Mathematics

Overview

Mathematics programs teach people how to use math to solve problems.

They include topics such as:

Algebra
Calculus
Functional analysis
Number theory

Concentrations

In mathematics programs, students may be able to specialize in:

Geometric analysis
Topology and foundations
Algebra and number theory
Analysis and functional analysis

Schools

Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in mathematics. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in mathematics. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

Many universities offer graduate degrees in mathematics. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

For this program, schools recommend that you know how to use a computer and the Internet. In addition, many schools require you to take a placement test, which determines the level of math courses you can begin taking.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Advanced Algebra courses
Calculus
Computer Science and Programming
Probability and Statistics

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement
Undergraduate major or significant course work in math, including calculus, linear algebra, and statistics

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Abstract Algebra
Calculus
Computer Science
Differential Equations
Discrete Mathematics
Geometry
History of Mathematics
Linear Algebra
Mathematical Reasoning
Multivariate Calculus
Physics
Probability
Real Analysis
Statistics
Vector Analysis

In addition, depending on your interests, you can take courses in other areas such as:

Actuarial Science
Business
Economics
Education
Engineering

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate programs that lead to a master's or doctoral degree typically include:

Required courses
Thesis (master's degree)
Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

Many schools combine math and statistics into a single program.

A bachelor's degree in math is considered a good background for future study in business, law, and medicine. Others go on to graduate school in math, computer science, engineering, or in related programs such as physics and astronomy.