Mathematics
Mathematics is the study of quantity, structure, space and change. It is developed through the use of abstraction and logical reasoning from counting, calculations, measurement, study of shapes & change. Mathematics is also used to refer to the insight gained by mathematicians by doing mathematics, also known as the body of mathematical knowledge. This latter meaning of mathematics includes the mathematics used to do calculations and is an indispensable tool in the natural sciences and engineering.
Career paths chosen by students pursuing undergraduate studies in mathematics commonly include teaching, actuary, computer science, statistics, physics and engineering. Careers in the discipline that generally require graduate-level degrees include mathematics, engineering and the natural sciences. Even students who choose not to major in mathematics find that coursework in the field can improve their ability to think critically, solve complex problems, perform research and analysis and improve their writing skills.
College of the Desert’s mathematics curriculum includes course offerings that provide a general overview of the discipline, as well as specific mathematical topics that can be applied to other areas like physics, chemistry, biology, computer science and engineering. The College offers an Associate of Science degree, as well as courses leading to transfer. Students earning an associate’s degree in mathematics may pursue (entry-level) positions as teacher’s aid or may choose to continue their study in the discipline toward a bachelor’s or graduate degree. COD has transfer agreements with California State Universities and University of California systems in this discipline/program. However, transfer requirements at four-year colleges and universities vary from institution to institution; students should consult with a counselor for specific information regarding the transfer requirements of their preferred college or university.
In addition, the Mathematics Department offers an extensive remedial mathematics curriculum to assist the large portion of students that enter the College and are not prepared for college-level mathematics. For more information please call 760.773.2573.
