Guilford College

While many people associate mathematics with calculations and arithmetic, there is much more to math than simply crunching numbers. In its most general form, math is sometimes described as the science of patterns. Some of the patterns mathematicians explore include algorithms, sets, sequences, graphs, networks, functional relations, statistical data, and geometric and topological structures. Since the analysis and understanding of patterns is important in virtually every discipline, the ideas and methods of mathematics can be applied in almost any field. Sometimes mathematical analysis allows for the prediction of certain patterns (or at least of their likelihood). Other times, just as importantly, mathematics reveals that making a prediction with reasonable certainty is impossible.

Students who are well versed in math will be better prepared for employment and for graduate work in any field that deals with data analysis, quantitative reasoning, or logical deduction. Mathematics students will also be better able to understand recent advances in subjects where mathematical methods are routinely applied. Even in fields such as law and philosophy, where computational issues may not be emphasized, the use of logical thinking as required by mathematical proofs is a valuable skill.

Many majors at Guilford, including Business Management, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, already require mathematics courses. However, the increasing use of mathematical methods and terminology in many fields, scientific and otherwise, is a great reason to study more than just the bare minimum of mathematics. Questions about infinity, higher dimensions, the limitations of computing, and the prediction of future events are just some of the topics up for grabs.

If you are a current or prospective student who wants to know more about the different math courses Guilford has to offer, please contact any of the mathematics faculty, and we’d be happy to tell you more.