Mathematics

www.linnbenton.edu/math

The LBCC Mathematics Department offers courses that lead students toward their goals in the college’s transfer programs, career and technical programs, and the Department also offers a variety of developmental courses aimed at students preparing for the college-level math courses required in most degree programs (usually either MTH 105 or MTH 111).

The Mathematics Department offers a two-year Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in mathematics designed for students who plan to transfer to Oregon State University to complete a baccalaureate degree in mathematics. This program provides those students with a solid foundation in mathematics and physics. Students who enter the program with a strong high school mathematics and science background can expect to complete the degree in two years. Students who must take pre-calculus mathematics courses should expect to spend more than two years in the program.

Many students combine mathematics with another discipline in a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year school. Students completing the Associate of Science with an emphasis in Mathematics at LBCC need an additional 45 hours of mathematics at Oregon State University, together with university core requirements, to earn the Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics.

There are a variety of employment opportunities for mathematicians in government, industry, and academia. Most mathematicians work in either applied mathematics or in theoretical mathematics. Applied mathematicians spend their time solving problems in science, engineering, computer science, economics, and elsewhere using a variety of mathematical tools. Theoretical mathematicians study and test new mathematical ideas and theories through research.

A popular branch of mathematics, statistics, is a field where professionals work with large data sets to look for patterns that can benefit society or industry. Actuarial science is another field of study in which mathematicians and statisticians study probability and risk assessment for government and industry.

For students who are interested in studying mathematics, a baccalaureate degree is recommended, as well as further study in graduate school in mathematics.

Program Requirements

High school students preparing for entry into the associate degree program are urged to take chemistry, physics and all the mathematics courses available at their schools.

Students should start with WR 121 and MTH 251 when entering this program.

Facilities

The Mathematics Department operates two computer classrooms. The department also participates in the operation of the Learning Centers and Math Labs at the Albany campus and each of the satellite campuses. Together, these facilities offer individualized assistance, tutoring, testing, and resource materials.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the Associate of Science with an emphasis in Mathematics will:

• Use mathematics to solve problems in related disciplines or real life applications.
• Effectively communicate mathematics language appropriate to the audience.