For centuries, mathematics has given its students a lifetime of intellectual excitement, deep creative satisfaction, mental acuity and agility, and appreciation of an austere and elegant beauty. More than anything else, the study of mathematics enhances the student’s power of thinking. Students majoring in Mathematics (BA) at The College of Idaho learn to think, both deeply and creatively, about a wide range of important and interesting topics and areas of mathematical inquiry.
Our Mathematics majors learn the fundamental principles of mathematical thought as they progress through the Mathematics Core. They also begin to gain an understanding of the relevance and utility of mathematics to, and interconnectedness with, other disciplines of the liberal arts and the world as a whole. This program of study is completed with choices from a broad selection of proof-based courses. The curriculum reflects the intellectual sweep of undergraduate mathematics and the applied, interdisciplinary sensibilities of the Department of Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Since much mathematical activity resembles a kind of logical problem-solving, and since this activity is such excellent mental training, mathematics is an excellent major field of study for many exciting and interesting careers. Recent graduates have found careers in medicine, finance, software development, education, various engineering fields, and have gone on to graduate study in mathematics, physics, astronomy, computer science, and engineering, among others.
The College of Idaho provided Annika Thomas ’19, who completed a dual degree in engineering, the perfect path to change her story from one of dreaming of the science behind the satellites she saw in the sky as a child, to becoming the lead designer on a cube satellite while pursuing her Ph.D. at MIT.
I chose The College of Idaho because I was really drawn to the small, tight-knit community. I grew up in a large city for most of my life, so I wanted to be in a place where I could get to know my professors and classmates personally, and where I wouldn’t feel like just another face in the crowd. The idea of being part of a supportive and closes community was really important to me, and The College of Idaho felt like the perfect fit.
B.A in Mathematics and Computer Science with minors in Art & Design and Psychology.
As a Vice President at Micron, Beth Elroy ’92 is pioneering a new role, leading a worldwide team responsible for developing and implementing EHS (Environment, Health and Safety) and Sustainability strategies. Of the proverbial blank slate with this role, Elroy said in a recent interview on Impact Podcast with John Shegerian: “It’s like building the airplane while you’re flying it, but it’s a lot of fun.”
B.A. in Mathematics. Master of Engineering with an emphasis in Environmental Engineering from Idaho State University. Vice President, Global EHS & Sustainability, Micron Technology, Inc. Idaho Board Member, Department of Environment Quality. Idaho Business Review’s 2024 Most Influential Business Leaders.
Out of the 40 liberal arts colleges I applied to in high school, The College of Idaho stood out by offering me the most generous financial package that made a four-year education possible. This support was one of the turning points in my life. I developed as an individual from leading clubs, exploring my personal talents and hobbies, connecting with people from around the world, and combining my diverse interests in art, STEM, and politics.
B.A in Computer Science and Mathematics with minors in Art & Design and Political Economy.
In my freshman year, Dr. Carolyn Dadabay reached out to me to work in her biochemistry lab and begin my research career. In her lab, I did graduate level research on sagebrush biochemistry for nearly two years, quickly learning what it takes to do research and grow my passion for it. Through faculty mentorship, I was able to receive the Goldwater Scholarship, establishing myself nationally as a student researcher ready for graduate school.
B.A. in Chemistry and Mathematics-Physics with minors in Music and Criminal Justice Studies. The College’s 3rd Goldwater Scholar.
The community of the College is truly something special. From the students to the professors and faculty, it feels like everyone around the College is so welcoming and caring about you and your well-being and success. The College also offered the ability to achieve my dream of playing collegiate athletics and studying math and physics – the best of both worlds.
B.A. in Mathematics-Physics with minors in Philosophy and Psychology
Try new things and classes - some of my favorite memories were from classes or projects that had nothing to do with my major. Ask for help - other students and my professors really helped me get over the hump when I needed it the most. Network every chance you get - add people on LinkedIn, reach out and keep relationships.
B.S. in Mathematics-Physics with minors in Latin American Studies, Music and Spanish.
Your innovative spirit has propelled you this far. What’s next? That’s for you to dream, make, live and unleash at The College of Idaho. Come see what awaits you here.