Mathematics - Albright College

Mathematics - Albright College
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Mathematics
Where curiosity meets clarity — and problems become possibilities.
Mathematics at Albright College builds a strong foundation in reasoning, problem-solving, and quantitative thinking that prepares students for diverse careers and advanced study.
About the Program
Mathematics offers an important way of viewing, analyzing and interpreting the world.  It allows us to observe patterns, develop conjectures and make predictions.  We strive to nurture a mathematical point of view in our students at all levels whether they are pursuing a liberal arts education in the humanities, in need of mathematical skills to complement other fields of study or wish to study mathematics as a core discipline.
We also aim to provide a thorough undergraduate training in mathematics for those students who wish to pursue graduate study in mathematics, teach mathematics in the secondary school systems, or work in various fields of business and industry.
What You’ll Learn
General education mathematics courses with substantive skill development in quantitative and abstract reasoning
Linear algebra, abstract algebra, and structural reasoning
Mathematical reasoning, problem solving and communication abilities
Communication of mathematical ideas both orally and in writing
Use and appreciation of technologies relevant to the study of mathematics
Hands-On Learning
Mathematics students at Albright gain practical experience through classroom investigations, independent study, seminars, and research opportunities. The department hosts a monthly math problem competition.
Program Goals
Course Requirements
Opportunities
Faculty
Become confident in their ability to do mathematics and statistics
Become mathematical problem solvers
Learn to communicate, reason, and function mathematically in a mathematical, statistical, and technological learning community
Apply both qualitative and quantitative methods to problems
Demonstrate oral communication skills
Demonstrate written mathematical communication skills
Full Course Catalogue
Course Descriptions
Combined Major Requirements
MAT 131 Calculus & Analytic Geometry I
MAT 132 Calculus & Analytic Geometry II
MAT 233 Calculus & Analytic Geometry III
MAT 250 Foundations of Mathematics
MAT 320 Linear Algebra
Two elective mathematics courses at the 300-400 level
One elective mathematics courses at the 400 level
Students interested in the actuarial profession should take MAT 131, 132, 233, 250, 310, 320, 360, 491, CSC 141, ECO 105, 207, and 307, and should co-major in accounting or business.  Exam P and Exam FM should be taken before graduation.
Secondary Mathematics Education
Mathematics Majors preparing for a career in education take Math courses and a series of Education and other courses specified by the Education Department to meet Pennsylvania Department of Education regulations. As early as possible in their college experience, candidates for teacher certification in Math should consult the Requirements section of the Education website and the chair of Education regarding specific course requirements. The Mathematics Education certification is a grades 7-12 program.
Monthly Problem Competition:
Students can participate in a monthly mathematics problem challenge organized by the department, providing opportunities to sharpen problem-solving skills, engage with peers, and explore creative approaches to mathematical questions.
Mathematics Colloquium:
Attend departmental talks and lectures featuring visiting mathematicians and faculty presentations on current mathematical research, applications, and problem-solving topics. Recent examples include:
“The Joy of SET: Mathematics in a Game”
– exploring mathematical patterns through the card game SET
“Color Me Proper”
– advanced graph theory and edge coloring problems
Internships and Career Support
Students can connect with the
Career Development Center
to find internships in finance, data analytics, actuarial work, technology, or education, applying mathematical skills in professional settings while developing career-ready expertise.
ACRE Undergraduate Research
Students in any major can engage in interdisciplinary undergraduate research through the
Albright Creative Research Experience (ACRE)
, partnering with faculty mentors to pursue independent research or creative projects and present their work beyond the classroom.
Brian Buerke , Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Physics
Patrick Cesarz
Adjunct Faculty
Devon Mason , Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Physics
David Nawrocki , Ph.D., '87
Associate Professor of Mathematics
Andrea Schaeffer
Adjunct Faculty
Curriculum Highlights
Core courses that build depth and rigor (MAT 131, 132, 233,250, etc.)
Six electives at the 300–400 level allow exploration in topics like probability & statistics, differential equations, geometry, numerical analysis, topology, and complex analysis.
Use of tools such as MATLAB, Maple, Mathematica, graphing calculators, and other analytic software
Capstone experience focused on independent research and presentation skills (MAT 491)