Department of Mathematical and Computational Science

Do you enjoy the feeling of success that comes from developing the correct solution to a complex math problem? If you are intrigued by using mathematical concepts, theories, and operations to solve real-world problems, earning a degree in mathematics may be right for you.

Choose from two bachelor's degrees in mathematics:

1. Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Mathematics
2. Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics

The general education, elective, core, and required courses you will complete as a math major differ depending on whether you choose the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science degree.

 What is the difference between these two options?

• The B.A. in mathematics provides more flexibility in the elective courses from which you can choose. It requires fewer math courses, allowing you to take more science and other courses of interest. You might choose this option if you want to teach in K-12 classrooms or double-major in math and another subject. 
• The B.S. in mathematics is focused on the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, and combinations. The emphasis is on logic, scientific inquiry, and numerical and data analysis, approximation, optimization, and decision-making. You might choose this option if you want to work in banking, finance, as an actuary, or in a technical field. 

We also offer a minor in math as well as concentration areas in actuarial science, applied computer science, applied mathematics, and statistics. 

Why choose mathematics at Marian?

Having a mathematics major, minor, or concentration is applicable for those who want careers in engineering, physics, and computer science. By studying math, you'll be introduced to the world of logic and reason. You'll learn skills that apply to all facets of your personal and professional life.

Mathematics is an ancient concept that was studied in Babylonian, Egyptian, Greek, Chinese, Hindu-Arabic, and other cultures. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the study of mathematics blossomed thanks to Galileo, Gauss, Descartes, Newton, and others.

During the 19th century, mathematics became increasingly abstract and, by the dawn of the 20th century, mathematics became a major profession, thanks in part to the work of mathematicians like Turing, Einstein, and von Neumann.

Today, the future of mathematics is nearly unlimited, thanks in part to the quantity and quality of data being produced and analyzed through computer and information technologies.

As a math major, you should be as interested in the "how" of problem-solving as the "why" of developing an accurate answer. 

• The undergraduate math program at Marian University offers the challenge, excitement, and satisfaction of solving problems through careful deduction and step-by-step analysis.

• We'll teach you to test your conclusions to ensure they reflect accurate data and sound logic, enabling you to develop strong critical thinking and reasoning skills.

If you love math, come and enjoy it with us! Our expert faculty will guide you both in and out of the classroom, whether it is discussing various approaches to a problem, offering suggestions or encouragement, and celebrating your successes. You'll discover a community of like-minded peers and a warm, welcoming campus community.

What career paths are available?

According to the United States Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for college graduates with mathematics degrees and training is strong. Here are just a few jobs held by math majors and the percentage increase in employment the BLS expects through 2024.

• Statisticians: 34 percent 
• Operations research analysts: 30 percent
• Mathematicians: 21 percent
• Computer systems analyst: 21 percent
• Market research analysts: 19 percent 
• Software developers: 17 percent
• Computer and information systems managers: 15 percent
• Financial analysts: 12 percent
• Accountants and auditors: 11 percent
• Database administrator: 11 percent