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Why Major in Mathematics or Statistics

Many mathematics and statistics majors choose their major because they enjoy the subject, do well in the courses, appreciate its beauty, and/or see utility of the discipline. Others may wish to choose a mathematics or statistics major by asking:

What do the mathematics and statistics majors offer?

Mathematics and Statistics majors take courses that cover a broad collection of important topics in the discipline. Majors develop many transferrable skills that can be highly desirable in diverse careers. These skills include numeracy and quantitative reasoning, analytical reasoning, problem solving, critical thinking, and written communications.   

Both Mathematics and Statistics are popular as a second major or a minor as the acquired knowledge and developed skills support careers in many other fields. For those considering professional graduate studies, the skills developed by a mathematics or statistics major are assets.

Careers in mathematics and statistics

Mathematics and Statistics majors can find positions in government, nonprofits, industry, academics, education, and business. In many settings, mathematicians and statisticians often collaborate with scientists and engineers to analyze data and apply computational techniques to solve practical problems. Mathematicians often apply existing or develop new mathematical principles to analyze problems. Statisticians typically solve real-world challenges using data modeling and mathematical principles.  

Career options abound, and common careers include the following:

  • Actuary
  • Data Scientist
  • Computer Programmer
  • Financial Analyst
  • Operations Research Analyst
  • Statistician
  • Mathematician

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects mathematics jobs to grow much faster than the national average in the next decade. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that the median wage for statisticians was $103,300 in May 2024. Careers related to mathematics and statistics are consistently rated among the most job satisfaction.

Your goals, your major

The undergraduate programs in mathematics and statistics at the University of South ذكذكتسئµ emphasize the broad nature of modern mathematics and statistics and their close association with the real world. The programs are designed to prepare students for entry into graduate school or careers in industry or secondary education.

We offer the following degrees and concentrations.

  • Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics with concentrations in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and general mathematics.
  • Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with concentrations in data analytics & business intelligence and discrete mathematics and cryptography.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Statistics