Western Carolina University
Program Assessment Plan
M.S. Program in Applied Mathematics
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
Assessment Plan for 2006 - 2007
Primary Contact Name/Info:
Joe Klerlein, Chair of Graduate Committee
Klerlein@email.wcu.edu
Applied Mathematics Program Mission Statement
The Applied Mathematics Program within the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at
Western Carolina University emphasizes excellence and continuous improvement in graduate learning by
stressing knowledge, along with technical and interpersonal skills in the development of mathematical
decision-making. The Program seeks to serve those interested in careers in industry and teaching as well
as those planning to pursue further graduate study.
Statement on Alignment of Program Mission w/ University and College Mission
The most significant activities of Applied Mathematics Program are the teaching and learning process that
occur both inside and outside of the classroom. The mission statement assumes the students scholarly
development coupled with continued faculty scholarly development. As a whole the goals and objectives of
the program are designed to produce mathematically educated members of society.
Statement of Program Goals
Goal I:
(Knowledge) Students will develop a fundamental understanding of the main branches of mathematics
while acquiring depth in mathematics.
Goal II:
(Reasoning) Students will develop a deep understanding of logical inference and mathematical reasoning.
Goal III:
(Communication) Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate mathematical thought effectively.
Goal IV:
(Independent Learning) Students will demonstrate the ability to independently master a topic.
Intended Outcome
I. Students will demonstrate an
understanding of the following
fundamental concepts:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Mathematical Modeling
Matrix Analysis
Numerical Analysis
Functional Analysis
Design of Experiments
II. Students will demonstrate a deep
understanding of logical inference
and mathematical reasoning:
a. Students will be able to make
conjectures.
b. Students will be able to prove
theorems.
III. Students will demonstrate their
ability to communicate mathematical
thought in:
a. written form
b. oral form
IV. Students will demonstrate their
ability to learn independently.
Course/Experience/Activity
Course/Experience/Activity
Students acquire the
fundamental concepts
through the required core
courses.
Students will also demonstrate
a-e Students learn about
their knowledge in these areas in
these concepts in the courses either a master’s thesis or a
Math 530, 662, 640, 622, and master’s project.
672. Students will
demonstrate this knowledge
on a comprehensive
examination for each of these
courses.
Students will acquire the
ability to reason and infer in
each of their graduate
courses.
Students will also demonstrate
a-b. Students will
their ability in these areas in either
demonstrate these abilities
a master’s thesis or a master’s
on a comprehensive
project.
examination for each of these
graduate courses.
Students will demonstrate
their written communication
skills in course examinations
and course projects.
Students will also demonstrate
Students will demonstrate
their ability in these areas in either
their oral communication
a master’s thesis or a master’s
skills in class presentations.
project. The thesis and project
each require a written paper and
an oral presentation.
Students will demonstrate
Students will also demonstrate
this ability in course projects. their ability in this area either by
completing a master’s thesis or by
completing a master’s project.