You can continue to pursue your interests in a number of areas with credit courses that range from music to technology and wellness.
Mathematics is a language common to many different areas of human endeavor. Applied mathematics, in particular, is used in professions as diverse as actuarial science, operations research, management science, decision analysis, engineering physics, biometrics, econometrics and education.
The mathematics department offers a broad range of courses. At the freshman level, the core courses are designed to increase students' mathematical literacy while providing background in the basic areas of mathematics. The upper level courses offer the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to prepare students for careers in science, business or education.
In addition to your classes in other coursework, you can elect for a minor in mathematics by completing a minimum of 15 credits hours of course work in mathematics beyond any mathematics courses required by your major. As a minimum, your minor in mathematics must include at least two semesters of calculus.
Dr. Karen McPherson, chair
Worried you’ll lose touch with your musical side if you choose not to pursue an arts program? At Delaware Valley University, there’s no need to let your passion fade. We’re proud to offer a wide variety of non-major music courses to help you refine and expand your knowledge on the beloved subject. In addition, we have plenty of extracurricular programs that will allow you to refine and showcase your musical talents.
Music In The Classroom
At DelVal, we have an engaging assortment of music-related educational courses to please avid music lovers. Our Music Appreciation course examines, interprets and analyzes the most integral types of music throughout various stages of history. Another course, Introduction to Ethnomusicology, takes the reasons behind music into consideration and encourages students to ponder what stories music can tell about the societies from which they originate.
Step Into The Spotlight
From choral beginners to veteran flutists, there’s a place for every musician at Delaware Valley University Delaware Valley University Chorale – Open to all DelVal students, this ensemble can be pursued as a credit or simply joined as an extracurricular activity. The group is often found performing at important school events as well as its annual winter and spring concerts, and performances can include pieces ranging from revered masterpieces to popular music.
Delaware Valley University Symphonic Band – Like the DelVal Chorale, our symphonic band is an option for all students that can be joined outside of your schedule or taken for a credit – but in this case, the ensemble might also include alumni, faculty, staff and any interested Bucks County musicians. The band performs during Commencement, Founder’s Day and many more school events in addition to two concerts held throughout each semester.
Delaware Valley University Jazz Band – DelVal’s 20-member jazz ensemble is considerably more exclusive than the aforementioned groups. Members of the symphonic band must audition and be selected by the director in order to participate. Students who make the grade can expect to play classics from composers like Ellington and Gershwin as well as fun contemporary cuts.
Depending on a number of factors, incoming DelVal students who commit to perform in one of these ensembles may be eligible for a scholarship to help them kick-start their educational journey at Delaware Valley University.
Many studies have pointed to a positive correlation between exercise and academic success. With this and many other benefits in mind, Delaware Valley University constructed the required core curriculum with two physical education credits. There are plenty of ways for students to go about checking these credits off their list.
DelVal’s physical education courses serve as opportunities for our students to ensure that they’re in peak physical condition throughout their studies. Both 1109 and 1209 are essentially the same course, with the former offered during the fall semester and the latter offered in the spring, and each provides one credit toward the two required for the core curriculum.
The overall goal of these courses is to help students refine their level of fitness. This goal is accomplished throughout a number of activities, including:
- Weight training
- Aerobic conditioning
- Jogging
- Dance exercise
- Dance on video
- Aerobics
PE 1109 and 1209 can be taken up to four times, with the first two credits serving to satisfy core physical education requirements and the next two counting as additional elective credits.
Broaden Your Horizons
There are other physical education courses available at DelVal, too, including PE 2011 – First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Though this particular course does not satisfy the PE core curriculum requirement, it still offers solid, beneficial knowledge that can help students act effectively in the event of an emergency.
Be A Team Player
Delaware Valley University’s student-athletes may also satisfy their physical education credits through participation on one of DelVal’s many sports teams. Student-athletes joining a team must simply register for PE 1109 or 1209, attend the first class and then continue participation with the sports team for the credit to count.
When it comes to sports, DelVal offers Division III intercollegiate teams for both men and women to choose from, including baseball, softball, basketball, football, field hockey and much more. Take a look at our athletics department to learn more about what DVU has in store for passionate student athletes.
Courses in information systems provide you with a solid foundation in the concepts of information technology, which includes computer hardware and software, web technologies, telecommunications and networks, databases and information systems. The courses also emphasize hands-on practical experience in a small laboratory environment. Students in any major who want to strengthen their marketability may consider a minor in information technology.
Students should register for the courses with the physical education department in the fall and spring and must take both semesters for credit, as with PE 1109 and 1209.