Mathematics
Are you captivated by the beauty of patterns and intrigued by the inherent logic of the universe? If so, mathematics may be the perfect choice. By immersing yourself in mathematics, you can unlock the power to decipher the secrets of nature, develop technology, and comprehend the interconnectedness of the world around us. Mathematics underpins everything from encrypting messages and predicting climate change to medical imaging, machine learning and much more. Whether you dream of unraveling the mysteries of the universe or utilizing mathematical models to shape the future, a mathematics degree gives you the flexibility to make a meaningful impact.
What will I learn?
Your academic journey will encompass a range of classes in calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, mathematical proof and higher-level mathematics. Beyond that, you'll have the opportunity to tailor your studies by selecting a concentration that aligns with your specific interests.
- Computing and applied math: Your curriculum will include computer science and mathematical computing courses.
- Aspiring actuary: You’ll delve into probability, economics, finance and statistics.
- Pursuing a teaching career: You’ll take courses in the theory and practice of education alongside a diverse array of mathematical subjects.
Regardless of your concentration, you can expect to build a robust foundation in logic, proofs and the fundamental concepts that underpin comprehension of the world through mathematics.
What can I do with a mathematics degree?
Maximize airline travel efficiency. Teach high school calculus. Become a data scientist. A math degree gives you choices throughout your career. Our alumni have worked in a variety of fields, including accounting, appraising, banking, data processing and market research analysis.
As a math major, you might work for a bank, online retailer, insurance company, school, government agency or nearly any type of organization after you graduate. Here are just a few of your career choices:
- Actuary.
- Budget officer.
- Census Bureau analyst.
- Computer programmer.
- Computer systems analyst.
- Computer systems engineer.
- Cryptographer/Cryptanalyst.
- Data scientist/Data analyst.
- Econometrician.
- Efficiency expert.
- Engineering analyst.
- Environmental planner.
- Financial analyst.
- Fundraiser.
- Industrial R&D modeler/analyst.
- Information scientist.
- Mathematician.
- Numerical analyst.
- Purchasing agent.
- Quality control supervisor.
- Statistician.
- Teacher.
Want to be a teacher?
Be prepared to teach grades 5-12 by getting your bachelor's and master's in just five years through our UB Teach program.
- Save time and money.
- No need to apply to graduate school.
- Be eligible for New York State professional teaching certification.
Visit the department website (at the top of this page) for more details, or see the for a list of all available majors.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers | $87,060.00 | $41.86 | Rapid Growth |
| Mathematicians | $79,610.00 | $38.27 | |
| Statisticians | $107,440.00 | $51.65 | Rapid Growth |
| Data Scientists | $75,620.00 | $36.36 | Rapid Growth |
| Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other | $53,500.00 | $25.72 | Rapid Growth |
| Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $67,160.00 | $32.29 | |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $78,500.00 | N/A |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.