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Mathematics and Statistics

Our department features an effective learning environment with close interactions between students and our knowledgeable faculty in addition to opportunities for undergraduate research and internships.  Our students have options of a Mathematics major as well as concentrations within Actuarial Science, Data Science, Mathematics Education, or Statistics that prepare them for a variety of career possibilities or for graduate study in mathematics. 

Department of Mathematics & Statistics

Mission Statement

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics is committed to delivering excellent instruction in a student-centered environment to promote life-long learning and a deep understanding of theoretical and applied mathematics.  Our goal is to provide students with a foundational knowledge that prepares them for a wide range of mathematics-based careers or graduate programs.

Vision Statement

We will develop our students’ abstract and logical thinking, oral and written communication skills, and ability to apply quantitative techniques to solve real world problems.  This goal will be achieved through transformative experiences inside and outside of the classroom.

 

Degrees Offered

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics may choose from five concentrations: Mathematics, Mathematics Education, Statistics, Actuarial Science, and Data Science.  We also have three minors in Mathematics, Actuarial Science, and Applied Statistics

For more information on our B.S. Mathematics: Programs of Study
 

We offer several master's degree programs: both an M.S. and PSM degrees in Predictive Analytics and Mathematical Finance, and an M.S. in Mathematics Instruction

The study of mathematics enhances critical thinking skills and provides an excellent background for a career in most any field, including science, engineering, education, law, and medicine. Let the Mathematics faculty at Austin Peay help you prepare for the career of your choice!

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/APSUmath/

 

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Malori Hales
Alumni (2018), Data Analyst at Nissan

I can honestly say that studying mathematics has been such a wonderful and fulfilling experience so far. My professors and my peers in the Math department have made a huge impact on my success during my time at APSU.
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Sara Grey
Alumni (2020), Current Graduate Student, Math Teacher at Rossview High School

Before transferring to APSU I had so much doubt in my ability to pursue a degree in Math. But everyone in this department has helped me build my confidence and made me feel like I'm on the right path! I know my academic success would not be possible without this encouraging community of professors and peers.
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Zane Celmer
Alumni (2019), Software Engineer

When I started at APSU, I was not a mathematics major. After spending some time withsome of the faculty and realizing I had a passion for mathematics, I decided to pursueit. The professors here genuinelycare about your success, and are willing to push you beyond the coursework if you have the desire to learn more.
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Kindyl King
Alumni (2018), Ph.D. Student at Purdue University

The research experience I have gained at APSU could not be matched by any other university. Austin Peay provided me multiple opportunities to do interesting research, to present my work at conferences, and to work with very knowledgeable professors to publish papers.
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Emily Teti
Alumni (2017), Postdoctoral Researcher at Los Alamos National Laboratory

I have been able to accomplish things at APSU that wouldn't have been possible without the overwhelming support of the math department, between the funding to study abroad and present research at conferences, writing countless letters of recommendation, and simply being a source of constant encouragement.
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Angeline Rinehart
Alumni (2020), Data Scientist at Ascension

I've been pushed out of my comfort zone and accomplished things I didn't previously think I could do through the constant support and encouragement from my professors and fellow students while here at APSU. I am confident that the knowledge and skills that I've acquired is preparing me for the next step of going to graduate school.
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Isamar Rachal
Alumni (2019), Graduate Student, Math Teacher at Springfield High School

The experience I’ve had with the faculty members of Austin Peay’s math department has been phenomenal. Everyone I’ve encountered has been helpful and encouraging throughout my journey. They are part of the reason for my success and I’m proud to be part of such an amazing institution.

Student Spotlight

 
Madisson Russell
2022 Drane Award Recipient


Madisson Award

Madisson Russell recently completed her degree in Statistics after earning recognition for her excellent accomplishments.  Most notably, Madisson earned the 2022 Drane Award, which is given to the university's top member of the graduating class based on character, scholarship, and leadership. Over the past two years, Madisson has conducted statistical research with Dr. Ramajit Sahi related to wildfires that has earned her the Dr. Nell Rayburn Award for High Impact Practices, an award for her poster presentation at the Innovation Experience, and resulted in her presenting at the MAA Southeast Section Conference in Georgia. Madisson's success is leading her to a Masters program in Agriculture Economics at McGill University in Montreal this fall.

 


 

What Will I Learn?

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics consists of either the Mathematics major or four different concentrations: Mathematics Education, Statistics, Actuarial Science, and Data Science.  See below for the core class requirements for the Mathematics major, which are required classes for all concentrations, or go to our Majors and Concentrations page for more information on further requirements for each concentration.

MATH 1910 - Calculus I 4
MATH 1920 - Calculus II 4
MATH 2110 - Calculus III 4
MATH 3010 - Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning 3
MATH 3450 - Linear Algebra 3
MATH 4240 - Introduction to Probability 3
MATH 4450 - Introduction to Mathematical Modeling 3
MATH 4810 - Senior Seminar 1
  25 hours

What Do Math Majors Do After Graduation?

Mathematics and Statistics majors go on to pursue many different career paths:

  • Actuary
  • Computer Programmer
  • Engineer
  • Financial Analyst
  • Fraud Investigator
  • Government Statistician
  • High School or Middle School Math Teacher
  • Insurance Risk Manager
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Math Education Researcher
  • Math Professor at a University or Community College
  • NSA Intelligence Officer
  • Operations Analyst
  • Software Engineer
Where have APSU alumni gone?
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Meet Emily Teti

Emily Teti completed her bachelor's degree at APSU in 2017 with an accomplished record that included participating in an REU at Virginia Tech, completing a summer abroad program in Budapest, and earning the Drane Award as the top graduating senior at APSU.  Emily is now Dr. Teti after recently completing her Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology at Florida Atlantic University, where she has studied machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Matt Watkins
Meet Matt Watkins

Matt Watkins graduated in 2016 after being selected for the President Research Scholars Program, which allowed him to blend his math major and art minor through the study of Knot Theory.  He was able to present his work at the Joint Math Meetings in Atlanta.  Now Matt has enrolled in APSU's M.S. program to further his studies in Mathematical Finance.

Garwood
Meet John Garwood

John Garwood completed his B.S. in Mathematics in 2015 with a concentration in Mathematics Education.  As an undergraduate, he published research in the Electronic Journal of Differential Equation and presented at an MAA conference in Portland, Oregon.  After being awarded an Eriksson Fellowship, John earned a M.A. in Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in secondary Mathematics in May 2017.  He now teaches at high school mathematics in Apex, North Carolina.