Mathematics Discipline
- Chloe Harmon
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
A mathematics degree teaches students various problem-solving techniques and theorems, as well as how to apply them to real-world challenges. Unlike in high school-level courses, college math majors are not limited to one form of arithmetic. Instead, college math students take fundamental concepts and prove them with practical applications. They’ll also build a knowledge base around seemingly intangible questions, like, "What does it really mean to divide by zero?" Math courses have a high ratio of class time to outside project or lab time. Students will be tasked with focused, intensive coursework and solving challenging problem sets. That said, there is variation depending on which math major you choose.
Specific Mathematics Majors
Pure Mathematics: This track emphasizes mathematical theory and abstract concepts without a primary focus on practical applications.
Applied Mathematics: This branch focuses on using mathematical tools to solve practical problems in various fields.
Statistics: This major focuses on collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting numerical data.
Discrete Mathematics: This area deals with mathematical structures that are fundamentally separate or distinct, rather than continuous.
Actuarial Science: This specialization uses mathematical and statistical methods to assess and manage risk, often in the insurance and finance industries.
Undergraduate Sample Schedule for a Mathematics Major
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Best Colleges for a Mathematics Major
Stanford University
Princeton University
Harvard University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of California Berkeley
Classes to take in high school to prepare for a mathematics major
To prepare for a math major, high school students should take all available math courses, especially Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus. Other useful math classes include Statistics and Linear Algebra. Additionally, consider taking Computer Science and Physics courses, as they apply mathematical principles and develop critical thinking skills. Most successful applicants to competitive colleges have taken calculus by their senior year. Students should take honors or Advanced Placement (AP) courses when offered, to challenge themselves with a college level curriculum.
Popular Career Paths
Mathematician -> Conduct research and develop theories to expand human knowledge in mathematics and related fields.
Statistician -> Collect, analyze, and interpret complex data to identify trends and patterns for companies and organizations.
Actuary -> Use mathematical and financial theories to assess and manage risk, particularly in the insurance and finance industries.
Operations Research Analyst -> Develop models and analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and make decisions.
Financial Analyst -> Provide guidance on investment decisions, research financial markets, and analyze assets.
Accountant -> Examine financial records, identify financial opportunities and risks, and provide financial advice to individuals and businesses.
Economist -> Study the production and distribution of goods and services, analyzing financial data and economic trends.
Data Analyst -> Gather, process, and analyze data to help organizations understand their operations and make informed decisions.
Teacher/Educator -> Explain complex mathematical concepts to students at various levels, including K-12 and higher education.
Schooling you need to complete to be successful in the mathematics field
To be successful in the mathematics field, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree, which prepares you for entry-level positions, but a master's or doctoral degree is often required for advanced roles in private industry, research, and academia, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The specific level of education depends on your career goals, such as becoming a data scientist, mathematician, or professor.
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