You are in the official 2003-2004 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
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Department of Mathematics


The College of Science and Mathematics
LARRY W. CUSICK, Chair
DIANA CARMICHAEL, Administrative Analyst/Specialist
Peters Business Building
(559) 278-2992
http://www.fresnostate.edu/math/
M.A. in Mathematics
Option: Teaching
Minor in Mathematics
Single Subject Teaching Credential
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Faculty
Larry W. Cusick, Chair
Ernesto Franco, Graduate Coordinator
Undergraduate Advisers: All full-time faculty
Credential Advisers: Agnes Tuska and T. Rajee Amarasinghe, Zaur Berkaliev
Robert F. Arnold, Katherine Byler, Moses E. Cohen, Della C. Duncan, Michael J. Fisher, Noal C. Harbertson, Harold B. Haslam, Merrilee K. Helmers, Rudolph M. Najar, Hussain Sayid Nur, Dylan Retsek, Hugo S. Sun, Peter Tannenbaum, Ronald L. Wagoner, Norman T. Woo, Ke Wu
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The Department
Mathematics and related subjects play important dual roles in our culture.
On the one hand, mathematics is a study in its own right; on the other hand,
it is an indispensable tool for expressing and understanding ideas in the
sciences, engineering, and an increasing number of other fields. As a consequence,
employment opportunities for mathematicians have been expanding in recent
years. The courses offered by the department are designed to develop skills
in and an appreciation and understanding of both roles.
Because there are so many different areas in which a trained mathematician
can find employment or continue studies, the department offers a large number
of electives within the mathematics major. By selecting appropriate courses,
students have considerable flexibility to accommodate their individual interests.
Students should consult with a department adviser for specific recommendations
as to which electives are suited to their career paths.
Electives in applied mathematics prepare students to assume positions in
technical industries or government employment, or to continue advanced studies
in the applied area.
Electives in pre-college teaching in mathematics provide students with the
necessary background for obtaining a California Secondary Teaching Credential
in mathematics. In order to complete the credential requirements, a fifth
year of education courses, classroom observation, and practice teaching
is needed. At the present time, there is an increasing demand for well-trained
people in this area.
Electives in pure mathematics prepare students for the pursuit of graduate
studies leading to advanced degrees and employment at the college or university
level, or research in industries.
Electives in statistics and probability provide a foundation for students
planning to work as statisticians for industry or government agencies. They
also can enhance employment opportunities in the bioscience and health-related
fields. Statistics courses (in addition to MATH 75, 76, and 77) are essential
for the first two Actuarial Examinations offered by the Society of Actuaries.
