Faculty Profile
Jennifer Schaefer
Professor of Mathematics (2008)
Contact Information
Tome Scientific Building
717-245-1402
Bio
Jennifer Schaefer is a theoretical mathematician whose research interests include the areas of symmetric spaces of finite groups and applications of group theory and number theory. Schaefer’s scholarship also explores pedagogical topics, such as writing in the discipline and first-year seminars. Her most recent book project, Mathematical Themes in a First-Year Seminar, is a co-edited, contributed volume of over 30 chapters describing first-year seminars with mathematical themes taught at different institutions. She and her collaborators hope this book serves as a resource for other mathematics faculty tasked with teaching a first-year seminar.
Education
- B.S., University of North Dakota, 2003
- M.S., University of Iowa, 2004
- Ph.D., 2008
2026-2027 Academic Year
Fall 2026
MATH 211 Foundations of Higher Math
An introduction to fundamental mathematical concepts used in mathematics and computer science, with an emphasis on writing mathematical arguments. The course presents the principles of mathematical logic, sets, functions, and methods of proof. Prerequisite: 170 - OR - COMP 130 or higher AND MATH Placement Exam Score of at least 15 or MATH 151 - OR - departmental placement. Offered every semester.
Spring 2027
MATH 170 Single Variable Calculus
The study of real-valued functions, including transcendental functions, limits, derivatives and their applications, the definition of the Riemann integral, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.Three hours of classroom and one and a half hour of lab per week. Prerequisite: 151 or departmental placement. Offered every semester.
MATH 262 Linear Algebra
An introduction to matrix algebra and abstract vector spaces with an emphasis on writing mathematical arguments. Topics include linear systems and matrices, vector spaces, linear independence, eigenvalues and eigenvectors.Prerequisite: 211 or permission of the instructor. Offered every semester.