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The Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science is brimming with activity in three vital disciplines: Mathematics; Statistics; and Computer Science. These fields can team up with almost any other discipline or interest---and also align well with many careers. Check us out!
Serendipity
Alec Noll '13 pulled this pretzel out of a bag as is. Lay people might think it looks like the letter B, but mathematicians will recognize it as the symbol for the real numbers (a number field Alec happened to be studying at the time in his Abstract Algebra course). Serendipitously, Alec was wearing a perfect t-shirt at the time. Thanks to Mike Taufen '15, a picture was snapped before Alec ate his lunch.
See Colloquium Series for info on other upcoming colloquia.
Do I have to take a math class at St. Olaf?
The short answer is no, but the longer answer is that all B.A. students must satisfy the Abstract and Quantitative Reasoning (AQR) General Education requirement (B.M. students might choose to complete a general education requirement with an AQR course). Students complete the AQR requirement either by taking a designated course in Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science or through successful completion of an equivalent course prior to arriving at St. Olaf. Get started on the Math and AQR Placement Process by clicking here.
Do I have to complete the AQR requirement at St. Olaf?
Some students have taken the right kind of courses in high school or have had other academic experiences that give them credit for the AQR. Visit our AQR Placement page to see whether or not this includes you.
How do I satisfy the AQR requirement?
There are several different courses in mathematics, statistics, and computer science that satisfy the AQR requirement. Which kind of course you should take depends on your academic strengths and interests. Click here to get started on the Math and AQR Placement Process and you'll find your way to the information you need.
I know that I want to take a math, stats, or cs course at St. Olaf, but which one should I take?
Excellent--we're glad you want to take a course in MSCS! In order to gather information and report it to your advisor we need you to go through the Math and AQR Placement Process. Click here to get started and you'll find your way to the information you need.
- Textbook Info: All sections of Calculus I and II (Math 120, 126, 128) will use Stewart's Calculus, Early Transcendentals, 7th ed. This is available in print as well as in ebook format. All sections of Linear Algebra (Math 220) will use Poole's Linear Algebra: A Modern Introduction, 3rd ed.
- AQR and Mathematics Placement Information: Please see the information to the left.
- Class of 2012: Among the 2012 graduates were 95 mathematics majors (the 2nd biggest major at the college this year), 31 statistics concentrators, and 13 computer science majors. Read about the students' post graduation plans. Congratulations to the students, parents, and faculty who helped this happen!
- Alumni: View profiles of recent alumni/ae.



