Handbook for the Applied Discrete Mathematics Option

The Applied Discrete Mathematics (ADM) Option is one of four options or paths toward a B.S. in Mathematics offered at Virginia Tech, the others being

the Traditional Option
the Mathematics Education Option
the Applied and Computational Mathematics Option

As computer power and applications have evolved, the importance of combinatorics and discrete mathematics has grown tremendously. Techniques which employ combinatorics and discrete mathematics are being used in almost every area where mathematical computations are found. In response to this area's increased importance and utility, the Department has developed the ADM Option, in which the student is given exposure to fundamental ideas and techniques in discrete mathematics and combinatorics. Since computers are central in these applications we also require the students in this option to develop a strong foundation in Computer Science.

The ADM Option is designed to allow students either to enter the job market after their undergraduate years or to continue their studies at a graduate-degree level. Those students who wish to begin work after their undergraduate degree will have training in combinatorial techniques, including graph theory (used in electrical circuits, computer algorithms and optimization problems -- among many other areas), number theory (basic to coding theory and algorithm development), counting techniques (employed in almost every area where mathematics is applied), and general algebraic theories (providing the student with a strong abstract mathematical foundation).

A student completing the ADM Option will be employable in many different capacities. For example, our students would be prepared to work for the National Security Agency (which employs many mathematicians and is interested in applications of coding theory), software development companies, engineering companies that need software development, and research laboratories such as Bell Laboratories and IBM Laboratories. Students who complete the ADM Option will have both the mathematical sophistication to handle abstractions and a firm grounding in applicable techniques. These skills will be enhanced by a strong background in the use of computers which will include programming proficiency.

For those students who wish to continue their education, the ADM Option requires the student to complete the basic mathematics courses that are required for admission to most graduate programs in mathematics. By adding three additional credits in Computer Science, students can obtain a minor in that area, and possibly continue on to graduate school in Computer Science.

More Information:

Degree requirements for the ADM Option are contained in the latest ADM Checksheet.
Additional information on the ADM Option: contact Charles Parry (email: parrycj AT math.vt.edu, phone: 540-231-5516).
Information concerning topics that uniformly affect all four Mathematics undergraduate degree options: see the Undergraduate Handbook for Mathematics Majors. These topics include scholarships, advising, University and College of Sciences Core Curriculum requirements, course content explanations, the Honors Program, dual majors, minors, the Cooperative Education Program, undergraduate activities, mathematics competitions, job placement, and preparation for graduate school.