Mathematics
At Earlham, our students develop mathematical fundamentals and problem-solving skills that they can apply in a variety of disciplines or in further study of mathematics.
It’s easy for our mathematics students to design and participate in projects that explore connections between math and other interests as a class project, independent study or as a double major.
Mathematics graduates have been admitted to graduate school programs in mathematics, statistics and particle physics, among other areas.
“The mathematics degree has taught me the use of logic and tools to solve real, mathematical, and physical world problems. With the help of amazing faculty and by learning to write proofs in my math courses, I was able to pay close attention to detail and learn to formulate logical, concise, and coherent arguments which aid me in becoming a better human every day. I hope in the future I can return the favor to future generations and teach the valuable lessons I have learned.”
Antonio Midence ’23
Mathematics Major
“A math proof is 100 percent, it’s always true. There’s no disproving it. A math proof is valid, and that’s cool. I like sharing cool things with others, so I like the idea of teaching math.”
Sarah Spodek ’18
Mathematics major
“Math causes me to talk with teachers and other students in order to work through some of the problems, so math helps me develop relationships.”
Eden Shroyer ’15
Mathematics major
Combining logic and precision with intuition and imagination
You may find yourself working alongside faculty in the Math Studio or conducting research on such topics as global warming, pattern formation in animal coats and the spread of ideas during the “Arab Spring.”
Professional development
Our students participate in weekly “mathophiles” seminars and informal lunches and attend regional meetings of professional mathematicians.
Career preparation
The mathematics major prepares you for a variety of careers, and internship options abound. Recent mathematics majors have interned at the Centers for Disease Control, the National Laboratories, the National Institute for Standards and Technology, NASA and the NSA.
Our faculty
Our students and faculty work in close and continual collaboration, both in and outside of class.
Program Details
Earlham mathematics majors have gone on to become high school teachers, business managers, computer programmers, systems analysts, environmental statisticians, actuaries or mathematics professors.
As a liberal arts college, Earlham offers multiple disciplinary and interdisciplinary majors and minors in which students cultivate deep and specific knowledge and experience. Equally important, the College expects every student to develop broad, general skills and proficiencies across the curriculum.
As part of their general education, students complete six credits in each academic division of the College: humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and visual and performing arts. In addition, students meet requirements for first-year courses, analytical reasoning, perspectives on diversity and wellness.
To earn a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics, you must complete the following courses, in addition to general education requirements.
Students considering a major in mathematics are encouraged to enroll in Calculus A or Discrete Math during the Fall Semester of their first year and to discuss their plans with one of the Math faculty if they’ve taken calculus in high school.
Students majoring in mathematics are required to complete:
- MATH 180 Calculus A*
- MATH 190 Mathematical Discovery
- MATH 280 Calculus B*
- MATH 288 Introduction to Proofs
- MATH 310 Linear Algebra
- MATH 420 Abstract Algebra A
- MATH 430 Analysis A
- Either MATH 425 Abstract Algebra B OR MATH 435 Analysis B
- MATH 486 Comprehensive Independent Study
- MATH 488 Senior Capstone Experience
- Either MATH 320 Differential Equations OR MATH 350 Multivariate Calculus
- One other Mathematics course numbered 300 or above
Students intending to go on in mathematics are strongly encouraged to take MATH 320, MATH 350, both MATH 425 and 435, and at least one course in Computer Science.
* Satisfied by credit or placement
View a full list of mathematics courses and their descriptions.
Yes! To pursue a minor in mathematics, you must complete:
- MATH 180 Calculus A*
- MATH 190 Discrete Mathematics
- MATH 280 Calculus B*
- MATH 288 Introduction to Proofs
- Two other courses (totaling 6+ credits), at least one of which must be at 300+ level. These courses should be chosen from this list:
- Any 200-level or above MATH course
- MATH 140 Diversity of the World’s Mathematics
- MATH/CS/PHIL 130 Symbolic Logic
- CS 380 Theory of Computation
* Satisfied by credit or placement
View a full list of mathematics courses and their descriptions.
Recent mathematics majors have interned at the Centers for Disease Control, the National Laboratories, the National Institute for Standards and Technology, NASA and the NSA.
Yes! We encourage our majors to consider off-campus study during their time at Earlham. Learn more about your options through the Center for Global and Career Education.
Through our 3+1 Education Program, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) and teaching license—all in just nine semesters.
You’ll leave Earlham with two degrees, licensed to teach grades 5-12 in Indiana. (And it’s easy to transfer your license to other states—many of our graduates do!)
Mathematics students love puzzles. If you get excited by the challenge of solving a problem, mathematics could be for you.
Recent alumni are in graduate school studying applied mathematics, actuarial science, computer science, education, engineering, environmental science, law, mathematics, medicine, musicology or theology.