Mathematics expresses its concepts in symbols and graphic representations within a framework of logical inference which has become the universal language for communicating technical knowledge. A major in mathematics is one of the finest courses of study for developing ability in analytical thinking. Combined with an appropriate concentration of application courses, a major in mathematics prepares the student for a wide range of career and educational opportunities. Companies in the computer, communications, and aerospace industries, employ many mathematics majors, as do oil companies, banks, insurance companies, consulting firms, manufacturing companies, utilities, research agencies, and almost every bureau and branch of the federal government. Students may also pursue graduate study in pure or applied mathematics, operations research, statistics, business, computing, and economics as well as many areas in the natural, life, and social sciences.
Mathematics can also be the basis of a teaching career at the secondary or college level.
A minor in mathematics is a valuable complement to most majors. This is especially true for majors in the natural sciences, and in the life and social sciences the necessity of mathematical sophistication is growing. A minor in mathematics significantly improves a student's employment potential. Mathematics students normally use the lab for computational and graphing support. A concentration of at least 12 credits in an application area other than mathematics.