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Mathematics, BA & BS

Explore problem-solving and prepare for diverse careers with a math major. Seattle University mathematics degrees open doors in education, engineering, medicine and more.

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About this Program

Mathematics Majors: Intellectual Exploration, Preparation for a Successful STEM Career

Mathematics is an essential tool in the modern world, as well as a fascinating and beautiful subject in its own right.

Math is all about solving problems. The skills you develop working on mathematical coursework will also develop your problem-solving abilities in other ways, including pattern spotting, visualizing, using logical reasoning and working systematically.

You’ll benefit from close connections with faculty and from practical, hands-on learning that is built into our programs at every level. No matter what career you choose, these talents will help you succeed for the rest of your life.

Academic Excellence on a Mission

Rooted in Jesuit and Catholic values, our academics teach more than technical and theoretical excellence. We help you develop lifelong intellectual, professional and personal skills to create a successful career and meaningful life.

You’ll see how to bring justice, equity and your unique interests to your work and impact others in a positive way.

Mathematics Degree at a Glance

Learn how this degree from the Department of Mathematics will contribute to your career goals. Then, explore course requirements and see how impactful a Seattle University math degree can be.

The Bachelor of Arts degree offers a flexible program for students who would like to add a second major or who plan to enter a professional school. Your academic journey will explore areas such as calculus, algebra, and statistics, fostering a well-rounded understanding. This degree not only hones your analytical and problem-solving skills but also allows for a broader exploration of interdisciplinary studies. You'll be equipped for diverse career paths, where your mathematical proficiency and interdisciplinary knowledge make you a sought-after candidate, contributing to various fields and fostering a versatile skill set.

The Bachelor of Science degree is designed for students who plan to pursue a scientific, industrial, or government career. You'll delve into a curriculum encompassing calculus, algebra, statistics, and mathematical modeling. This program cultivates strong analytical and problem-solving skills essential for roles in finance, technology, and research. Graduating with this degree positions you as a valuable asset in fields requiring quantitative expertise. Beyond immediate employment opportunities, this degree serves as a stepping stone for advanced studies and contributes to advancements in science and industry.

The BS degree has three tracks for students to choose from, depending on their career interests: general, applied math, and pure math.

General

Applied Math Specialization

Pure Math Specialization 

Add a minor in math and broaden your impact. To earn a minor, you’ll complete at least 30 credits in this area.

Add a minor in data science and diversify your skillset. To earn a minor, you’ll complete at least 30 credits in this area.

  • Possess breadth of mathematical knowledge. Students will demonstrate an understanding of foundational mathematics in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations.
  • Possess depth of mathematical knowledge. Building upon a solid foundation, students will demonstrate a depth of understanding in advanced mathematical topics.
  • Develop algorithms and use computation proficiently. Students will possess strong algorithmic reasoning skills and be able to analyze and solve a wide variety of mathematical and real-world problems either exactly or approximately. They will know when and how to use software or programming languages in their analysis of these problems.
  • Understand and write rigorous proofs for theorems. Students will be skilled in a variety of proof methods and have strong axiomatic reasoning skills. They will be able to apply these skills creatively to make persuasive logical arguments in various contexts.
  • Communicate mathematical ideas effectively in speech, writing, and collaborative groups. Students will use precise mathematical language and express results verbally and in writing. They will be capable of working collaboratively to frame and solve complex problems.

If you’re planning on attending law school in the future, consider our Bachelor/JD Accelerated 3+3 Program. This degree plan allows you to finish both a law degree and a bachelor’s degree in six years. For more information, visit the Bachelor/JD Accelerated 3+3 Program Admission page.

What You’ll Learn

Learn about the classes you’ll take as a student here.

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Top 25% in Science & Engineering

Seattle University ranks #40 in the nation —U.S. News & World Report, 2023

11:1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Small classes led by talented faculty to foster active learning, an SU hallmark.

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$112,110 Median Mathematician Salary

—U.S. News & World Report, Best Jobs 2022

Prepared for Successful & Purposeful Career

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Research Projects with Forward-Thinking Faculty

In our program, research isn’t just for graduate students. You’ll be able to collaborate with faculty researchers on projects that address contemporary problems. This real-world research prepares you for the best jobs, top graduate programs and postdoctoral training at internationally recognized institutions.

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Diverse, Global Community

Our Jesuit values mean we see the world through a global, justice-focused lens. Our strong commitment to diversity and small class sizes help create a forward-thinking, close-knit community where everyone can feel at home—and go on to thrive in a global workforce.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
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Making a Difference in Seattle and Beyond

Your equity-focused education includes a number of community outreach opportunities. You can make a positive impact through math-focused enrichment programs for middle-school students in our neighborhood and even globally through partnerships with communities in rural Africa.

Community Outreach

Mathematics degrees provide a great preparation for a variety of jobs. In the current job market, many employers are seeking applicants that have mathematical and problem-solving skills.

Our graduates pursue a variety of careers in a diverse set of industries including finance, insurance, software engineering and the sciences. 

Others continue their education through top graduate programs in mathematics, finance, statistics, data science and other disciplines.

Wherever your passion is focused, you’ll have the academic coursework, research opportunities and community support for your path toward making a difference.

See where some of our graduates work in Seattle’s world-leading industries:

  • Actuarial Systems Engineer at Northern Trust Retirement.
  • Data Technician and Programmer at Seattle Public Schools.
  • Foundation Administrator at the Laurel Foundation.
  • General Manager of Telecommunications at Western Wireless.
  • Instructor and Tutor at Bellevue Community College.
  • Investment Broker at Piper Jaffray.
  • Mathematician at Boeing Company.
  • Owner of a software development company.
  • Planner/Scheduler at Lockheed Martin Corp.
  • Retirement Plan Specialist at Watson Wyatt Worldwide.
  • Software Engineer at Bsquare.
  • Software Engineer at Eden Systems, Inc.
  • Teacher with Teach for America.
  • Technical Writer at Microsoft.
  • Trainer & Software Programmer Consultant.
  • Transportation Planner at Puget Sound Regional Council.
  • Unix Systems Administrator at AT&T Wireless.

If your career plan requires an advanced math degree, you can be confident that your math degree and research experience will make you competitive for top graduate programs. You’ll find our math graduates at:

  • University of Kansas.
  • University of Oregon.
  • University of Michigan.
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
  • University of Utah.
  • University of Washington.
  • Northeastern University.
  • University of Wisconsin.

From Our Alumni

Benjamin Ries-Roncalli

"The best part of the SU math department is how supportive the professors are. In my time here, I never met a professor that wasn't willing to sit down and patiently answer questions about research, homework or personal projects. Working on a project with Dr. Carter, I learned so much about conducting research and how this can be applied to my own projects. It gave me the confidence, skills and experience to continue engaging with and learning exciting new math outside of the classroom."

BS Applied Mathematics, '23

Featured Faculty

All Faculty & Staff

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