Mathematical Sciences
Mathematics is a beautiful science built on rigorous logic. It creates a foundation for science and technology, through the development of which it has a close mutual relationship with physics and other fields of study in the natural sciences. On the other hand, a knowledge of computers is also essential in this era of rapidly evolving information technology.
The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers an extension to traditional mathematics courses, including a comprehensive study of physics, computers and other topics built around mathematics. We foster talented individuals, not just with specialist knowledge but also with the ability to apply logical thinking and flexible ideas. We teach with the aim of fostering individuals able to contribute to the development of cultures, and who will serve in a range of fields in education and information industries after graduation.
The Department of Mathematical Sciences is therefore looking for students with the following characteristics. Students who are skilled in numbers, who have a love of numbers, who have an intense interest in numbers and related fields, and who want to learn the power of logical thinking.
Messages from Current and Graduate Students
Hitomi Saga
(Fourth-Year Student, 2006)
Students of Shinshu University are able to live and study within the tranquil, natural environment of Nagano Prefecture. The Department of Mathematical Sciences is situated in the Faculty of Science building, a nice new building only a few years old, where in addition to studying, students and teachers join in many friendly activities such as cherry-blossom viewing parties and softball tournaments. I learned a lot - about both study and play - from my teachers, seniors and colleagues at university, and this helped me a lot as I matured. By concentrating on solving each mathematical problem, I learned how to concentrate and how to persevere with a problem until I succeed. With views of the Northern Alps and enjoying various river activities, Nagano offered me many experiences that are unavailable to people in the cities. Winters are very cold but that means ski resorts are close by for snowboarding and skiing. I really enjoyed the subject, and highly recommend it to anyone who wants to enjoy their time at university.
Kazunori Noguchi (left) and Hiroshi Tanioka (right)
(Second-Year Students, Master's Program, 2006)
We are carrying out research in the field of algebraic topology at the Graduate School of Science. The life of a graduate school student is different to the life of a university student in that we have almost no lessons but lots of free time. However, we have to use the knowledge we acquired as university students to select a research topic and carry out that research through trial and error. There are times when lack of progress gets us down, but it is an indescribable feeling when we finally understand our topic. As graduate school students, we assist our teachers in their university lessons and exercises, and that is a great way for us to revise the work we studied previously. There are lots of mathematics-related books in the graduate school research laboratories, and we have Internet access so the Department of Mathematical Sciences is a great place for us to study math. Colleagues in the research laboratories exchange ideas, and help and encourage each other in their studies. There are also lots of puzzles and magazines in the labs that give us a refreshing break from our research. We also occasionally go out drinking or do other interesting things with our friends from the labs. If you have enjoyed your life as a university student and are still interested in studying, we recommend graduate school.
