Mathematics has long been regarded as a natural component of a liberal arts education because of its strong analytical, problem-solving emphasis. More recently, our technological and data-driven society has brought increased recognition of the importance of mathematical and statistical reasoning, making a mathematics, data science and statistics, or actuarial science major - or a math, math teaching, or stats minor - an excellent choice for anyone considering a career in industry, scientific research, data analysis, predictive modeling, engineering, or education.
At Northwestern, we believe that the utility of mathematics for those and other fields follows from its power as a universal language. Mathematics and statistics courses offered here are designed to develop and sharpen your skills in this language in part because increased mathematical understanding can bring an increased awareness of and appreciation for the order behind God’s creation and for the attributes of God reflected in creation.
We also believe that mathematics is one and eternal, shining forth from the mind of God. That we can comprehend some part of mathematics is evidence that human beings are created in the image of God. That the one and eternal God has enabled our mathematical discovery is an excellent reason to deepen our understanding of mathematics.
Program Learning Goals. Upon completion of the program:
1: Students will demonstrate a working knowledge of data collection, organization, visualization, analysis, and interpretation.
2: Students will demonstrate effective communication of mathematical knowledge and ideas.
3: Students will display an appreciation for mathematical sciences as creative disciplines.
4: Students will recognize mathematical structure as a reflection of God’s character that is present in God’s creation.
5: Students will articulate real-world applications of mathematical concepts.
6: Students will articulate their own sense of calling to use their analytical training in service to the world.
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