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Mathematics Major

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Mathematics

Do you like to use mathematical formulas, theories, techniques, and the latest algorithms to solve real-world problems, like collecting and analyzing data to use for making business decisions?

As a student in the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Mathematics at Marian University, you’ll learn how to use computational and modeling methods in math to improve processes and generate solutions.

You will also complete liberal arts courses and have the opportunity to study topics outside math, like the natural and physical sciences or languages and world cultures.

Learn more about our Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences and faculty

Why study mathematics at Marian?

Earning a B.A. degree in math will prepare you for entry-level careers in business, education, engineering, technology, and other fields.

It will also prepare you for success in top graduate programs if your educational goals include earning a master’s or doctoral degree in a field like economics or engineering.

When you complete our program, you’ll learn to solve quantifiable problems. You will study
a problem, think about each of its parts, and apply appropriate mathematical concepts and tools to develop a solution.

You’ll also be prepared to utilize your math knowledge, skill, and expertise in collaboration with others. Examples include:

  • Analyzing the most efficient routes and logistics for transporting manufactured goods by road, rail, air, or water.
  • Quantifying the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment protocols.
  • Determining money and fuel saved through more economical automobile designs or improved roadway systems.
  • Developing, deciphering, and analyzing data encryption systems and codes designed to communicate sensitive information for law-enforcement, military, or financial purposes.

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.

What will you study?

To earn a B.A. in mathematics at Marian University, you’ll complete a variety of prerequisite, core, general education, and required courses, such as:

  • Calculus and analytic geometry
  • Fundamentals and special applications of calculus
  • Differential equations
  • Statistical inference and data analysis
  • Problem-solving and introduction to proofs
  • Probability theory
  • Applied linear models

Mathematics Sample Four-Year Plan and Checklist

What career paths are available?

To increase your competitiveness in the employment market, you will add an academic minor, concentration area, or double-major outside your major to your plan of study.

  • If you want to teach math in a K-12 setting, for example, consider a double-major in elementary or secondary education, applied educational studies, or special education.
  • To pursue a career in the business or corporate world, a double-major in accounting, business analytics, finance, or marketing might be right for you. Alternatively, you could minor in business or earn a concentration in statistics.
  • Employment with technology companies is another popular career path. In this case, you might choose a concentration in applied computer science, applied mathematics, bioinformatics, or management information systems.

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

  • Corporate and business: Banking and investment firms, health/life/property insurance industries, and logistics and transportation-related businesses
  • Education: K-12 school and post-secondary institutions, including community colleges
  • Public: Municipal, state, and federal government agencies, including those responsible for administering social service, public health, and other programs.

Examples of job titles include:

  • Accountant, auditor, forensic accountant, or actuary
  • Cryptographer
  • Data analyst and database administrator
  • Information systems, operations, or computer analyst
  • Logistician
  • Market research analyst

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 Marian University, 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.

Learn more about our Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences and faculty

Why study mathematics at Marian?

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 Marian University, 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