Vanderbilt University: Mathematics A Requirement?

Mathematics is a popular major at Vanderbilt University, with the university ranking 6th in the US for the subject. The Department of Mathematics offers a flexible undergraduate program with three tracks: Standard, Applied, and Honors. The standard entry point for math courses is calculus, and students can choose from various calculus sequences depending on their intended number of semesters and their major. Vanderbilt offers a wide range of mathematics courses, including linear algebra, differential equations, algebra, analysis, topology, and geometry. The university also provides resources such as the Calculus Café and tutoring services to support students in their mathematical studies.

Calculus as an entry point

Calculus is the entry point for students wishing to study mathematics at Vanderbilt University.

Math major tracks

The Department of Mathematics at Vanderbilt University offers a high degree of flexibility to its students, with three distinct math major tracks. The Standard Track, Applied Track, and Honors Track are designed to cater to different student profiles and academic goals. Here's an overview of each track:

• Standard Track (Program I): This is the most common path for mathematics majors in the College of Arts and Science, Blair School of Music, and Peabody College. It requires at least 32 credit hours in mathematics, including a calculus sequence and linear algebra and differential equations. Students must also complete at least 15 additional credit hours from 2800-level courses or higher.
• Applied Track (Program II): This track is tailored for students in the School of Engineering who pursue a second major in mathematics, although it is open to other students as well. It requires a minimum of 29 credit hours in mathematics, including a calculus sequence, linear algebra, and differential equations. Additionally, students must complete at least 12 credit hours from 2800-level courses or above, excluding 3000. One unique aspect of this track is the requirement of at least six credit hours of advanced, mathematically-based science or engineering courses approved by the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
• Honors Track (Program III): This track is designed for highly qualified students who plan to pursue graduate studies in mathematics or aim to graduate with departmental honors. It requires a minimum of 38 credit hours in mathematics, including a calculus sequence, linear algebra, and differential equations, as in the Standard Track. The distinguishing feature of this track is the requirement of at least 21 additional credit hours of advanced coursework, including specific courses in algebra, analysis, and topology and geometry. Students who successfully complete this program and a senior thesis will graduate with departmental honors.

Each math major track at Vanderbilt University offers a unique path, catering to different student interests and career aspirations. The Standard Track is suitable for a broad range of students, while the Applied Track is tailored for those in the School of Engineering or seeking a second major in mathematics. The Honors Track, on the other hand, is designed for those aiming for graduate studies or departmental honors.

Math minors

A minor in mathematics at Vanderbilt University requires at least 15 credit hours in mathematics. The following conditions must be met:

• Completion of a calculus sequence: 2300, 2310, or 2500-2501.
• Linear algebra and differential equations: as in the Applied Track.
• At least 6 credit hours not used to satisfy the previous condition from 2800 or above.

The completion of a single-variable calculus sequence (1300–1301) is a prerequisite for the minor, but does not count toward the credit hours of the minor.

If you need to deviate from the stated requirements in the catalog, you should discuss your situation with the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS). The DUS will submit a “variance request” to the College of Arts and Science, which oversees the math minor (even if you are not a College of Arts and Science student). When the College approves the variance request, appropriate notes will be made in your online degree audit.

The Department of Mathematics at Vanderbilt University is one of the largest in the College of Arts and Science in terms of the number of majors and credit hours taught. It provides many opportunities for students to immerse themselves in mathematics beyond the approximately 150 classes offered each year.

Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities such as the Math Club, Undergraduate Seminar, Vandy Quant Club, and Actuarial Science Club. There are also active chapters of Pi Mu Epsilon (the national mathematics honor society) and the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM).

Math courses for specific majors

The math courses that students at Vanderbilt University have to take depend on the specific program they are enrolled in. The Department of Mathematics offers three tracks: Standard, Applied, and Honors.

The Standard Track is intended for most mathematics majors in the College of Arts and Science, Blair School of Music, and Peabody College. It requires at least 32 credit hours in mathematics, including at least 15 credit hours taken at Vanderbilt. The required courses include a calculus sequence, linear algebra, and differential equations.

The Applied Track is intended for students in the School of Engineering who elect a second major in mathematics, but it is also available to other students. This track requires at least 29 credit hours in mathematics, including at least 15 credit hours taken at Vanderbilt and 6 credit hours outside the department. The required courses include a calculus sequence, linear algebra, and differential equations, as well as at least 6 credit hours of advanced, mathematically-based science or engineering courses approved by the Director of Undergraduate Studies.

The Honors Track is intended for highly qualified students who plan to pursue graduate studies in mathematics or graduate with departmental honors. This track requires at least 38 credit hours in mathematics, including at least 15 credit hours taken at Vanderbilt. The required courses include a calculus sequence, linear algebra, differential equations, and at least 21 additional credit hours of advanced coursework in algebra, analysis, and topology or geometry.

In addition to these three tracks, the Department of Mathematics also offers a minor in mathematics, which requires at least 15 credit hours, including a calculus sequence, linear algebra, and differential equations.

Math-related clubs and societies

Mathematics is a popular subject at Vanderbilt University, with the Department of Mathematics offering a flexible undergraduate major with three distinct tracks. The department also provides a range of math-related clubs and societies for students to join. These include:

• Vanderbilt Math Club (VMC): The VMC is a group for undergraduate math enthusiasts, offering weekly talks on various mathematical topics, networking opportunities, and competitions. The club strives to create a welcoming environment for all Vanderbilt undergraduates interested in mathematics.
• Actuarial Science Club: This club is specifically mentioned as a recommendation for students interested in becoming an actuary.
• Pi Mu Epsilon: Tennessee Zeta Chapter: A mathematics honour society that encourages and recognises students who show an interest and promise in mathematics.
• Vanderbilt Student Chapter of the Association for Women in Mathematics: A chapter of the Association for Women in Mathematics, which promotes women in mathematics and their research.

In addition to these math-focused clubs and societies, Vanderbilt University also has several engineering-related student organisations. These include the National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers, and Engineers without Borders. These organisations provide opportunities for students interested in the application of mathematics in engineering fields to connect and engage in technical issues.

Frequently asked questions