The mathematics degree exposes students to a broad range of themes in mathematics, allowing them to specialize based on their goals in one of three concentrations: theoretical mathematics, applied mathematics, or statistics. In all concentrations, the deep study of mathematics equips students with analytical problem-solving skills and abstract reasoning abilities that help them stand out to employers and graduate programs. Many students combine their study of mathematics with a minor or major in a second area. Majors desiring secondary-teaching certification can earn this certification as a master’s degree or switch to a Secondary Education major to include the certification in the bachelor’s degree.
The theoretical mathematics concentration gives students a rigorous exposure to the major branches of mathematics, emphasizing logical deduction and proof-writing. It is designed to prepare students for graduate school in mathematics as well as a variety of careers that value analytical thinking, including software engineering and law school. Students are especially encouraged to pursue advanced special topic courses and research experience in their study.
The statistics concentration prepares students to analyze and interpret data utilizing statistical techniques that build upon a solid mathematical foundation, preparing students for a wide range of industry careers. It may be coupled with relevant coursework in business, biology, or computing to prepare students for a career or graduate work in actuarial science, biostatistics, or data analysis.
The applied mathematics concentration trains students with the mathematical tools most relevant for solving problems in the natural and social sciences, preparing students for a range of quantitative careers or graduate school. It is often paired with a major or minor such as engineering, physics, or chemistry where students can exercise mathematical problem solving.
Mathematics majors at Andrews learn and grow within one of the nation’s most internationally and ethnically diverse campuses, preparing them to serve humanity as citizens of the world and to excel in a global marketplace. As mathematics is a universal language, students learn to solve problems with peers across cultural lines and break down barriers to advance the kingdom of God.
Alternatives:
- Mathematical Studies major (if you want two majors but have a tight schedule and don’t plan to go to math graduate school)
- Add a Computing minor to the Statistics concentration (if you want to prepare for Data Science)
- Add a Business or Finance minor to the Statistics concentration (if you want to prepare for Actuarial Science)
- Add a Biology or Public Health minor to the Statistics concentration (if you want to prepare for Biostatistics)
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