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Major, Minors and Options

Student doing math equations in class

A flexible degree with career opportunities

Undergraduates at OSU can pursue a Bachelors of Science in Mathematics or choose one of four specialized options within the degree program. Many of our mathematics majors are double majors, especially in other sciences or engineering.

The Department of Mathematics also offers minors in Mathematics and in Actuarial Science. The minor in Actuarial Science includes courses of interest in the Actuarial and Financial industries.

Official program requirements for all department programs, including the Mathematics major and its options, as well as the minors in Mathematics and in Actuarial Science, are listed in the OSU General Catalog. The sample program therein shows a possible path through the curriculum for students who are able to start MTH 251, Differential Calculus, in their first term.


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We are happy to talk with you about our programs. If you have questions about the mathematics undergraduate degrees, including the recent revisions, please email a mathematics advisor at UndergradInfo@math.oregonstate.edu.

Detailed information about these degrees can be found in the Undergraduate Handbook.

Mathematics Major

The mathematics major encompasses both theory and applications of mathematics. You will have the opportunity to study in a broad spectrum of fields ranging from areas in traditionally pure mathematics such as algebra, real analysis, topology, probability and geometry to applied mathematical areas such as computational models and methods, mathematical biology, statistics and actuarial mathematics.

Learn about the Mathematics Major 
Download: Math Degree Map (pdf)

Mathematics Minor

A mathematics minor will enable you to acquire an extensive knowledge of mathematical concepts and computational techniques to broaden your major area of study and enhance your career options. The rigorous and flexible minor program in mathematics is designed to accommodate the academic and professional or career goals of students with majors in chemistry, physics, life sciences and health professions as well as those from engineering, business and other disciplines.

Actuarial Science Minor

Actuaries employ high-level statistical analyses and apply technical and mathematical methods and skills in a variety of industries, from the calculation and analysis of pricing models and financial risk modeling to pension programs, housing markets and health insurance valuation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 22.5 percent employment growth for actuaries between 2016 and 2026.

Programmatic outcomes for the Mathematics Major, Mathematics Minor and Actuarial Science Minor

The following are the Mathematics Major, Mathematics Minor and Actuarial Science Minor Program Outcomes:

  • Demonstrate mathematical reasoning skills by reading, writing, and explaining formal definitions and theorems, and proofs.
  • Analyze mathematical problems by applying the theory and techniques from a variety of mathematical perspectives.
  • Use computational technology to support problem solving and mathematical understanding.
  • Use mathematical concepts and techniques to recognize, formulate and analyze questions from another discipline.
  • Communicate mathematics effectively.