Because we feel that mathematics does not exist in a vacuum, our degree programs are designed to complement other programs at Niagara University. Students who combine a major or minor with another degree program have a distinct advantage over their peers in fields such as biology, chemistry, finance, economics, computer science, banking or insurance. We offer a number of curriculum options to match our student’s interests.
The department also offers a Statistics Minor.
In the College of Arts and Sciences, the degree programs have been designed so as to enable students to obtain a minor concentration in one of many interdisciplinary areas. Thus, for example, by prudently utilizing course requirements and/or electives, a student majoring in mathematics may obtain a minor in many other interdisciplinary areas. Generally in the B.S. degree program, the minor could be in the areas of computer science, chemistry, biology, or psychology. Generally in the B.A. degree program, the minor could be in the areas of the social sciences, humanities, business or accounting. A faculty member will work closely with each student in planning his/her program.
Work study positions are available in a Math Lab to provide tutorial service for all Niagara students.
The College of Education offers programs leading to the bachelor's degree and to New York State Teacher Certification. A program leading to provisional certification (permanent certification is awarded by the state only after completion of a master's degree and teaching experience) for grades 7-12 is offered in mathematics. At the elementary level, the elementary education program is designed to qualify students for elementary (PreK-6) provisional certification and the inclusion elementary education program is for certification in both elementary (PreK-6) and special education (PreK-12). Reciprocity agreements for teacher certification exist between New York and other states, particularly those adjacent to New York state. Students interested in teacher certification in other states or the Letter of Eligibility in Ontario should consult the Dean of Education.
Actuaries use mathematics to analyze risk in insurance, pension, and other financial situations. It takes a combination of strong analytical skills, business knowledge and understanding of human behavior to design and manage programs that control risk. The actuarial profession has consistently been rated as one of the top five jobs in the United States according to Jobs Rated Almanac.
To become an actuary, a candidate must pass a series of exams in probability, financial math, and actuarial modeling. Most actuaries begin their careers with one or more of these exams already completed, but will take many of the exams after they have been employed.
Students who are interested in being an actuary would most likely be a math major, with a minor in business or a business major, with a minor in math. We do not offer a minor in actuarial science because it would require too many courses for someone who was not a math or business major. Below are the courses recommended for students interested in Actuarial Science.
These math courses will satisfy the requirements for a minor in mathematics:
The mathematics department in consultation with the Department of Commerce has established an actuarial science minor in commerce of the following eight course units:
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