Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mathematics Degree encapsulates a program of undergraduate study that prepares students for further specialization in mathematics, such as through a PhD or Master's program in mathematics or mathematics education. In contrast, the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree is a course of study that investigates mathematics as a component of a broader liberal arts education. As such, the BA prepares a student to think critically and experience the subject without the explicit intent of further specialization. While the BA has a focus on breadth of knowledge, the BS in Mathematics seeks to provide both depth and breadth. The BS in Mathematics is meant to ensure that students acquire a solid foundation and depth of knowledge in at least three of the areas of analysis, algebra, discrete mathematics, or mathematical research. The degree requires from 51 to 52 credit hours of course work.

Note: The degree was updated in Fall 2021. Students who matriculated at SUNY Geneseo prior to Fall 2021, have the option of using the degree requirements listed below or the previous version of these degree requirements, which can be found here: BS in Mathematics (prior to Fall 2021).

Basic Requirements:

(27-28 credits) The following courses are required of all students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Degree.

* Students may also satisfy this programming requirement by taking PHYS 261 and one of MATH 345, 382, 384, or 385.
** All students should consult with their advisors or the department chair for other options.

Additional Requirements:

(18 credits) Six courses from the 300 level mathematics course offerings, chosen in consultation with the faculty advisor, so that three of the following options are completed.***

Choose 3 of the following 5 options***:

*** A course within the additional requirements may be replaced by a chair-approved course offering of MATH 380 with the appropriate content.

Elective Requirements: 

(6 credits) Students can tailor their program to academic interests and career goals with elective choices. Students must take at least 2 additional 3 credit, 300-level courses. A list of these courses and their descriptions can be found here:  List of Courses

Minimum Competence Requirement

A grade of C- or better is required for ALL courses listed as Basic Requirements, Additional Requirements, and Elective Requirements submitted in fulfillment of the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics degree. Students may not enroll in any course having prerequisites unless the minimum grade of C- has been earned in the prerequisites or unless special permission has been granted in writing by the Chair of the Mathematics Department. Prerequisite courses may not be taken after successful completion of any subsequent course.

Total Credits Required for the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics degree: 51-52