by our College Data Analytics TeamIf you speak the language of numbers and theories, General Mathematics may be a great major for you. This major will allow you to work many different formulas, theories, quantities, logic, symbols, abstract concepts, and numbers.
It should not be surprising to you that your classes will involve a lot of math. This broad exposure will help you develop your strengths and discover your interests. You will have the opportunity to specialize in algebra and number theory. Here you will learn about the properties of integers and how to use equations, vectors, and matrices. Another are you will explore Euclidean (straight lines and angles) and non-Euclidean geometry (curved surfaces). Classes in analysis and function will teach you about dynamic systems and equations, functions and solutions.
Courses may vary depending on your college but some of the most common are algebra, geometry, history of mathematics, differential equations, statistics, calculus, number theory, and real analysis.
Concentrations in this major include: Algebra and Number Theory, Analysis and Functional Analysis, Geometry, and Topology and Foundations.
Mathematics was the 35th most popular major in the 2020-2021 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 30,202 degrees in this year alone. This 878 less than the prior year, a decrease of 2.9%.
This year's Best Mathematics Schools ranking compares 270 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom math rankings further below.
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
If you have a knack for mathematics and an interest in learning more, study online to achieve your career goals at Southern New Hampshire University. Our mathematics degree can help you enhance your mathematical abilities, including reasoning and problem-solving in three areas: analysis, algebra and statistics.
BA in Mathematics - Applied Mathematics
Put mathematical concepts to work to solve today's most complex real-world problems by studying applied mathematics with this specialized online bachelor's from Southern New Hampshire University.
Clearly, students should have a strong interest in math. You will spend many hours solving mathematical problems, memorizing formulas and working on proofs. Critical thinking skills are necessary in order to identify, analyze, and apply mathematic principles to the equations you are working on. The basic knowledge you gain in your classes will help you think creatively to devise new solutions to difficult problems.
You should be a self-motivated learner who can work independently. However, don't neglect interpersonal skills as well; they will come into play when completing group projects or working with partners.
Mathematics contains a lot of trial and error. You may get the answer to a problem wrong many times before you finally get the right answer. Persistence and dedication will aid you in your studies.
Although you will be mostly focused on math, writing is also an important skill to develop. Students should work on writing clearly and concisely to make complex issues easy to understand for the average reader. Writing skills will also aid you when applying for jobs.
New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. Once you obtain your degree, additional math certifications required to pursue a career in this field.
There are many different math degree levels. You can get anything from a in mathematics to the highest math degree, a . How long it takes to complete some common math degree levels is shown below.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A master's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to math, with approximately 37.4% of workers getting one. See the the most common levels of education for math workers below.
| Level of Education | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | 35.9% |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 28.7% |
| Doctoral Degree | 23.9% |
| Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | 5.3% |
| Post-Doctoral Training | 4.1% |
67.4% of math workers have at least a master's. The chart below shows what degree level those who work in mathematics have obtained.
The education level required is different depending on the math career you are seeking.
A degree in mathematics will allow you to have several different career paths. Some graduates become certified to teach high school math, or go on to become a math professor. You may also get your Master's degree in mathematics or statistics allowing you to become a professional statistician or mathematician.
Graduates who want to go straight into the career field find often find work in the financial industry or business. You could become an actuary analyzing financial costs of risks, or you could work as an operations research analyst. Graduates also find work as a financial advisor for a business or for individuals.
Want a job when you graduate with your math degree? Mathematics careers are expected to grow 8.6% between 2016 and 2026.
The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to mathematics.
| Occupation Name | Projected Jobs | Expected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| High School Teachers | 1,095,500 | 7.5% |
| Mathematical Science Professors | 66,600 | 9.4% |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 62,300 | 9.9% |
| Statisticians | 49,800 | 33.9% |
| Mathematicians | 4,000 | 29.0% |
Recently graduated mathematics students earned an average of $45,191 in 2019-2020. Earnings can range from as low as $23,239 to as high as $82,796. As you might expect, salaries for math graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
Salaries for mathematics graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers math grads often go into.
| Occupation Name | Median Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers | $139,680 |
| Mathematicians | $104,870 |
| Statisticians | $92,600 |
| Mathematical Science Professors | $87,140 |
| High School Teachers | $64,340 |
With over 2,681 different math degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased math school rankings to help you with this.
One of 4 majors within the Mathematics & Statistics area of study, Mathematics has other similar majors worth exploring.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| General Mathematics | 29,793 |
| Other Mathematics | 403 |
| Analysis & Functional Analysis | 4 |
| Topology & Foundations | 2 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Applied Mathematics | 11,107 |
| Statistics | 9,979 |
| Other Statistics | 644 |
| Applied Statistics | 464 |
