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College of Arts & Sciences

Mathematics Degree Program

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Why pursue a mathematics degree at North Central College?

Thinking of pursuing a mathematics degree? With our mathematics degree program, you’ll receive all the help, advice and personal attention you need, thanks to our accessible professors and small classes. North Central’s math faculty members are committed to involving you in their research projects, so you’ll also get valuable firsthand experiences. Our pure mathematics major is renowned for preparing high school and middle school math teachers and for maintaining an extensive network of school contacts. Others with their mathematics degree go on to work in various fields in industry and technology, or to graduate school to prepare for a career in higher education, teaching, and research. North Central College mathematics faculty have wide-ranging interests and make math majors available in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and actuarial sciences. We're committed to making sure that all math major students in each of our classes are successful in learning mathematics they need to know for their chosen careers. 

With our mathematics courses, you can also:

  • Collaborate with your professors or other mathematician faculty on research projects that enable critical thinking and explore topics like knot theory or mathematical concepts that model disease transmission and share your findings at North Central College’s Rall Symposium.
  • Attend local, regional and national academic conferences.
  • Participate in campus activities like Math Club and the Pi Day Celebration with alumni.
  • Enroll in a problem-solving seminar that prepares you for competitions like the Putnam Exam.
  • Obtain extra help from a peer tutor—or become one yourself.
  • Join the mathematics honor society Pi Mu Epsilon.

More Department information

Register for the American Mathematics Contest (AMC)

Mathematics, B.S.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Mathematics and Actuarial Science.

  • MATH 151 - Calculus I

    MATH 151 - Calculus I

    4.00 credit hours

    An exploration of the fundamental concepts of single-variable calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 152 - Calculus II

    MATH 152 - Calculus II

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of single-variable calculus with emphasis on advanced integration techniques and applications, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and infinite series.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 253 - Calculus III

    MATH 253 - Calculus III

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of calculus with an emphasis on vectors, vector-valued and multiple-variable functions, partial derivatives, line and multiple integrals, vector analysis, Green's, divergence and Stokes' theorems.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 280 - The Nature of Proof in Mathematics

    MATH 280 - The Nature of Proof in Mathematics

    4.00 credit hours

    A study of the nature of proof in mathematics. Specific proof techniques are taught within the context of number theory, set theory, functions, and cardinality.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 300 - Linear Algebra

    MATH 300 - Linear Algebra

    4.00 credit hours

    Vector spaces, linear transformations, inner products, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, Gram-Schmidt process and orthogonal transformations. Students may not receive credit for MATH 300 and MATH 255.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    4.00 credit hours

    Algebra of the complex numbers, geometry and transformations of the complex plane, analytic functions, Cauchy theory of integration, power series and residue theory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 390 - Research Methods

    MATH 390 - Research Methods

    2.00 credit hours

    An intensive seminar intended to introduce research methods in mathematics, develop processes for approaching and solving non-routine problems, and exploring advanced written and oral presentation of solutions.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 421 - Abstract Algebra I

    MATH 421 - Abstract Algebra I

    4.00 credit hours

    Introduction to the theory of rings, fields and groups. Topics include modular arithmetic, polynomial rings, factorization and tests for irreducibility, ideals, quotient rings, morphisms and subgroups.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 461 - Real Analysis I

    MATH 461 - Real Analysis I

    4.00 credit hours

    A study of sets, functions, properties and elementary topology of the real number system, sequences, series, continuity, differentiation and integration.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 490 - Seminar in Advanced Mathematics

    MATH 490 - Seminar in Advanced Mathematics

    2.00 credit hours

    A critical evaluation, including modern-day and historical applications, of advanced topics not included in other mathematics courses. Emphasis is placed on reflecting upon and further developing each student's philosophical view of mathematics as a discipline.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CSCE 160 - Introduction to Computer Programming

    CSCE 160 - Introduction to Computer Programming

    4.00 credit hours

    An introduction to computer science and programming, emphasizing the development of algorithms and problem solving skills using both procedural and object-oriented approaches. Topics include data types; I/O; arithmetic, relational and logical operators; control structures; functions; simple data structures; different computing environments such as the Linux operating system are also explored. Integrated laboratory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CSCE 210 - Data Structures

    CSCE 210 - Data Structures

    4.00 credit hours

    Elementary data structures and algorithms. Topics include the design, implementation, application and variations of the following: linked lists, stacks and queues, different types of trees, searching and sorting algorithms, graphs, and introduction to analysis of algorithms. Extensive programming required. Integrated laboratory.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

  • MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides a calculus-based introduction to probability and the beginning of statistical inference. Topics included: Descriptive statistics, elements of probability theory, random variables, central limit theorem, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing and simple linear regression.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 315 - Ordinary Differential Equations

    MATH 315 - Ordinary Differential Equations

    4.00 credit hours

    First and second order differential equations; algebraic, numerical and graphical solutions; series solutions; Laplace transforms; applications. Students may not receive credit for MATH 315 and MATH 255.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 340 - Probability

    MATH 340 - Probability

    4.00 credit hours

    Basic laws of probability, discrete and continuous distributions of random variables, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and transformations, random variables with multivariate probability distributions.

    Schedule Of Classes

Two of the following:

  • MATH 422 - Abstract Algebra II

    MATH 422 - Abstract Algebra II

    4.00 credit hours

    Advanced theory of rings, fields and groups, including symmetric and alternating groups, structure theorems for finite abelian groups, vector spaces, extension fields, finite fields and Galois theory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 462 - Real Analysis II

    MATH 462 - Real Analysis II

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of the topics from MATH 461 including sequences and series of functions, Riemann and Lebesgue integration, elementary measure theory, and an introduction to basic concepts in functional analysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 470 - Topology

    MATH 470 - Topology

    4.00 credit hours

    Set theory, metric spaces, general topological spaces, continuous functions, connectedness, compactness, separation axioms and metrization.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

Computer Science

A minor in Computer Science.

Physics

  • PHYS 161 - Physics I: Mechanics and Heat

    PHYS 161 - Physics I: Mechanics and Heat

    4.00 credit hours

    Newton's Laws of motion, energy conservation, rotational motion, thermodynamics. Laboratory required, includes experimental physics and an introduction to computational modeling. Credit may be earned for only one of PHYS 131 and PHYS 161.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • PHYS 162 - Physics II: Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics

    PHYS 162 - Physics II: Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics

    4.00 credit hours

    Oscillations, waves, electricity, magnetism, optics. Laboratory required, includes experimental physics and computational modeling. Credit may be earned for only one of PHYS 132 and PHYS 162.

    Schedule Of Classes

Chemistry

  • CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I

    CHEM 121 - General Chemistry I

    4.00 credit hours

    A discussion of chemical principles through examples from the chemistry of carbon compounds and the molecules found in living systems. Major topics include atomic and electronic structure, ions, molecules, Lewis structures, VSEPR, hybridization, intermolecular forces, chromatography, equilibria, kinetics, stereochemistry and polymer chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II

    CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II

    4.00 credit hours

    An introduction to chemical principles within the context of the environmental issues of fuel and energy, water treatment and acid rain. Major chemical topics include gas laws, aqueous reactions and solubility, equilibria, acid/base chemistry, buffers, thermochemistry, redox, electrochemistry and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory required.

    Schedule Of Classes

Mathematics, B.A.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Mathematics and Actuarial Science.

  • MATH 151 - Calculus I

    MATH 151 - Calculus I

    4.00 credit hours

    An exploration of the fundamental concepts of single-variable calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 152 - Calculus II

    MATH 152 - Calculus II

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of single-variable calculus with emphasis on advanced integration techniques and applications, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and infinite series.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 253 - Calculus III

    MATH 253 - Calculus III

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of calculus with an emphasis on vectors, vector-valued and multiple-variable functions, partial derivatives, line and multiple integrals, vector analysis, Green's, divergence and Stokes' theorems.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 280 - The Nature of Proof in Mathematics

    MATH 280 - The Nature of Proof in Mathematics

    4.00 credit hours

    A study of the nature of proof in mathematics. Specific proof techniques are taught within the context of number theory, set theory, functions, and cardinality.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 300 - Linear Algebra

    MATH 300 - Linear Algebra

    4.00 credit hours

    Vector spaces, linear transformations, inner products, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, Gram-Schmidt process and orthogonal transformations. Students may not receive credit for MATH 300 and MATH 255.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 310 - History of Mathematics

    MATH 310 - History of Mathematics

    4.00 credit hours

    A survey of the evolution of mathematical ideas and techniques, examining how historical, philosophical and cultural settings influenced its development. Emphasis on problem solving methodologies and the diversity of mathematicians contributing to the field.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 390 - Research Methods

    MATH 390 - Research Methods

    2.00 credit hours

    An intensive seminar intended to introduce research methods in mathematics, develop processes for approaching and solving non-routine problems, and exploring advanced written and oral presentation of solutions.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 421 - Abstract Algebra I

    MATH 421 - Abstract Algebra I

    4.00 credit hours

    Introduction to the theory of rings, fields and groups. Topics include modular arithmetic, polynomial rings, factorization and tests for irreducibility, ideals, quotient rings, morphisms and subgroups.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 461 - Real Analysis I

    MATH 461 - Real Analysis I

    4.00 credit hours

    A study of sets, functions, properties and elementary topology of the real number system, sequences, series, continuity, differentiation and integration.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 490 - Seminar in Advanced Mathematics

    MATH 490 - Seminar in Advanced Mathematics

    2.00 credit hours

    A critical evaluation, including modern-day and historical applications, of advanced topics not included in other mathematics courses. Emphasis is placed on reflecting upon and further developing each student's philosophical view of mathematics as a discipline.

    Schedule Of Classes

Two of the following:

  • MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides a calculus-based introduction to probability and the beginning of statistical inference. Topics included: Descriptive statistics, elements of probability theory, random variables, central limit theorem, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing and simple linear regression.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 305 - College Geometry

    MATH 305 - College Geometry

    4.00 credit hours

    Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry in two and three dimensions via the axiomatic approach. Other topics include transformations, isometries and symmetries of the plane.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 315 - Ordinary Differential Equations

    MATH 315 - Ordinary Differential Equations

    4.00 credit hours

    First and second order differential equations; algebraic, numerical and graphical solutions; series solutions; Laplace transforms; applications. Students may not receive credit for MATH 315 and MATH 255.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    4.00 credit hours

    Algebra of the complex numbers, geometry and transformations of the complex plane, analytic functions, Cauchy theory of integration, power series and residue theory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 340 - Probability

    MATH 340 - Probability

    4.00 credit hours

    Basic laws of probability, discrete and continuous distributions of random variables, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and transformations, random variables with multivariate probability distributions.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 422 - Abstract Algebra II

    MATH 422 - Abstract Algebra II

    4.00 credit hours

    Advanced theory of rings, fields and groups, including symmetric and alternating groups, structure theorems for finite abelian groups, vector spaces, extension fields, finite fields and Galois theory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 462 - Real Analysis II

    MATH 462 - Real Analysis II

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of the topics from MATH 461 including sequences and series of functions, Riemann and Lebesgue integration, elementary measure theory, and an introduction to basic concepts in functional analysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 470 - Topology

    MATH 470 - Topology

    4.00 credit hours

    Set theory, metric spaces, general topological spaces, continuous functions, connectedness, compactness, separation axioms and metrization.

    Schedule Of Classes

    • *Cannot take both MATH 260 and MATH 340.

Note:

Students seeking teaching licensure must also complete the Secondary Education major requirements as well as the following courses:

  • MATH 305 - College Geometry 
  • MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Mathematics Minor

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Mathematics and Actuarial Science.

A minimum of 24 credit hours, including:

  • MATH 151 - Calculus I

    MATH 151 - Calculus I

    4.00 credit hours

    An exploration of the fundamental concepts of single-variable calculus including limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 152 - Calculus II

    MATH 152 - Calculus II

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of single-variable calculus with emphasis on advanced integration techniques and applications, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and infinite series.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 253 - Calculus III

    MATH 253 - Calculus III

    4.00 credit hours

    A continuation of calculus with an emphasis on vectors, vector-valued and multiple-variable functions, partial derivatives, line and multiple integrals, vector analysis, Green's, divergence and Stokes' theorems.

    Schedule Of Classes

Elective Options

One of the preapproved options listed below. The set of courses should be cohesive with respect to each other and should be based on the student's area of applied study. Other options may be available to students with departmental approval. The Mathematics Department must be consulted in the planning process.

Option A

  • MATH 265 - The Theory of Interest

    MATH 265 - The Theory of Interest

    4.00 credit hours

    Topics in the mathematics of finance that are required for the FM (Financial Mathematics) Exam in actuarial science. Includes the study of Microsoft Excel macros.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 340 - Probability

    MATH 340 - Probability

    4.00 credit hours

    Basic laws of probability, discrete and continuous distributions of random variables, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and transformations, random variables with multivariate probability distributions.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

  • MATH 350 - Data Analytics

    MATH 350 - Data Analytics

    4.00 credit hours

    An overview of the field of statistical learning. Survey of techniques for predictive analytics including model selection and validation methods, linear and non-linear models and supervised and unsupervised learning. Implementation of all techniques will employ appropriate software.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 410 - Models for Financial Economics

    MATH 410 - Models for Financial Economics

    4.00 credit hours

    Theoretical basis of financial models and the application of those models to insurance and other financial risks.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • ECON 365 - Econometrics

    ECON 365 - Econometrics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides exposure to the estimation and testing of economic models using statistical methods and appropriate empirical data. Emphasis is placed on model construction and the use of multiple linear regression for interpretation, analysis and forecasting.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • ECON 355 - Mathematical Economics

    ECON 355 - Mathematical Economics

    4.00 credit hours

    Focus on the application of mathematics to the theoretical aspects of economic analysis. Topics may include equilibrium analysis, comparative statics, optimization problems and dynamic analysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

Option B

  • MATH 255 - Linear Algebra and Differential Equation

    MATH 255 - Linear Algebra and Differential Equation

    4.00 credit hours

    First and second order differential equations, systems of differential equations, matrix and vector algebra, systems of linear equations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Students may not receive credit for both MATH 255 and either MATH 300 or MATH 315.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

  • MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides a calculus-based introduction to probability and the beginning of statistical inference. Topics included: Descriptive statistics, elements of probability theory, random variables, central limit theorem, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing and simple linear regression.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    4.00 credit hours

    Algebra of the complex numbers, geometry and transformations of the complex plane, analytic functions, Cauchy theory of integration, power series and residue theory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 340 - Probability

    MATH 340 - Probability

    4.00 credit hours

    Basic laws of probability, discrete and continuous distributions of random variables, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and transformations, random variables with multivariate probability distributions.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 350 - Data Analytics

    MATH 350 - Data Analytics

    4.00 credit hours

    An overview of the field of statistical learning. Survey of techniques for predictive analytics including model selection and validation methods, linear and non-linear models and supervised and unsupervised learning. Implementation of all techniques will employ appropriate software.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

  • ECON 355 - Mathematical Economics

    ECON 355 - Mathematical Economics

    4.00 credit hours

    Focus on the application of mathematics to the theoretical aspects of economic analysis. Topics may include equilibrium analysis, comparative statics, optimization problems and dynamic analysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • ECON 365 - Econometrics

    ECON 365 - Econometrics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides exposure to the estimation and testing of economic models using statistical methods and appropriate empirical data. Emphasis is placed on model construction and the use of multiple linear regression for interpretation, analysis and forecasting.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • PHYS 440 - Quantum Mechanics

    PHYS 440 - Quantum Mechanics

    4.00 credit hours

    The physical interpretation and mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics. Schrodinger equation, one-dimensional and three-dimensional potentials, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom, operator methods, matrix mechanics, Dirac notation and approximation methods.

    Schedule Of Classes

Option C

  • MATH 300 - Linear Algebra

    MATH 300 - Linear Algebra

    4.00 credit hours

    Vector spaces, linear transformations, inner products, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, Gram-Schmidt process and orthogonal transformations. Students may not receive credit for MATH 300 and MATH 255.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

  • MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    MATH 260 - Introduction to Mathematical Statistics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides a calculus-based introduction to probability and the beginning of statistical inference. Topics included: Descriptive statistics, elements of probability theory, random variables, central limit theorem, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing and simple linear regression.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    MATH 320 - Complex Variables

    4.00 credit hours

    Algebra of the complex numbers, geometry and transformations of the complex plane, analytic functions, Cauchy theory of integration, power series and residue theory.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 340 - Probability

    MATH 340 - Probability

    4.00 credit hours

    Basic laws of probability, discrete and continuous distributions of random variables, mathematical expectation, moment generating functions and transformations, random variables with multivariate probability distributions.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • MATH 350 - Data Analytics

    MATH 350 - Data Analytics

    4.00 credit hours

    An overview of the field of statistical learning. Survey of techniques for predictive analytics including model selection and validation methods, linear and non-linear models and supervised and unsupervised learning. Implementation of all techniques will employ appropriate software.

    Schedule Of Classes

One of the following:

  • ECON 355 - Mathematical Economics

    ECON 355 - Mathematical Economics

    4.00 credit hours

    Focus on the application of mathematics to the theoretical aspects of economic analysis. Topics may include equilibrium analysis, comparative statics, optimization problems and dynamic analysis.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • ECON 365 - Econometrics

    ECON 365 - Econometrics

    4.00 credit hours

    This course provides exposure to the estimation and testing of economic models using statistical methods and appropriate empirical data. Emphasis is placed on model construction and the use of multiple linear regression for interpretation, analysis and forecasting.

    Schedule Of Classes

  • PHYS 440 - Quantum Mechanics

    PHYS 440 - Quantum Mechanics

    4.00 credit hours

    The physical interpretation and mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics. Schrodinger equation, one-dimensional and three-dimensional potentials, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom, operator methods, matrix mechanics, Dirac notation and approximation methods.

    Schedule Of Classes

Option D

Mathematics Internships and Jobs

A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.

Graduate Schools

Recent graduates in mathematics have been accepted to graduate programs at:

  • University of Nebraska
  • University of Notre Dame
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Oregon
  • Purdue University
  • University of Michigan
  • University of Illinois at Chicago
  • University of Arizona
  • University of Tennessee
  • Baylor University
  • University of Missouri
  • St. Louis University
  • Northern Illinois University
  • University of Colorado Denver
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Rosalind Franklin University
  • University of Texas
  • University of Kansas
  • Indiana University
  • Johns Hopkins University

Careers

Math majors frequently find teaching positions in districts within a 30-mile radius of North Central, including:

  • Aurora School Districts
  • Chicago Public Schools
  • East Aurora School District 131
  • Naperville School District 203
  • Indian Prairie School District 204
  • Plainfield School District 202

Recent graduates in mathematics also include:

  • Algorithm analyst
  • Software engineer
  • Computer scientist
  • Financial consultant
  • Commercial loan officer
  • Statistician
  • Biostatistician
  • Environmental mathematician
  • Systems engineer
  • Budget analyst
  • Product analyst
  • Marketing specialist

Companies that have hired alumni:

  • Google
  • Bank of America
  • Trans Union Credit
  • The College Board
  • Allstate
  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield

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