Students of mathematics are encouraged to pursue academic opportunities beyond traditional coursework, through undergraduate research projects or similar programs. These experiences allow students to delve more deeply into a particular topic and to learn firsthand what it is actually like to conduct mathematical or statistical research.
- Keck Undergraduate Research Program: This College program supports year-long student research projects in mathematics and the natural sciences. Under the guidance of a faculty member, students who apply for the program write a project proposal. Those who are accepted into the Keck Program receive funding to do research with faculty members during the summer and follow that research with a year-long independent study or honors study. Keck students are required to write a paper on their project and to present their results at a conference outside the department.
- Summer Research at Connecticut College: Students may also participate in a summer research project with a faculty member in mathematics. These projects may be funded by the College's Career Services internship program, through faculty grants, or with departmental funds. On-campus housing is currently provided free of charge to students doing a summer research project with a Connecticut College faculty member.
- Summer Research Programs at Other Institutions: Students intending to pursue a research career in mathematics or statistics should consider participating in one of the many Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) that are conducted at colleges and universities around the country. These programs, in which students most often participate the summer before their senior year, typically provide a stipend as well as support for housing and travel.
- Honors Theses and Individual Studies: Students may engage in research projects and receive course credit during the academic year as an individual study or an honors thesis. Students wishing to pursue honors study must have maintained a grade point average of at least 3.5 in all courses for the major and must submit an application to the department by the end of the junior year.
- Mathematics Seminar: All mathematics majors are required to enroll in the Mathematics Seminar (MAT 495) for at least one semester. The primary expectation of the seminar is that each student give a talk on a topic beyond the scope of a standard undergraduate course. Students are advised to consult the MAT 495 Seminar Guidelines at least a year before enrolling in the seminar.