Mathematics is at the core of human civilization and is the cornerstone of all modern science and technology. The Mathematics Program at Bard has three main functions: to provide students in the program with the opportunity to study the primary areas of contemporary mathematics; to provide physical and social science majors with the necessary mathematical tools for work in their disciplines; and to introduce all students to serious and interesting mathematical ideas and their applications.

For students who choose to major in mathematics, the Bard Mathematics Program combines high academic standards with a great deal of flexibility. For example, when each senior mathematics major engages in a year-long research program for her senior project, she is not required to work on whatever interests the professor— contrast to student research at many other colleges and universities. At Bard all senior projects in mathematics are individually tailored to meet the interests of the students; indeed, the topics for senior projects are often suggested by the students themselves, with guidance from the faculty. Additionally, whereas we do have standard course requirements for the completion of the Mathematics Program, we balance these requirements with the needs and interests of each student, through Bard's moderation process. In particular, students can tailor their course of studies towards either the more pure or the more applied aspects of mathematics.

At Bard we do not force mathematics students to fit into a pre-existing mold. Students who wish to apply to graduate school in mathematics are encouraged to do so, and will leave Bard well educated; students who want to study mathematics as undergraduates, but who are not aiming for careers in mathematics, are equally welcome. Indeed, we prefer our mix of diverse student interests to a homogeneous student body. In particular, we encourage students majoring in mathematics to take advantage of the strong programs at Bard outside the sciences, particularly the arts. We have had mathematics majors who have double majored with a field outside the sciences, or who have majored in mathematics, but took many courses in one other concentrated area. Recent examples include a Math/Theatre double major, a Math/Studio Art double major, and some mathematics majors who went on to graduate school in economics. As long as high standards in mathematics are maintained, other interests are encouraged.

Bard's mathematics program gives our students an incredible level of individual attention, both in the availability of faculty members for discussion outside class, as well as the possibility of tutorials, independent study, and individualized senior projects. Because our faculty is dedicated to teaching whatever it is that our students need, a look at our catalog will reveal a well-thought out selection of courses at all levels. The faculty members at Bard want to teach, and the students want to learn; in that situation, great things can happen.

Click here for further information about the requirements for the Mathematics Program.

Click here for further information about mathematics courses at Bard.