MATHEMATICS
The College of Arts & Sciences has a 3 credit mathematics (MA) requirement as part of its distribution requirements. Students should not feel they must take a calculus course to satisfy this requirement!
The only majors in our college that absolutely require calculus are the those in the Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Joint International Relations and Economics, Mathematics, Physics, and the B.S. programs in both Earth and Environmental Science and Cognitive Science. The Phi Beta Kappa profile also includes calculus.
In general, students leaning toward Social Science majors or those in the Arts and Humanities can pursue a non-calculus course to satisfy their Math requirement. In all cases, students should consult the current catalog (catalog.lehigh.edu) to determine the mathematics course(s) that are required and recommended by different degree programs.
NON–CALCULUS MATH COURSES
MATH 005: Introduction to Mathematical Thought (3 credits) spring semester only
This course introduces students to the meaning, content, and methods of mathematical thought. The course considers mathematical topics of interest for their own sake, rather than for specific applications. Topics used for illustration will vary. Students do not need a strong high school math background. Math 005 is well suited to students majoring in the humanities. The math content is ‘real,’ and students should expect to perform math.
MATH 012: Basic Statistics (4 credits) fall & spring
This course provides a foundation for the statistical description and analysis of data, which are fundamental issues in the social sciences. Students in the natural sciences also benefit from studying statistics, although calculus might be a higher priority early.
INTRODUCTORY CALCULUS COURSES
Please review the Calculus Placement page for information about calculus.