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Kansas Wesleyan University

A background in mathematics and physics is required in nearly all science and engineering fields. The Department of Mathematics and Physics at Kansas Wesleyan University is able to provide the solid understanding of mathematics and physics necessary for pursuing further education at the graduate level or applying mathematics and physics principles in a career-launching job.

KWU also offers a dual degree (3+2) engineering program with Washington University in St. Louis.

To meet the faculty of the Mathematics and Physics program, click here!

Mathematics & Physics FAQ

Why study Mathematics and Physics at KWU?

Mathematics gives you powerful tools for communication, comprehension and change. Physics teaches the fundamental laws of the natural world, develops your passion for knowledge and innovation, and helps you to discover how to apply what you are learning.

The 3+2 Engineering Dual Degree Program allows students to earn a liberal arts degree from Kansas Wesleyan University and an engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis.

What can I do with a degree in Mathematics?

Mathematics graduates end up in a variety of careers, becoming project managers, customer account managers, actuaries and math teachers. Others go on to graduate programs as diverse as chemical engineering, business administration, computer science and mathematics. Mathematics is about logical analysis, deduction and calculation within patterns and structures.

With a mathematics degree, you should be able to turn your hand to finance, statistics, engineering, computers, teaching or accountancy with a success not possible to other graduates.

What can I do with a degree in Physics?

Physics graduates have skills that are in high demand in diverse sectors. These include skills relating to numeracy, problem-solving, data analysis and the communication of complex ideas, as well as a wider understanding of how the world works, on a scientific and human level. This highly transferable and valued skillset also means physics graduates earn more!

About the Mathematics Program

Major requirements

Core Requirements – 42 Credit Hours

All mathematics majors are required to complete the following courses:

  • MATH 145 Calculus I
  • MATH 225 Linear Algebra
  • MATH 243 Discrete Mathematics
  • MATH 245 Calculus II
  • MATH 246 Calculus III
  • MATH 310 Elementary Differential Equations
  • MATH 323 Intro to Mathematical Statistics
  • MATH 327 Modern Applied Algebra
  • MATH 425 Real Analysis
  • COMP 131 Foundations of Computer Systems OR COMP 232 Programming in C++

Mathematics Electives

  • Elective course numbered 300 or above
  • Elective course numbered 300 or above

Minor requirements

Core Requirements – 18-19 credit hours

The student must complete all of the following:

  • 16 credit hours of Mathematics, in course levels 140 and above
  • One course in Computer Science

About the Physics Program

More information is available at the Physics program link above.

Major requirements

Core Requirements

The student must take all of the following course:

  • CHEM 123 General Chemistry I
  • CHEM 124 General Chemistry II
  • MATH 145 Calculus I
  • MATH 245 Calculus II
  • MATH 246 Calculus III
  • MATH 310 Elementary Differential Equations
  • PHYS 165 Data Science
  • PHYS 221 General Physics I
  • PHYS 222 General Physics II
  • PHYS 227 Modern Physics
  • PHYS 250 Physics Seminar
  • PHYS 265 Scientific Programming
  • PHYS 321 Classical Mechanics
  • PHYS 340 Advanced Physics Laboratory I
  • PHYS 440 Advanced Physics Laboratory II
  • PHYS 486 Physics Capstone I
  • PHYS 496 Physics Capstone Project

Traditional Physics Concentration Requirements:

The Traditional Physics Concentration is a comprehensive study of physics. It is ideal for students who want an in-depth understanding of the field of physics and students who are planning to attend physics graduate programs. In addition to the core courses, student must take all of the following course:

  • PHYS 260 Circuit Analysis & Electronics
  • PHYS 325 Thermodynamics
  • PHYS 335 Electromagnetic Theory
  • PHYS 425 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
  • Select two of the following recommended courses or other upper division physics courses (courses must be at a 300 or 400 level).
  • PHYS 323 Optics
  • PHYS 485 Special Topics

Hands-On Learning

Curious about pursuing a major in math or physics but unsure where it might lead? Physics students learn how the natural world works, and the math and problem-solving skills they pick up are great for the job market. Physics majors teach, work on Wall Street, and serve in the military. They also perform well on the admission tests for law and medical schools.

Studying mathematics is akin to learning a language, actively engaging the mind and exploring by doing math. Our world runs on the basis of numbers as words, and those who are proficient in speaking the language of numbers can find great opportunities for entry-level positions and successful careers beyond. Math majors become fluent in the language of numbers and distilling complex, real-world problems into mathematical equations, concepts, and principles that can be solved.

 

Facilities

The recently remodeled Creager Physics Lab and N. Paul Stucky Optics Lab help provide spaces for KWU Mathematics and Physics students to hone their craft.