Mathematics, BS
Earn your BS through a strong and flexible program in both applied and theoretical mathematics.
BS majors will choose to concentrate in traditional pure mathematics, in applied mathematics, or in training for a career in actuarial mathematics. You will gain a solid grounding in mathematics and use computational tools where appropriate.
The primary difference between a BA and a BS is their general education and non-major requirements. The BS is more science focused while the BA grants students a broader liberal arts education. Students are encouraged to consider their academic and future career interests when deciding which to pursue, and should consult an advisor with any questions.
Program Highlights
- Students are encouraged to select an optional concentration in Actuarial Mathematics (ACTM), Applied Mathematics (AMT), or Mathematical Statistics (MTHS).
- Students who do not select a concentration study traditional mathematics.
Course Catalog
Review admission and course requirements for this degree:
Career Paths
Recent undergraduates have found jobs in a variety of fields, as Actuary, Operations Research Analysis, Data Analytics Expert, Software Developer, Math Teacher, Accountant, Financial Analyst, Web Developer, Statistician, Market Researcher, to name a few examples.
Organizations that typically hire Mathematics graduates include the U.S. Census Bureau, SAIC, Mitre, Google, NSA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NIST, TRW, EDS, CIGNA, ANSER, and many others. Many of our students move on to graduate school in mathematics, statistics, engineering and related fields.
Research Opportunities
There have been several research opportunities for undergraduate mathematics majors in recent years, through the GMU Undergraduate Apprenticeship Program, NSF-supported Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs, and NSF-supported CSUMS and EXTREEMS programs for research in computational and data-enabled mathematics. Additionally, students can intern at the Mason Experimental Geometry Lab working on experimental pure mathematics and visualization projects. Qualified students also have the option of writing an honors thesis in a variety of topics in pure and applied mathematics under the supervision of a mathematics faculty.
Concentrations
Students may choose to concentrate in traditional pure mathematics, in applied mathematics, or in training for a career in actuarial mathematics.
Traditional concentration
Classical training in analytic reasoning and mathematics with exposure to the natural sciences.
Concentration in Actuarial Mathematics
Students will receive training to become an actuary, with exposure to the natural sciences. Expertise in this field leads directly into a career as a practicing actuary with an insurance company, consulting firm, or in government employment.
Concentration in Applied Mathematics
Training in analytic reasoning along with computational skills, with exposure to the natural sciences. The concentration prepares numerical analysts able to deal with real world applications in science and engineering.
Concentration in Mathematical Statistics
Students will receive additional knowledge of probability and mathematical statistics. The concentration prepares data analysts able to deal with real world applications in science and engineering.