Department of Mathematics and StatisticsHistory
From the Beginning: Mathematics Department
Department history overview
The Mathematics Department at Texas Technological College began in 1925, the year the college opened for classes. From the start, mathematics served as one of the institution’s core academic areas, offering foundational courses in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus for students in science, engineering, and teacher-training programs. Under the leadership of its first head, James Newton Michie, the department established its academic identity and helped organize the Tech Math Club in 1927, reflecting the early emphasis on student involvement and scholarly community.
By the late 1940s and through the 1960s, the department expanded significantly under Dr. Emmett Hazlewood and later Dr. Patrick L. Odell. Mathematics became one of the largest departments on campus, driven by growing demand in science and technology fields. The curriculum added advanced courses in statistics, topology, operational calculus, geometry, and applied mathematics, while the graduate program grew steadily—culminating in the awarding of the department’s first Ph.D. in Mathematics in 1967. Mathematics faculty were active in research, teacher preparation, and national organizations such as Kappa Mu Epsilon.
By the late 1970s, international enrollment in mathematics and related graduate programs increased sharply, contributing to the department’s growing global presence. In 1980, the department moved into the former University Library building—constructed in 1938—where it continues to operate today. Together, these developments reflect nearly a century of sustained academic growth, research activity, and evolving educational leadership in mathematics and statistics at Texas Tech University.
James Newton Michie
The first Department Head was James Newton Michie, who guided its development for 25 years. His leadership helped establish the program’s academic direction and early identity, culminating in his retirement in 1950.
Foreign Language and Mathematics Building
In the spring of 1967, the new $1.4 million Foreign Language and Mathematics Building was completed as part of a larger $50 million construction initiative that significantly reshaped the Texas Tech campus. The new facility was built just west of the University Library.
Move to the former Library building (1980)
In 1980, the Mathematics Department relocated to the former Library building, where it remains today. Constructed in 1938 at a cost of $275,000, the building was air-conditioned from the start and was considered one of the university’s most modern and distinguished facilities at the time.
Department of Mathematics & Statistics
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Address
Texas Tech University, 1108 Memorial Circle, Lubbock, TX 79409-1042 -
Phone
806.742.2566 -
Email
math.dept@ttu.edu