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Mathematics

The Mathematics program is designed to give the undergraduate a broad background in modern mathematics and its applications. The upper-division mathematics courses represent a core leading to further work in mathematics or mathematically related areas or careers in mathematics education. Applications may be pursued in such areas as systems theory, graph theory, number theory, statistics, and geometry, which are widely used in computer science, data science, business, and the physical, life, and social sciences. Students majoring in other fields whose interests require a strong background in mathematics can minor in Mathematics or choose Mathematics as a secondary major.

Degree Programs and Requirements

The Deparment of Mathematics offers one undergraduate degree program and a minor in Mathematics. See undergraduate education in the UH Hilo Catalog for a detailed description of the requirements:

Mission

The instructional mission of the Mathematics Department is threefold:

  • First, the major program is designed to prepare its students for successful careers in secondary education and other areas requiring a strong foundation in mathematics, or for success at the graduate level, either in mathematics or a related discipline. The degree is intended to familiarize students with a wide range of areas within the field of mathematics, and to instill in them an appreciation for the rigor and structure of the discipline.
  • Second, the Math Department provides extensive support to those departments requiring mathematics content for their majors, particularly those in the Natural Sciences.
  • Third, the Department services non-science majors by offering a limited selection of courses that are designed to introduce the students to the fundamental concepts that constitute classical and contemporary mathematics.

Program Goals

  • Outcome 1 (Knowledge): Fluently apply the core computational techniques found in single and multi-variable Calculus and Matrix Algebra.
  • Outcome 2 (Knowledge): Correctly identify and utilize core concepts in Algebra and/or Real Analysis.
  • Outcome 3 (Apply): Appropriately use technology in the problem-solving process using Computer Algebra Systems and/or Statistical Software.
  • Outcome 4 (Apply): Apply mathematical concepts and techniques to practical and applied problems.
  • Outcome 5 (Analyze): Distinguish valid from invalid mathematical proofs. Compose proofs independently, using a variety of theorem-proving techniques.
  • Outcome 6 (Synthesize): Identify and interpret key ideas in mathematical writing. Demonstrate the ability to articulate mathematics verbally and in writing.

Goals for Student Learning in the Major

As a result of having majored in mathematics, students are expected to develop:

  • A general understanding of the different areas of mathematics and how they interrelate, and the importance of mathematics in a scientifically-oriented society;
  • Classical theorem-proving skills, which include the ability to reason mathematically and to apply the rigor necessary to construct proofs;
  • A refined understanding of the problem-solving process;
  • A working knowledge of technology appropriate to the field;
  • The skills necessary to:
    • Read, write, translate, and articulate mathematically-related material,
    • Solve problems using a variety of techniques, including algebraic, numerical, and spatial reasoning through visualization (e.g. graphically),
    • Make inferences and generalizations.

Contributions to the General Education Program

All lower-division mathematics courses (except MATH 103 Intro to College Algebra (3) , MATH 199 Directed Studies (To Be Arranged) , and MATH 299 Directed Studies (To Be Arranged) ) satisfy the General Education Quantitative Reasoning (FQ) and Quantitative Reasoning II (GQR) requirements. Students who have fulfilled this General Education requirement should have developed an appreciation for the applicability of mathematical concepts and techniques to contemporary society.

Faculty and Staff