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Mathematics

Are you curious, analytical, and drawn to problem-solving? As a mathematics major at °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp, you’ll learn how to analyze, spot patterns, and model real-world problems while building skills that translate to careers in data science, finance, tech, research, education, and more.

Earn Your Math Degree from Oxy

In the °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp mathematics undergraduate program, you’ll study core areas like calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and analysis while learning how to write proofs, analyze data, and communicate complex ideas clearly. You’ll tackle challenging problems, work closely with faculty, and learn to reason both abstractly and practically.

As a math major at °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp, you might study game theory, model population growth, analyze networks, or explore cryptography. Faculty in the °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp Mathematics Department will support you with small classes, mentoring, and research opportunities. You’ll graduate with flexible, in-demand quantitative skills that prepare you for graduate study or careers in data analysis, actuarial science, software engineering, quantitative finance, education, and more.

 

What You’ll Learn as a Mathematics Major at °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp

Three °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp students assembling a Sierpinski octahedron

Connecting theory with the real world

The mathematics major at °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp helps you connect abstract ideas with real-world problems. You’ll learn how to think logically and construct clear mathematical arguments, work with data, models, and quantitative evidence, and communicate complex concepts to both technical and nontechnical audiences. 

You can shape your coursework to match your interests and goals, with options that might include:

  • Foundational mathematics: Explore topics like analysis, algebra, topology, and number theory that train you to think deeply and abstractly.
  • Mathematical modeling: Study how mathematics describes real systems in physics, biology, economics, and the social sciences.
  • Computational mathematics and data: Work with numerical methods, algorithms, and data-driven problem solving that connect closely to computer science and data science.

Your advisor will help you choose a path that fits your plans, whether you want to pursue graduate school or move directly into industry.

In the °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp Mathematics Department, you’ll have the chance to do research with faculty, on campus and beyond. 

Students:

  • Work with professors on projects in areas like topology, combinatorics, numerical analysis, and applied math.
  • Participate in summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) around the country.
  • Present work at undergraduate math conferences or campus research events.

You’ll get direct experience with how mathematicians ask questions, test ideas, and share results.

Mathematics pairs naturally with many other °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp majors and minors, including computer science, economics, physics, cognitive science, chemistry, and biology, for quantitatively focused policy and research work. Combining math with another field lets you apply your analytical skills in areas like data science, quantitative research, finance, or public policy.

Carly Venenciano headshot

Studying math does not mean one must become a mathematician; math is a great basis for anyone who loves problem-solving and collaboration. As a math major, I consider the ways in which my studies have provided me with skills that will be useful in any academic or professional field.

Carly Venenciano
Math major; Honolulu, Hawai'i
Group of oxy students sitting around a circular wooden table outdoors

Learning Mathematics in LA

Studying mathematics on the °µÍø±¬ÁÏapp campus in Los Angeles puts you at the intersection of tech, science, business, and culture. You’ll be a short drive from companies, labs, and schools where math skills are in high demand, and you’ll be able to connect coursework with internships and research across the region.

Meet Our Faculty

What Our Graduates Are Doing

Actuarial Analyst, State Farm

Taylor Ruehl
2024

Research Assistant, Federal Reserve Board

Miles Smith
2023

Private Equity Associate, GI Partners

Preston Chong
2022

PhD candidate in mathematics, UC-Riverside

Nora Manukyan
2024

Data engineer, ETNA TECH

Anqi Wu
2023

Master’s, Mathematics & Foundations of Computer Science, Oxford University

Nathan Hall
2024

Software Engineer, Amazon

Rowan Fitch
2021

PhD program in biostatistics, UC-San Diego

Michael Cheung
2016

Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Cal Poly Pomona

Emily Heath
2015

FAQs

Math majors from Oxy work in data science, tech, finance, education, government, and research. Many also go on to graduate school in math, statistics, computer science, or engineering.

No. The major works well for students who like problem-solving and want flexible options. Faculty advisers help you explore careers as you go.

Yes. Many students pair math with computer science, economics, physics, or other majors. The program is flexible enough to support double majors with planning.

Undergrads have strong access to research, from on-campus projects with faculty to national Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs). Many students present their work at conferences before they graduate.

You’ll have office hours, peer tutoring, and small classes that make it easy to ask for help early. Faculty work closely with students to keep them supported.

Contact Mathematics
Fowler Hall 305