What is Mathematics?

Mathematics is the international language of science and technology. Much of the subject matter in engineering and the natural sciences, as well as some social sciences such as economics, is presented in mathematical terms. Mathematical and statistical techniques are vital in fields that usually are not considered mathematical, such as biology, psychology, and political science.

Some students come to mathematical sciences with the intention of teaching in high school or college or pursuing research in mathematics. Some are attracted to mathematics for its own sake, for the beauty, discipline, logic, and problem-solving challenges. Other students pursue mathematics in order to achieve deeper understanding in their own areas of study.

If you are interested in majoring in Mathematics, please contact a Department Undergraduate Advisor.

Career Opportunities

Mathematicians work in a number of different fields such as astronomy and space exploration, climate study, medicine and biology, national security, robotics, animation, insurance, computer science, risk management, systems analysis, market research, finance, database management, and statistics. Teaching math at the high school or collegiate levels is also a common career track. Some professions require additional study beyond a bachelor’s degree.

The fundamentals of mathematics underlie an endless number of processes in all types of businesses. For example, airlines schedule service and equipment based on past and predictive statistics, internet traffic is directed via mathematical algorithms, and insurance companies set prices based on mathematical analysis of risk. Career opportunities are very diverse for students with a degree in mathematics.

Is Mathematics Right for Me?

Mathematics is ideal for students who enjoy solving puzzles, who want to use mathematics to model the real world to answer questions and/or who want to understand the structure of mathematics. It requires strong abilities in logical reasoning and analysis and a natural curiosity about how mathematics can apply in an increasingly complex world.

Since mathematics courses build on each other, careful planning of when to take each course is required. Ideally, preparation will begin in high school. There are many ways to tailor your degree at UWM to match your interests.