Mathematics, B.S.

Program Overview

Do you enjoy the challenge of solving puzzles and finding patterns? Do you like applying your knowledge to solve real problems in the physical world? If so, you should consider a major in mathematics. PLNU mathematics majors study theoretical and applied mathematics, so they have a deep understanding of the power of mathematics as a tool in a wide variety of circumstances.

Defined as the search for patterns in things that do not appear to be similar, mathematics gives results that are beautiful and incredibly applicable. Because of their analytical skills, mathematicians have a wide variety of careers open to them.

PLNU offers a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. The B.S. offers a more robust academic experience, providing you with the foundation you need to excel in graduate school or any number of careers that need experts in mathematics.

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 aims to help you develop the characteristics necessary to be an effective member of the communities where you work and live. As a graduate, you will be prepared to serve our complex world through your technical and professional abilities. All of this and more will be available to you in a collaborative and supportive environment of students and faculty alike.

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Course List

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

Course Information

Major Map

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

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Career Opportunities

A Mathematics B.S. will provide you with the foundation you need to excel in an advanced degree program or any number of careers that need experts in mathematics. These careers include actuarial science, bioinformatics, computer programming, data analysis, data mining, economics, financial planning, education, medicine, and more. With this degree, you’ll be equipped with the skills to succeed as an educator, programmer, or any other form of serving as a mathematician.

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

  • Analytical abilities
  • Mathematical modeling 
  • Computation skills

Job outlook for mathematics careers

Employment in careers related to a degree in mathematics is projected to increase. For software developers and analysts, (one of the most common careers PLNU alumni pursue with this degree), employment is projected to grow 22% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). 

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:

Cryptographer

2020 Median annual salary: $120,182

Cryptographers are responsible for creating security programs and systems using algorithms and ciphers to encrypt sensitive data. A cryptographer will need a good grasp of designing robust security systems that are not vulnerable to hacking. 

Necessary attributes and skills:

  • Up-to-date knowledge of IT Security hardware, software, and solutions
  • Up-to-date understanding of the source code programming languages
  • Practical experience using computer operating systems such as MS Windows
  • An analytical mind with the ability to create source code

Actuary

2020 Median annual salary: $111,030 

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 

Mathematician

2020 Median annual salary: $93,290

Mathematician is a broad title for someone who analyzes data and applies computational techniques to solve problems. The top employers of mathematicians are the federal government and scientific research and development companies. Mathematicians and statisticians may work on teams with engineers, scientists, and other specialists.

Necessary attributes and skills:

  • Apply mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, and other fields
  • Design surveys, experiments, or opinion polls to collect data 
  • Develop mathematical or statistical models 
  • Interpret data and communicate analyses
  • Use statistical software to analyze data and create visualizations to aid decision making in business

Software Developer and Software Quality Assurance Analyst

2020 Median annual salary: $110,140

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

With a Mathematics B.S. from PLNU, you’ll be prepared in your future pursuits whether it be graduate school, a certification program, or exploring and researching 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.

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