Biomathematics
MISSION STATEMENT
An increasing number of problems in the biological sciences are being solved using sophisticated mathematical and computational tools. The biomathematics degree blends mathematics, biology, and computer science in preparation for continued graduate studies and for careers in the quantitative life sciences. The degree's mission is to provide a world class undergraduate education in applied mathematics used in support of the life sciences.
The degree's mission is supported and motivated by these facts:
- Biological data is being generated with unprecedented precision and in unfathomable volumes.
- Quantifying biological observations requires mathematical and statistical analysis.
- The basic principles of complex biological systems support mathematical and computational modeling, which can lead to testable hypotheses and new discoveries.
PROGRAM GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The biomathematics degree will provide a broad based undergraduate experience that 1) prepares students with a rigorous education in applied mathematics, 2) educates students in the fundamental principles of biology, 3) trains students to work in a computational arena, 4) introduces students to several of the sister disciplines of computational biology, mathematical biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, and biostatistics, and 5) guides students through an advanced undergraduate research project. The degree will also liberally educate students through the study of the humanities and social sciences. Students of the program will be encouraged to participate in external and internal research programs and industrial internships and/or co-ops.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES
Graduates will be prepared for graduate study in any of the sister fields as well as for careers in the quantitative life sciences. Each graduate will complete a capstone research experience that will culminate in a written report and a public presentation.
*Requirements: 3 Free Electives 12 hours, 3 MA Electives 12 hours, 5 Tech Electives 20 hours, 1 Domain Elective 4 hours
SUMMARY OF GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS | ||||
HSS | 36 hours | |||
CLSK | CLSK 100 | 1 hour | ||
Math Core | MA 111, 112, 113, 200, 211, 212, 332, 371 or 373, 381, and 223 or 382 | 40 hours | ||
Biomath Core | Four BMTH courses numbered 300 or above | 16 hours | ||
Basic Science | BIO 110, 130, 120 or 210, 220, and 230 CHEM 111, 113 PH 111, 112 one of CHEM 251 or PH 113 |
40 hours | ||
Computer Science | CSSE 120 | 4 hours | ||
Capstone Experience | BMTH 496, 497, 498 | 8 hours | ||
Domain Elective | Any of the following, with no course substitutions permitted. BIO 330 Evolutionary Biology 4R-0L-4C W Prereq. BIO 130 CHEM 330 Biochemistry I 4R-0L-4C W Prereq. CHEM 252 CSSE 304 Programming Language Concepts 4R-0L-4C W Prereq. CSSE 230 and MA 275 MA 366 Functions of a Real Variable 4R-0L-4C W Prereq. MA 275 and MA 113 |
4 hours | ||
Math Electives | Any mathematics course numbered 300 or above, or MA 275 | 12 Hours | ||
Technical Electives |
Courses numbered 200 or above in the physical sciences, life sciences, computer science, or engineering. Coursework in mathematics and biomathematics is not allowed. |
20 Hours | ||
Free Electives | 12 Hours | |||
Total | 193 hours |
SECOND MAJOR IN BIOMATHEMATICS
The second major in biomathematics is open to all majors with the following requirements and restrictions. Eligibility and limitations
- The MA/BMTH double major must be seperated by at least 24 hours.
REQUIREMENTS (72 HOURS) | ||||
Math Core | MA 211. 332, 371 or 373, 381, and 223 or 382 | 20 hours | ||
Biomath Core | any four BMTH courses numbered 300 or above | 16 hours | ||
Math Electives | 12 hours | |||
Biology | BIO 110 and three courses from different categories described below BIO 130 BIO 120 or 210 BIO 205 or 230 BIO 220 |
16 hours | ||
Senior Capstone Experience | BMTH 496, 497, 498 | 8 hours |
MINOR IN BIOMATHEMATICS
A minor in biomathematics is open to all students.
REQUIREMENTS (47 HOURS) | ||||
Math Core | MA 111, 112, 113, 211, 212, and 223 or 382 | 27 hours | ||
Biomath Core | any three BMTH courses numbered 300 or above | 12 hours | ||
Biology | BIO 110 and one of BIO 205, 210, 220, 230 | 8 hours |
Notes and Definitions
- The suggested four year plan is a guideline.
- Close consultation with the advisor on electives is required, especially for electives after the freshman year, or if a double major or minor is planned.
Plan of Study
NOTES
*Requirements: | |
---|---|
3 Free Electives | 12 hours |
3 MA Electives | 12 hours |
5 Tech Electives | 20 hours |
1 Domain Elective | 4 hours |