Cultivate creativity and flexible thinking with the study of mathematics. The Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics is the perfect major for detail-oriented people who gravitate toward numbers, puzzles, technology, and patterns and want to combine their study of mathematics with another major.

PLNU’s Mathematics B.A. covers theoretical and applied mathematics to give you a deep understanding of mathematics’ uses in a variety of circumstances. This program will help you develop analytical skills that will be invaluable in many different career paths. 

PLNU offers a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. While the Mathematics B.S. is the most robust degree for those interested in studying mathematics, the Mathematics B.A. is the perfect degree for those who want the flexibility to double major, and pairs perfectly with programs such as computer science and chemistry. It also provides strong foundations for those who are pursuing pre-med.

The Department of Mathematical, Information, and Computer Sciences (MICS) is committed to working with you to help you discover who you are called to be. As a mathematics major at PLNU, you will be immersed in a curriculum that not only allows you to gain the broad knowledge of your discipline, but also to learn in a collaborative and supportive environment where you can develop the characteristics needed to make a positive impact on your community. 

At PLNU, our mathematics program focuses on growing three-valued assets:

• Analytical abilities
• Mathematical modeling
• Computation skills

For information about the courses required for the Mathematics, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

In our increasingly data-driven society, mathematics remains one of the most versatile and rigorous areas of study. A mathematics degree can open the door to a variety of careers across many desirable industries. From becoming a teacher to a software developer, the tools you learn in PLNU’s mathematics program will prepare you to make your mark as an educator or innovator in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field. 

What can you do with a mathematics degree?

PLNU mathematics alumni have found success in the workforce performing key responsibilities like mathematical model building at SPAWAR, quality assurance at Qualcomm, project management at Leidos, and data analysis at the CIA, just to name a few. Other alumni have gone on to medical school, graduate programs in mathematics and statistics, and teaching.

Some of the positions PLNU graduates currently hold:

Software Developer and Software Quality Assurance Analyst

Average annual salary: $133,080
Job growth outlook: 17% (Much faster than average) 

Software developers design and create computer applications or programs. Software developers also determine other requirements, such as security. They design the program and then work closely with programmers who write computer code. However, some developers write code themselves instead of giving instructions to programmers. Software quality assurance analysts and testers identify problems with applications or programs and report the defects. 

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Programming and coding knowledge
• Understanding of how to create test plans, scenarios, and procedures for new software
• Creativity and ingenuity for model and diagram making
• An understanding of designing and developing software

Financial and Investment Analyst

Average annual salary: $101,350
Job growth outlook: 6% (Faster than average)

Financial analysts guide businesses and individuals in decisions about expending money to attain profit and growth. Likewise, investment analysts have a similar role but with an emphasis on long-term investments and stocks. There are many different roles to take within the category of financial and investment analyst (financial risk specialists, fund managers, investment analysts, portfolio managers, Rating analysts, securities analysts, etc.) and many different clients looking for guidance with their money management.

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Thorough knowledge of investments and collections of investments or portfolios
• Analysis of current and historical financial data
• Keeping up with economic and business trends
• Open communication with company officials and clients 
• Prepare written reports

Financial Engineer

Average annual salary: $102,921
Job growth outlook: 6% (Faster than average) 

A Financial Engineer applies advanced mathematics, programming, and economic theory to design models that analyze risk, price financial instruments, and optimize investment strategies. They work in areas such as banking, hedge funds, fintech, or risk management—building tools and systems that support data-driven financial decision-making.

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Uses math and statistics to model market behavior and financial outcomes
• Writes code (often in Python, R, or C++) to develop financial algorithms and tools
• Applies principles of pricing, risk, and valuation to complex products
• Tackles analytical challenges with logic and precision
• Extracts insights from large datasets to inform strategies

Actuary

Average annual salary: $125,300
Job growth outlook: 21% (Much faster than average) 

Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to analyze the financial costs of potential events of risk and uncertainty. Most actuaries work for insurance companies. Actuaries need a bachelor’s degree and must take a series of exams to become certified professionals. An actuary plays an essential role in the insurance industry.

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Compilation of statistical data and other information for further analysis
• Expertise in estimating the probability and likely economic cost of unexpected events such as an accident or a natural disaster
• Ingenuity to design, test, and administer insurance policies, investments, and other business strategies
• Creativity and analysis to make charts, tables, and reports
• Ease of navigation with database software 

Mathematicians

Average annual salary: $117,680
Job growth outlook: 29% (Much faster than average)

A Mathematician uses advanced mathematical theories, models, and computational techniques to solve real-world problems in science, engineering, business, or technology. They work in academic research, government agencies, finance, or private industry—developing formulas, simulations, or algorithms to drive innovation and informed decision-making.

Necessary attributes and skills: 

• Breaks down complex problems to identify logical, data-driven solutions
• Applies expertise in areas like calculus, algebra, statistics, or discrete math
• Uses theoretical and applied methods to address practical challenges
• Utilizes computational tools and programming skills for modeling and analysis
• Ensures precision in proofs, calculations, and data interpretation

With a Mathematics B.A. from PLNU, you’ll be prepared in your future pursuits whether it be graduate school, a certification program, or educating students on the intricacies of the mathematics world. Not only will you be a more articulate, formulaic, and critically thinking individual, but you’ll also gain a robust understanding of how these skills can be utilized for understanding the manifestations of numbers and patterns in the world around you.

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.