Department of Mathematics and Computer Science

Department Information

Programs

Faculty

DALE HATHAWAY (1989)
Professor of Mathematics
B.S., 1983, Eastern Nazarene College
M.A., 1986, Boston University
Ph.D., 1989, Boston University

DANIEL L. GREEN (1993)
Professor of Mathematics
B.A., 1986, Kalamazoo College
M.A., 1989, Western Michigan University
Ph.D., 1997, Bowling Green State University

JUSTIN A. BROWN (2009)
Associate Professor of Mathematics; Chair, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
B.A., 2003, Point Loma Nazarene University
M.S., 2005, Northeastern University
Ph.D., 2009, Northeastern University

NICHOLAS BOROS (2012)
Associate Professor of Mathematics
B.A., 2003, University of Michigan-Flint
Ph.D., 2012, Michigan State University

JEREMY LYLE (2015)
Associate Professor of Mathematics
B.A., 2002, MidAmerica Nazarene University
M.S., 2004, Clemson University
Ph.D., 2008, Clemson University

DARL RASSI (2015)
Associate Professor of Mathematics
B.S., 2004, University of Illinois
M.S., 2008, Illinois State University
Ph.D., 2020, Illinois State University

JEFFREY RICE, CISSP, CEH, CPT/CEPT, ACE (2018)
Associate Professor of Computer Science
B.S., 1999, Olivet Nazarene University
M.B.A., 2003, Olivet Nazarene University

DANIEL KENDER (2021)
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
B.S., 2008, Purdue University, Calumet
M.S., 2013, Purdue University, Calumet

The mission of the mathematics courses at Olivet Nazarene University is to develop in its students the characteristics of logical and analytical thinking, an appreciation of the beauty of mathematical structures, and problem solving skills needed for career and personal development. This mission includes instruction in mathematics for the liberal arts, instruction in mathematics in support of other disciplines, and in advanced mathematics for departmental majors.

The department offers mathematics majors leading to either bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees, along with bachelor of science degrees in either mathematics teaching, actuarial science, or data science. Minors in mathematics, both teaching and non-teaching are also offered, as are minors in statistics or data science.

The skills developed through a degree in mathematics will open the career door to almost any profession. Jobs related to mathematics are near the top of most ratings of professions. Actuarial Science in particular is often the top rated profession and comes with a zero unemployment rate. Actuaries work in the insurance and financial planning fields.

Data Science is a new program, created because of the demand in this technological society we live in to effectively analyze the huge amounts of data that are readily available. It is a natural combination of computing ability along with statistical knowledge. It has been recently called the “Hottest job in America” and is applicable to almost any academic area.

One area within the department that has been particularly strong, is the B.S. in Mathematics Teaching. These graduates go on to become mathematics teachers in junior or senior high schools. Our graduates have an exceptionally high rate of obtaining jobs upon completion of their degree.

For students who wish to further their studies, graduate teaching fellowships in mathematics are readily available at major universities; cost is therefore typically not a factor for students who go to graduate school in mathematics.

The computer science courses at Olivet Nazarene University exist to prepare students for a life of learning and for professional careers in computer science and technology-related fields. The department believes the Lord has given us “Minds for Computing and Hearts for Serving”. Through project-based learning, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are developed. Many courses offer the opportunity for earning professional certifications, giving students a strategic advantage in the marketplace.

Dedicated to the hands-on practical application of technology, the department places a high value on emerging technologies. With the rapid changes in technology, it is critical that the most current technologies are taught in the classroom.

One of the strengths of the department rests in a core set of specific courses that every student takes regardless of computer science major or concentration. This core provides learners with a strong foundation across a range of computer science and technology disciplines. The department offers a B.S. in Cybersecurity, a B.S. in Computer Science (with concentrations in software development, software entrepreneurship and network and data communications), and a B.A. in Computing Technology. Students are encouraged to pursue more than one degree or concentration in the department. Courses are offered both on-ground and online to assist students with scheduling. Labs, including Computing Labs, Cyber Labs, Networking Lab, Robotics Lab, and the Technology Center are accessible to students to enhance hands-on learning. Students are encouraged to complete industry internship experiences in summers and during the academic year.

The B.S. degrees require more hours in the department for increased depth and technical focus. Students completing a B.S degree must complete all required core, major specific, concentration, and supporting courses with a grade of “C” or better. The B.A. degree requires fewer hours in the department. A 2.0 grade point average is required in all core, major and required supporting courses for the B.A..

The department helps support the B.S. degree in Management Information Systems in the School of Business. Minors in Computer Science and Cybersecurity Defense provide a range of options to support a variety of student goals. Education students should also investigate the education endorsements in programming and technology found in the School of Education.

Programs

Bachelor

Minor