at Hood work closely with faculty members. Classes are small, and students can explore topics which interest them. Our senior seminar, the history of mathematics, is student-organized and student-run.

Research has shown that these teaching methods are good for everyone, but they are particularly good for women. Mathematics is a field in which women have traditionally been underrepresented; at Hood, we are committed to educating women and offering them unlimited career opportunities.

In Hood's new Hodson Science and Technology Center, students and faculty in mathematics, computer science, biology, chemistry and physics work side by side. Students can participate in our Summer Research Institute, working closely with faculty on research projects.

Outside of the classroom, the Math Club takes advantage of Hood's location by arranging visits to the Smithsonian and the Maryland Science Center. Math students participate in the annual national competition in mathematical modeling. They attend conferences and give presentations. They are members of professional organizations. They complete exciting internships in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, and they enter graduate school or the work force with valuable skills.

Internships

Math majors at Hood are encouraged to complete internships to help with career planning and graduate school preparation. Recently, Hood math students have completed internships at the following locations:

Actuarial Computer Technology, Inc.
Frederick County Public Schools
Harris Corporation
Mathematical Association of America
National Institute of Standards and Technology
National Museum of American History (Smithsonian)
Office of Naval Intelligence

Alumnae and Alumni Success Stories

We are proud of the success of our students, and of the role we play in helping them to be successful in so many fields. Here are some quotes from our graduates:

"The math program at Hood College far exceeded my expectations. Each course gives you specific skills you will need to enter the workforce or graduate school. Specifically, the computer programs that I learned in my math courses, as well as a modeling project I completed, directly led to my employment after graduation. The professors were extremely accessible and encouraging throughout my entire time in the program!"
- Class of 2008

"The mathematics curriculum at Hood is very unique. The emphasis on ‘discovering’ mathematics and applying course material in homework and lab exercises have certainly enriched my problem solving skills and understanding of the material at hand. The math department at Hood also stresses the importance of group projects which enabled me to gain the skills required to work successfully outside of the educational institution.
Currently, I am a software engineer at Harris Corporation where I will apply the knowledge I acquired in the mathematics curriculum, including such courses as numerical analysis, mathematical modeling, calculus and computer science." - Class of 2008

Recent mathematics graduates of Hood are currently working with the following firms and organizations:

Aberdeen Proving Grounds
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Census Bureau
Constellation Energy
Frederick County Schools
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Maryland National Bank
U.S. Air Force

Hood mathematics graduates are also attending the following graduate schools pursuing advanced degrees:

Hood College
Marymount University
Towson University
University of Georgia
University of Maryland
University of Nebraska

For complete information in our online catalog, click here.