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Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics

If you enjoy logic, scientific inquiry and research, and recognizing, analyzing, and interpreting data, consider earning a degree in mathematics.

As a student in the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics program at Â鶹ֱ²¥, you will explore the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, and combinations.

You’ll study numerical analysis, approximation methods, optimization theories, and decision-making techniques. You’ll also learn about abstract shapes and spaces in order to understand configurations, structures, measurements, and transformations. 

Why study mathematics at Â鶹ֱ²¥?

Earning a B.S. in math will teach you how to frame scientific inquiry by solving quantitative problems, interpreting scientific research, and utilizing sound judgment in numerical analyses.

Examples include:

• Designing algorithms for software, hardware, robotic systems, and other high-tech applications.
• Analyzing and interpreting data using mathematical models to improve business decisions.
• Testing old theories to take a new look at numerical relationships, comparing inferences derived from mathematical models with laboratory findings and observations.
• Developing mathematical models to understand the progression of cancer cells or other biological/chemical phenomena for life science research companies.
• Applying statistical and numerical methods to study aerospace, manufacturing, defense, or environmental simulations.
• Studying interest rate and market derivatives for investment and securities firms.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for mathematicians is projected to grow by 21 percent through 2024, much faster than average for all occupations.

The average median annual wage for mathematicians was nearly $106,000 in 2016.

Sample Four-Year Plan and Checklist

What will you study?

If you pursue a B.S. in mathematics at Â鶹ֱ²¥, you’ll complete prerequisite, core, general education, and required courses, such as:

• Abstract algebra
• Advanced geometry
• Applied linear models
• Discrete mathematics
• Mathematical modeling
• Numerical methods
• Number theory
• Real analysis

What career paths are available?

This program enables you to combine your interest in math with subjects like computer science or engineering.

The B.S. in math degree is excellent preparation for graduate study and careers in K-12 education or academia. It’s also a good fit for quantitative careers in fields like statistics or the life sciences. Alternatively, you will also be prepared for graduate school if you want to earn a master’s or Ph.D. degree.

To ensure you have maximum employment opportunities upon graduation, you must complete a concentration area in one of these subjects:

• Actuarial science
• Applied computer science
• Applied mathematics
• Statistics

Many students also choose to add an academic minor or a double-major to their plans of study.

• If you want to work in technology, consider a double-major in business analytics or engineering.
• To pursue a career in business, think about a double-major in finance or accounting as well as minors in business, a foreign language, or global studies.
• For careers in product research and development, consider a concentration in bioinformatics, bio-organic chemistry, cell and molecular biology, chemical physics, clinical psychology, or ecology and environmental sciences.

As a graduate, you’ll be prepared to work in public or private settings, such as:

• Corporate and business: Advanced manufacturing enterprises, logistics and transportation-related firms, and civil, mechanical, and industrial engineering firms
• Technology: Software, networking, Internet service providers, and electrical and computer engineering companies
• Public: Municipal, state, and federal government agencies, such as those related to environmental protection, defense, or cybersecurity

Job titles for students with a B.S. in math could include:

• Business analyst
• Biostatistician
• Database, network, or systems administrator
• Operational researcher
• Public health researcher
• Senior software engineer