Mathematics is both a profession and an indispensable tool for many types of work. As a tool, mathematics is a universal language that has been crucial in formulating and expressing ideas not only in science and engineering, but also in many other areas such as business and the social sciences. As probably the oldest and most basic science, it provides the key to understanding the major technological achievements of our time. Of equal importance, knowledge of mathematics may help provide a student with the type of uncompromising and clear-sighted thinking useful in considering the problems of many other disciplines. The Mathematics degree program encompasses mathematics, statistics, and applied mathematics.