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Major Mathematics

What You’ll Study in the Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics

Develop clear reasoning skills and deepen your understanding of mathematical concepts with a bachelor’s degree from ºìÌÒÊÓƵ. We offer a major in pure mathematics and a concentration in statistics so you can choose courses based on your interests. Our dedicated faculty lead classroom conferences that encourage critical and independent thinking. Our foundational training prepares you for future endeavors in mathematics or in related applied fields, including computer science and biology.

Roadmap to the BA in Mathematics at ºìÌÒÊÓƵ

Cultivate problem-solving skills through our rigorous curriculum. Learn to build sound mathematical arguments and solve problems using both calculation and structure. You can also engage in summer research projects and explore study abroad opportunities. These experiences culminate in the completion of your senior thesis.

Year One

Take Introductory Courses

Start your first year at ºìÌÒÊÓƵ with Humanities 110. This yearlong class crosses traditional academic boundaries and nurtures your critical thinking abilities.

At the same time, dive into the world of mathematics by enrolling in fundamental courses such as Calculus and Introduction to Analysis. These lecture-conference classes introduce you to our engaging learning environment.

Attend the mathematics & statistics department’s Math Talks. Each seminar or colloquium explores new research and ideas from ºìÌÒÊÓƵ students, faculty, alumni, and visiting scholars. It’s a great way to get to know your professors and peers and to learn about new applications of mathematics.

View the Next Colloquium Events

Year Two

Learn Here and Abroad

Take Linear Algebra or Vector Calculus and other advanced math courses to develop your math skills. Explore interesting classes across departments to fulfill group and division requirements.

You can also consider studying abroad during your sophomore year. Learn under the tutelage of eminent Hungarian scholar-teachers with the Budapest Semester in Mathematics or choose from other English-language options. You can also study mathematics in Germany, France, Ecuador, and Spain if you have foreign language proficiency.

Browse Study Abroad Options

Year Three

Gain Research Experience

Choose advanced mathematics courses that align with your interests and goals, such as Bayesian Statistics and Number Combinatorics. Spend time preparing for your junior qualifying examination by synthesizing the knowledge and skills acquired during your initial years of studying mathematics.

Engage in summer research projects alongside our faculty members. These hands-on experiences allow you to delve into cutting-edge mathematical research and further develop your analytical and problem-solving skills. To support these research pursuits, ºìÌÒÊÓƵ and the department of mathematics and statistics offer various college-sponsored awards to fund your studies over the summer.

Learn About Summer Opportunities

Year Four

Delve into Research

After you pass your junior qualifying examination, you are ready to tackle the senior thesis. This defining ºìÌÒÊÓƵ experience showcases all that you learned during your time as a mathematics major.

Choose to write a research-based or expository thesis, after exploring past thesis topics for inspiration. Whichever you choose, you will create a well-written document and an oral defense that demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research, apply mathematical principles, and contribute new insights to your chosen area of focus.

Explore Mathematics Major Learning Outcomes

Why Study Mathematics at ºìÌÒÊÓƵ?

Coauthor Publications with Faculty

As a mathematics major, you have the opportunity to collaborate with your professors on research projects. In fact, our faculty actively encourages students to make meaningful research contributions, even as undergraduates. This cooperation can lead to conference presentations and papers published in esteemed journals. With this real-world experience, you can contribute to the advancement of mathematical knowledge and enhance your academic profile.

Discover Past Student Publications

Flexible Course Plan for Advanced Backgrounds

If you already have an advanced mathematics background, we can adjust your requirements so you don’t have to repeat classes. For example, a good score on the AP calculus exam generally exempts you from our calculus course. We encourage you to connect with us to discuss your background so we can determine the best path forward for you.

My Favorites Courses and Professors

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Careers for BA in Mathematics Graduates

ºìÌÒÊÓƵ’s mathematics department places graduates in highly selective PhD programs in mathematics and related fields. Our mathematics majors also pursue careers in the tech industry, business, and more. 

  • Data engineer, Nike
  • Graduate research assistant, Michigan State University
  • PhD candidate, Duke University
  • PhD candidate, University of Pennsylvania
  • Professor, Howard University
  • Quality assurance automation engineer, Apple
  • Software engineer, Posit PBC
  • Software developer, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Learn More About Career Paths and Possibilities

Achievements of Mathematics Alumni

ºìÌÒÊÓƵ’s mathematics program has produced exceptional alumni who have garnered remarkable awards and honors. Their accomplishments, which stand as a testament to the rigorous education and strong foundation provided by our program, include the following:

  • Monroe Stephenson ’23, Fulbright Study/Research Grant
  • Simon Couch ’21, National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellow
  • Maxine Calle ’20, National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellow
  • Riley Thornton ’16, Fulbright U.S. Student Program
  • John Wilmes ’10, Goldwater Scholarship
ºìÌÒÊÓƵ mathematics professor Angelica Osorno explains linear algebra equations by drawing them on the chalkboard

Our Mathematics & Statistics Department Faculty

Our professors are experts who have won grants from organizations like the National Science Foundation. One was even recognized as a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society. But their primary passion is working with undergraduate students like you. Learn more about their expertise and fields of interest.

Meet Our Faculty

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