Are you interested in patterns, reasoning, solving problems and science? Do you find yourself enjoying math class? Would you like a vocation in teaching math, engineering or programming? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider a degree in mathematics. Math departments have courses in all areas of mathematics to prepare students for a number of vocations that utilize math daily.
What skills does a math major have?
Many basic skill sets are enhanced by majoring in mathematics. Here are just a few: creativity, organization and reasoning, as well as the ability to clearly define and communicate ideas. Also, the ability to analyze and develop new options for problem solving is enhanced. Students who major in math will also learn skills in utilizing software such as Excel, Mathematica and Maple.
Will I take only math classes?
No. There are other standard courses for every math major. Others courses will be recommended to match your particular interests or career path. A student majoring in mathematics can also double major or minor in other areas of study by choosing additional courses. For example, some students choose accompanying majors and minors from the natural sciences, physics, engineering, computer science, economics, business, social sciences, and, if preparing to teach, additional education classes.
Popular math courses include Calculus, Discrete Mathematics, Abstract Algebra, Advanced Geometry, Probability and Statistics, and Computer Programming. To find out what specific courses that are available to you, talk with an advisor from your school of choice!
Check out this blog post to learn more about adding a minor!
Are there internship opportunities in the math field?
There are plenty of internships that a math major can look into. Internships can be done locally or regionally either during the school year or throughout the summer. The National Science Foundation funds many good Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). Besides REUs, math majors can gain access to national supercomputer center resources through computational science internships. Internship programs prepare students for graduate school or for positions in business, industry, actuarial mathematics or teaching.
What careers could I have with a degree in mathematics?
There are countless options when it comes to careers with a mathematics degree. Some common choices include teaching high school math, programming, developing actuarial risk analyses for insurance companies, statistics and analytics, engineering and applied math for the natural or social sciences. And still, that’s just a small slice of options. Some graduates even find that their reasoning and creative organizational skills lead to careers as diverse as law or the ministry.
At Bluffton University…
At Bluffton University, we foster a solid sense of community built on regular offerings of math seminars and social events. The smaller size of our department means that we can really get to know our students as individuals. That tailored, individual attention aids student career exploration through advising, and encourages undergraduate research projects and independent studies with dedicated faculty.
The mathematics department embraces the Bluffton University institutional goal of emphasizing individual inquiry, critical thinking and lifelong learning. For mathematics majors, we maintain a program that guarantees both depth and breadth.
Discover more about the mathematics program by scheduling a campus visit today!
Written by Kaylee Rauch ’26, public relations student assistant with information from Stephen Harnish, mathematical and natural sciences department chair