University News
WIU Adds Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Mathematics
July 10, 2006
MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois UniversityÂ’s College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) will offer a post-baccalaureate certificate program in applied mathematics beginning Fall 2006, according to Inessa Levi, CAS dean. The Illinois Board of Higher Education approved the new certificate program in May.
“The certificate in applied mathematics will provide new educational opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing a focused area of graduate studies to enhance their professional skills, credentials and their academic knowledge beyond the undergraduate degree,” Levi said.
The program, which consists of six courses, will allow students to gain expertise in a broad range of fields using applied mathematics applications such as industry, science, finance, computer science, economic, environmental studies and more, Levi added.
“This is a unique and warranted program in Illinois; no other college or university offers a curriculum similar to our certificate in applied mathematics,” said Iraj Kalantari, mathematics chair. “We have created a program with integrity, uniqueness and practicality for our students.”
Four core courses focus on practical applications of mathematics, without an overriding emphasis on deep pursuit of the theory behind them, putting to use the knowledge that a student has learned in upper division courses and exploring new tools. This ensures that participants will have a working knowledge of mathematics that can be applied to real-life problems, Kalantari explained.
Two other courses are in a focus area of the studentÂ’s choosing, as long as they encompass mathematics. Students may opt to complete an internship or a significant project in mathematics in place of the two courses.
Students are required to hold the equivalent of a bachelorÂ’s degree in mathematics, statistics or a related area for enrollment into the certificate program.
“This program offers a valuable educational option for those individuals who either do not desire to pursue a master’s degree at the beginning, or those who seek to complement their bachelor’s degree in an area close to mathematics,” Levi said.
For more information, contact WesternÂ’s mathematics department at 309/298-1054.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing
Connect with us: