Mathematics is the foundation of many disciplines, and almost every career makes significant use of it. If you choose to pursue a career in this field, the value adds up when you take your first two years at RLC. Mathematicians use mathematical theory, computational techniques, algorithms, and the latest computer technology to solve economic, scientific, engineering, and business problems. The work of mathematicians falls into two broad classes: theoretical mathematics and applied mathematics.
Theoretical mathematicians advance mathematical knowledge by developing new principles and recognizing previously unknown relationships between existing principles of mathematics. Applied mathematicians use theories and techniques to formulate and solve practical problems in business, government, engineering, and the physical, life, and social sciences.
In the private sector, most mathematician jobs require a Ph.D. Entry-level mathematician jobs in the federal government may only require a bachelor’s degree with a major in mathematics. Either way, it adds up to savings when you take your first two years here. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
The following suggested curriculum is typical of that required by many universities for Mathematics majors. Many industries that hire mathematicians are engineering- or science-oriented, such as aircraft and missile, chemical, electrical equipment, and petroleum industries. Excellent career opportunities exist in business- and economic-related positions, statistical and actuarial work. A strong minor in a related field (such as business, economics, science, etc.) is helpful in preparing for specific areas of employment. Students should see an advisor for information about specific university requirements in mathematics.
1 Prerequisite course(s) may be required based test scores. 2One Life Science course and one Physical Science course needed to meet IAI core requirements. 3 Some four-year colleges/universities suggest a foreign language. 4 One Fine Arts course and one Humanities course needed to meet IAI core requirements. 5 To guarantee full transfer of credit, students must complete the entire course sequence at the same school before transfer.
Rend Lake College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of six regional accreditors in the United States. Accreditation is vital to what we do. It serves as a measure of quality, allows us to access and distribute federal student aid, facilitates the transfer of classes between institutions and more. The Higher Learning Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Rend Lake College has been accredited since 1969. Voluntary accreditation is an activity of great importance to Rend Lake College and the community it serves. The process ensures that RLC is accountable – that our programs are effective and that we are delivering on our guarantees of educational quality.
Students who graduate with an Associates in Science (AS) or an Associates in Arts (AA) have the ability to transfer to institutions that will allow them to continue towards a goal of a Bachelors degree (BA or BS).
Rend Lake College works with other institutions to allow for an easy transition to a four-year university. Some of the Universities that have this working relationship are:
2018 RLCF FACULTY EXCELLENCE AWARD | 2018 PHI THETA KAPPA FACULTY EXCELLENCE AWARD | M.S. Southern Illinois University Carbondale | B.A. McKendree University | A.A. Rend Lake College
