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 outside of class?

At UB, your opportunities extend far outside of the classroom.

  • Research. Spend a summer (or a semester) working with UB faculty or on independent research project.
  • Internships. Build your professional network and get real-world experience.
  • Study abroad. Since math is typically the same around the globe, it’s fairly easy to spend a semester studying in another country.
  • Student clubs. Make friends and have fun in UB’s hundreds of student clubs, including the Undergraduate Math Club.
  • Teaching and tutoring. Students with top grades may be teaching assistants and tutors.
Internships
Study Abroad
Student Clubs

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 UB Teach website for a list of all available majors.

Who will I learn from?

In UB's math department, you'll find professors who truly enjoy meeting with students, answering questions and helping you throughout your time here. Because at UB, our faculty members are more than award-winning mathematicians—they're also award-winning teachers and mentors, having earned the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Myerson Award for mentoring and the student-nominated Milton Plesur Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Our faculty members are also specialists and researchers in a variety of areas, including (but certainly not limited to) abstract algebra, number theory, topology, ergodic theory, cryptography, population dynamics, fluid mechanics, and the science of networks (including the human brain). Many of them typically conduct research through grants with the National Science Foundation, as well other organizations such as the National Institutes of Health. 

Admissions

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Student Guide