Mathematics, BA

Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Major: Mathematics

Program Overview

All undergraduate degrees in the Department of Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics are based on a four-course sequence in calculus and differential equations. The mathematics and applied mathematics degrees each require further mathematics courses in analysis and algebra. The statistics degrees each require a further statistics core. There are additional requirements particular to each degree program, including technical electives in the major. Each degree program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours.

The BA program in mathematics has the same focus on mathematical theory, logical problem-solving, and the process of abstraction as the BS program, and the same core 300-level courses, but it requires fewer hours of technical electives in mathematics and does not have any additional science requirement. This allows greater flexibility for students who are seeking a secondary major in mathematics, a double major with another BA degree, or just the opportunity to explore a wider selection of non-mathematics courses. Students interested in graduate study in mathematics are encouraged to pursue the BS in mathematics over the BA, but the BA provides an excellent basis for any career in which mathematical skills, rather than specific mathematical knowledge, are required.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to know fundamental concepts of linear algebra: Vector spaces, linear operators and matrices, four fundamental subspaces, matrix factorizations, and the solution theory of linear systems.
  • Students will be able to correctly analyze the solvability of linear problems in practice, and is able to solve linear systems.
  • Students will be able to know the fundamental concepts of calculus and classical mathematical analysis: Metric spaces, limits and convergence, continuity, and differential and integral calculus.
  • Students will be able to demonstrates the capability of rigorous abstract thinking, and is able to set up a rigorous mathematical proof.
  • Students will be able to know the fundamentals of abstract algebra: groups, rings, fields.
  • Students will be able to know and is able to work effectively with the elements of abstract algebra, and use them effectively in proofs and calculations.
  • Students will be able to express a given problem in mathematical terms, and/or finds the appropriate set of mathematical tools to tackle the problem, and/or is able to select and implement an algorithm that leads to the solution of the problem.
  • Students will be able to communicate effectively the results to a non-expert in mathematics, and is able to put the work in the proper context.

Teacher Licensure

Students admitted to Case Western Reserve University prior to Fall 2024 can declare a secondary major in Teacher Education and prepare for licensure in Adolescent to Young Adult (grades 7-12) in any one of the following areas: Integrated Language Arts (English major), Integrated Social Studies (history major), Integrated Mathematics (mathematics major), Life Science (biology major), or Physical Science (chemistry or physics major); or 2) Multi-Age (grades preK-12) in French, Spanish, or Latin. Eligible students interested in the teacher education program should refer to the General Bulletin for the year they entered Case Western Reserve University for the specific program requirements. 

Undergraduate Policies

For undergraduate policies and procedures, please review the Undergraduate Academics section of the General Bulletin.

Accelerated Master's Programs

Undergraduate students may participate in accelerated programs toward graduate or professional degrees. For more information and details of the policies and procedures related to accelerated studies, please visit the Undergraduate Academics section of the General Bulletin.