Mathematics
The mathematics at New College is both challenging and exciting. The governing principles of New College's educational policy are reflected in the mathematics program which emphasizes freedom of choice for the individual student and allows each individual to direct his or her own education. Well before graduating, majors are able to work on advanced material often found in graduate school offerings.
The core program for students electing a major in mathematics includes three semesters of calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, two semesters of modern abstract algebra, two semesters of real analysis and complex analysis. In addition, students are encouraged to take courses in topology, discrete mathematics, graph theory, and number theory as well as computer science and the other sciences. Finally students are applauded for forays into other liberal arts courses in the humanities and social sciences.
There is a great deal of flexibility involving coursework for advanced students. Past advanced courses, tutorials and independent study projects have included algebraic geometry, algebraic topology, combinatorial optimization, differential geometry, differential topology, foundations of mathematics, Fourier analysis, functional analysis, Galois' theory, representation theory of finite groups, group theory, mathematical biology, measure theory, model theory, partial differential equations, probability, projective geometry, and topics in mathematical physics.
There are six faculty members in the department working broad areas of applied and pure mathematics including topology, finite groups, combinatorics, partial differential equation, fluid dynamics, mathematical biology and scientific computing. For more information please visit personal web pages of the faculty.
