Procedures

The Comprehensive Exam is taken in the fall semester of the student's senior year. It consists of a sequence of four take-home exams, scheduled in September and October; a student has 10 -12 days to solve the problems on each of the exams.

The exams reflect the material of the following courses: MATH 121 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus I), MATH 122 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus II), MATH 221 (Analytic Geometry and Calculus III), and MATH 301 (Linear Algebra), MATH 321 (Abstract Algebra I), and one upper-level elective course of the student's choice. Students majoring in Mathematical Finance take a slightly different exam that includes material from MATH 434 (Introduction to Mathematical Finance) in place of the material from Math 321 and from the elective course.

It is understood that while some references are permitted, each student shall work individually. The problems are not to be discussed until they have been turned in.

Each of the exams is scored on scale of 0 - 10 points. The passing grade is 21 points or higher. To be considered for possible honors, the student must get at least 31 points. Any student whose score is below 21 points will be given a second chance to pass the Comprehensive Exam. He or she will receive additional take-home assignments similar to the exams of the main sequence.

The Comprehensive Exam is coordinated by the chair of the Comprehensive Exam/Contest Committee.