A mathematics degree offers a dynamic and diverse academic path that can unlock numerous prospects for students. Engaging in mathematics enhances problem-solving abilities, equipping individuals with versatile skills applicable to various subjects and a wide range of professional positions.
You can distinguish yourself as a math scholar by earning a mathematics degree from one of the best math undergraduate colleges in the world. Additionally, math majors work as data scientists, actuaries, risk managers, accountants, and math teachers. Mathematics is one of the most adaptable majors because a bachelor’s degree from a top program qualifies a candidate for entry-level positions in the majority of fields.
Given the large number of options, picking the best math undergraduate colleges can be challenging. To save you time and narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of the best 15 math undergraduate colleges in the world.
Table of contents
- Who Is A Mathematician?
- Are Mathematicians In High Demand?
- What Can I Do With A Degree In Mathematics?
- How To Become A Mathematician In 2024: Education and Entry Requirements
- 15 Best Math Undergraduate Colleges In The World 2024
- How Much Does A Mathematician Make?
- Can I Get A Math Degree Online?
- FAQs On Best Math Undergraduate Colleges
- Conclusion
- References
Who Is A Mathematician?
A mathematician is a person who specializes in the field of mathematics. It is a broad and diverse discipline that involves the study of numbers, quantities, shapes, structures, patterns, and the relationships between them. Mathematicians engage in various activities related to the exploration, development, and application of mathematical principles and theories.
Mathematicians typically work on solving mathematical problems, proving theorems, conducting research, and exploring mathematical concepts. They use logical reasoning, critical thinking, and mathematical techniques to understand and describe phenomena in the physical world and abstract mathematical spaces.
Mathematicians are knowledgeable in advanced mathematical ideas and use them in a variety of fields, including:
- Engineering
- Construction
- Accounting
- Finance
- Education
To master mathematics, one must engage in considerable study and training. Mathematicians can work in academia, where they teach mathematics and conduct research at universities and colleges. They can also be employed in various industries, such as finance, engineering, computer science, and data analysis, where their mathematical expertise is essential for solving real-world problems. Additionally, mathematicians may work for government agencies, research institutions, or as independent consultants.
Are Mathematicians In High Demand?
According to data on BLS, the overall employment of mathematicians and statisticians is projected to grow 30 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 3,500 openings for mathematicians and statisticians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
However, it is assumed that if you are a graduate of one of the top mathematics undergraduate colleges, you can solve complex issues and maintain such problem-solving abilities in a variety of contexts.
What Can I Do With A Degree In Mathematics?
A degree in mathematics can open up a wide range of career opportunities in various fields. Mathematics is a versatile and highly valued discipline that equips individuals with strong problem-solving, analytical, and quantitative skills. Here are some career options and fields you can explore with a degree in mathematics:
- Academia: With a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, you can teach mathematics at the high school level. If you pursue graduate studies (a master’s or Ph.D.), you can become a university or college professor, conducting research and teaching advanced mathematics courses.
- Actuarial Science: Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in the insurance and finance industries. They analyze data to help companies make informed decisions regarding pricing, investments, and risk management.
- Finance and Banking: Mathematicians are in demand in the finance sector for their expertise in quantitative analysis. You can work as a financial analyst, investment banker, risk analyst, or quantitative analyst (quant) in hedge funds or asset management firms.
- Data Science and Analytics: Mathematics is a fundamental skill in the field of data science. Data scientists and analysts use mathematical modeling, statistics, and algorithms to extract insights from data and make data-driven decisions.
- Computer Science and Software Development: Mathematics is essential in computer science. You can work as a software engineer, focusing on areas like algorithm development, cryptography, or artificial intelligence.
- Engineering: Engineers often use mathematics in designing and analyzing systems and structures. Fields like civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering benefit from a strong mathematical foundation.
- Operations Research: Mathematicians in operations research use optimization and modeling techniques to solve complex problems in logistics, supply chain management, and decision-making for businesses and organizations.
- Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology: The emerging field of blockchain technology relies heavily on mathematical principles for secure transactions and data integrity. Mathematicians can work in the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry.
- Statistics and Data Analysis: Statisticians gather, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses and researchers make informed decisions. They are employed in various industries, including healthcare, government, and marketing.
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How To Become A Mathematician In 2024: Education and Entry Requirements
You can discover new ideas and gain a basic understanding of mathematics by studying it. The traditional course of study for mathematicians comprises advanced studies as well as specialized training for the field they choose to work in.
The typical educational prerequisites for a mathematician are as follows:
Bachelor’s degree
A mathematician must hold a college degree to work in engineering, physics, finance, or other general scientific areas. A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to complete, and it is a requirement for programs leading to a master’s or doctoral degree. After completing a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or data analysis, students can sit for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Their ability to reason and knowledge in various subjects, including science and mathematics, are evaluated on the GRE. Students who complete their coursework successfully can enroll in graduate school.
Graduate degree
A master’s degree is necessary for the majority of math-related occupations, including those in education, high-level finance, and data analysis. A master’s degree demonstrates subject-matter expertise. Because science concepts are so complicated, this is crucial for math. Depending on the program and the number of classes, graduate programs can last two to three years. Students can pursue a doctoral degree after completing their program, which can take up to eight years to accomplish.
Industry training
After earning an advanced degree, mathematicians often work in their field and undergo specialized training. A mathematician in banking, for instance, could need instruction in analytics software or other applications, but a mathematician in engineering might need instruction in safety procedures for construction sites. The duration of industry training can range from a few weeks to many months, and it is usually ongoing as the mathematician advances along their chosen career path. To learn more about mathematics or to develop specialized mathematical abilities for their sector, mathematicians can also participate in online training sessions, seminars, and conferences.
15 Best Math Undergraduate Colleges In The World 2024
Here is a list of some universities that are historically well-regarded for their undergraduate mathematics programs around the world
1. California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, California, United States
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech), often referred to simply as “Caltech,” is renowned for its strong mathematics department. Their mathematics department is known for its excellence in both research and teaching.
Throop University was Caltech’s previous name until 1920 when it adopted its current one. Caltech, committed to advancing knowledge through research and instruction, has six academic divisions and a student-to-faculty ratio of three to one for its more than 3,000 yearly registrants.
The undergraduate mathematics program at Caltech, one of the Best Math Undergraduate Colleges in the World, requires coursework in mathematical writing, geometry, and topology. The program promotes analytical thinking, problem-solving, pattern recognition, and concrete investigative skills.
2. Columbia University
New York, New York, United States
Columbia University was founded in 1754 as King’s College and is one of the oldest universities in the United States. It was renamed Columbia College in 1784 and later became Columbia University in 1896. The university has a rich history and has been a hub for academic and intellectual excellence for centuries.
The Department of Mathematics at Columbia University offers a mathematics undergraduate degree that encourages both theoretical and practical mathematical abilities. To prepare for an advanced and multidisciplinary curriculum, students take calculus, linear algebra, and mathematical analysis subjects.
Columbia’s Department of Mathematics boasts a distinguished faculty comprising accomplished mathematicians with expertise in various mathematical disciplines. These faculty members are often involved in cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of mathematics.
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3. ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
Zurich, Switzerland
ETH Zurich (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich), often referred to as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in English, is one of Switzerland’s most prestigious and globally recognized universities
Their mathematics programs offer a 180-credit bachelor’s degree, placing them third on this list of the Best Math Undergraduate Colleges in the World. During the first two years, students finish their foundational math, physics, and computer science courses. As students finish their bachelor’s degree thesis projects, the third year of the program emphasizes specialized areas of mathematics.
Fluency in the German language is a prerequisite for admission to ETH Zurich since German serves as the primary language of instruction at the university.
4. Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
Next on our list of the Best Math Undergraduate Colleges in the World is Harvard University, another highly recognized institution. The institution, which was founded in 1636, enrolls more than 36,000 students overall each year in its undergraduate, graduate, and extension programs.
The Harvard University Mathematics Department confers both a bachelor’s and a doctoral degree in the subject. Students majoring in mathematics take upper-level courses, beginning courses, and mandatory seminars. The curriculum offers specializations in secondary disciplines, general mathematics, mathematics education, and collaborative concentrations with other departments.
5. Imperial College London
London, United Kingdom
Imperial University was established in 1907 through the merger of the Royal College of Science, the Royal School of Mines, and the City & Guilds College. It enrolls 17,000 students a year and provides more than 250 undergraduate and graduate programs.
At Imperial, undergraduate math students can complete their bachelor’s degrees in two years. Mathematics, pure mathematics, mathematics with applied mathematics/mathematics physics, mathematics with statistics, and mathematics with statistics for finance are some of the areas of specialty.
During the first year of the curriculum, calculus, algebra, and statistics are required of all mathematics students. Depending on the area of emphasis, the second and third years of the degree differ.
6. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, Pennsylvania, United States
IUP runs three associate campuses in addition to its main campus, and it offers about 12,000 students online learning options yearly. IUP, which was founded in 1875, presently provides more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs.
The Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at IUP equips students with the essential tools for data organization and analysis, alongside offering a solid theoretical foundation in these subjects to enhance their comprehension.
In a nurturing and encouraging setting, the department provides courses that will both stimulate and captivate students passionate about mathematics and/or computer science.
The practical skills acquired in the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences have excellent applicability in the professional sphere. Graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of career paths in both public and private sectors, encompassing fields such as engineering, economics, information technology, and education.
7. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
MIT was founded in 1861 and has since become one of the leading institutions of higher education globally. It has a rich history of innovation and scientific advancement.
MIT’s Department of Mathematics is globally renowned and stands as one of the most robust in the world, encompassing a wide array of disciplines. These include both classical domains of pure mathematics like analysis, algebra, geometry, and topology, as well as applied mathematics areas such as combinatorics, computational biology, fluid dynamics, theoretical computer science, and data mathematics.
Within the Department of Mathematics, students have the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with concentrations available in applied mathematics, pure mathematics, or general mathematics.
Additionally, the department offers a specialized program known as the Mathematics with Computer Science degree, designed for students interested in the intersection of mathematics and theoretical computer science, offering a comprehensive undergraduate education in both areas.
8. National University of Singapore
Singapore
NUS, Singapore’s national research university, was established in 1905. NUS began with just 23 students in its first class and today enrolls more than 42,000 undergraduate and graduate students yearly. NUS is home to 30 research institutes and centers as well as 17 academic schools.
Undergraduate primary and secondary majors in applied mathematics, mathematics for finance, and data analysis are among the university’s mathematics offerings. Additionally, students might double major in economics or computer science and mathematics.
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9. New York University
New York, United States
Another of the best math undergraduate colleges In the world is New York University. The Department of Mathematics operates within the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, which functions as an autonomous unit within New York University. Situated in Warren Weaver Hall, at the center of New York University’s Washington Square campus, it holds a distinguished position among the world’s leading mathematics departments. According to rankings, it is highly regarded, being ranked as the fourth-best in the United States and the ninth-best globally in the Shanghai rankings, and the sixth-best in the United States and the eighth-best in the world according to the QS rankings.
Programs in mathematics for undergraduates cover the subject alone, mathematics and physics, and mathematics and computer science.
10. Paris Sciences et Lettres University
Paris, France
PSL was established in 2010 as a result of the joining of many educational institutions in Paris’ Latin Quarter. PSL, which received its official university status in 2019, is home to more than 17,000 students and close to 3,000 researchers each year.
Within PSL, basic and applied mathematics are integrated across diverse settings, ranging from dedicated mathematics laboratories to collaborative teams operating in non-mathematics-focused research environments. The overarching objective of this program is to foster closer collaboration among these diverse teams and research entities, thereby enabling PSL to showcase its strong position in the field of mathematics and assert itself proudly among the leading mathematical institutions in Paris—a city renowned as the global epicenter of mathematical excellence, both in terms of quality and quantity
11. Pennsylvania State University
University Park, Pennsylvania, United States
With 24 campuses and a virtual World Campus, Penn State is the largest public university in Pennsylvania. Penn State has more than 100,000 students and provides more than 100 graduate and professional programs in addition to about 400 undergraduate degrees and certificates.
Pennsylvania State University offers two degrees in mathematics: the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science. Both programs have a common core of mathematics courses; both programs prepare students for graduate work in mathematics. In addition, the Bachelor of Arts degree is oriented toward applications of mathematics in the arts and the humanities. The Bachelor of Science degree has a number of options. These options are oriented toward actuarial science, applied and industrial, computational mathematics, graduate study, and systems analysis.
The numerous campuses of Penn State all provide undergraduate mathematics programs. Students can obtain a Bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts in mathematics at the University Park site. Core mathematics courses are a part of both curricula and help students get ready for graduate school or the workforce.
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12. Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, United States
Princeton University is a prestigious Ivy League research university located in Princeton, New Jersey, United States. The University was founded in 1746 as the College of New Jersey, making it one of the oldest higher education institutions in the United States. It was later renamed Princeton University in 1896.
The mathematics department at Princeton provides both a Ph.D. program and a bachelor of arts degree. Students must have a prior understanding of calculus, linear algebra, and mathematical theory to declare a major in mathematics as an undergraduate.
Through eight upper-level courses in real analysis, complex analysis, algebra, and geometry or topology, math majors expand upon their fundamental knowledge of mathematical arguments, procedures, and proofs. Students can examine statistics, finance, computer science, or related subjects in elective courses.
13. Saint Francis University
Loretto, Pennsylvania, United States
Saint Francis University, as one of the earliest Catholic Franciscan institutions in the United States, places a strong emphasis on values such as faith, generosity, respect, learning, and joy within its campus community. The university offers a diverse array of over 50 academic programs.
Saint Francis University provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to pursue both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics. These programs offer various concentration options, including applied mathematics, actuarial science, secondary teaching, secondary/special education, and computer science.
In addition to their major, students have the option to minor in quantitative techniques or applied mathematics. All undergraduate mathematics programs require foundational courses in calculus, analytical geometry, and linear algebra. Bachelor of Science students further delve into advanced topics like probability, abstract algebra, and real analysis, while Bachelor of Arts students explore the connections between mathematics and the arts and humanities.
14. Stanford University
Stanford, California, United States
Stanford University is a prestigious private research university located in Stanford, California, USA. It is one of the world’s leading institutions of higher education and is renowned for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and beautiful campus.
The undergraduate degree in mathematics, which involves 64 credits of coursework, is one of Stanford’s 65 undergraduate majors. Students complete 15 credits of elective coursework in addition to sequence studies in single-variable and multivariable calculus, allowing them to concentrate on particular academic interests. The options for focus areas in mathematics include theoretical, applied, and pure mathematics.
With a judicious choice of electives, the mathematics curriculum at Stanford University can prepare you for many careers. The department is committed to providing its majors with a solid and broad-based education in mathematics.
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15. Susquehanna University
Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, United States
Susquehanna University is the last institution on this ranking of the best math undergraduate colleges in the world. SU was founded in 1858 as the Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Missionary Institute. SU attained university status in the 1890s and presently provides more than 100 academic programs to undergraduate students.
In preparation for professions in engineering, computer science, and information technology, SU math students understand the practical applications of the subject. Calculus, algebra, and discrete structures are necessary for the 55–58 credits that make up the mathematics bachelor’s degree.
How Much Does A Mathematician Make?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) claims that mathematicians have a very bright employment future. Furthermore, there will be more positions over the next ten years that require a high level of mathematical and statistical expertise.
The median annual wage for mathematicians was $112,110 in May 2022. The term “median wage” signifies that exactly half of the professionals in this field earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. Among mathematicians, the lowest-earning 10 percent made under $57,680, whereas the top-earning 10 percent earned over $171,540.
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Can I Get A Math Degree Online?
Many universities and colleges offer online programs in mathematics at various levels, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and even Ph.D. programs. These online programs provide flexibility for students who may not be able to attend traditional on-campus classes due to work, family, or other commitments.
If you must enroll in an online college, here are some key points to consider when pursuing an online math degree:
- Accreditation: It’s crucial to choose an online program from a reputable institution that is accredited. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain academic standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions.
- Course Delivery: Online math programs typically use a combination of video lectures, online assignments, discussion forums, and virtual classrooms. Make sure you have access to the necessary technology and a reliable internet connection to participate effectively.
- Interactivity: Look for programs that offer opportunities for interaction with professors and fellow students, as math can be challenging, and having support and collaboration can be valuable.
- Flexibility: Online programs often allow you to study at your own pace and on your schedule, which can be beneficial if you have other commitments.
- Math Software: Depending on the program, you may need access to specialized math software for coursework. Check if the program provides access to these tools or if you need to obtain them separately.
Here’s a list of the 10 best online math schools in the world:
- Mayville State University
- Mercy College
- Indiana University East
- Ottawa University
- The University of Illinois at Springfield
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Thomas Edison State University
- Wilmington University
- Southern New Hampshire University Online
- University of North Dakota
FAQs On Best Math Undergraduate Colleges
If you have a genuine interest and passion for mathematics, studying it can be incredibly rewarding. Math majors often find joy in solving complex problems, exploring abstract concepts, and discovering mathematical patterns. A math major can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Mathematicians are in demand in various industries, including finance, technology, data science, engineering, research, and academia.
Math helps us have better problem-solving skills. Comprehending mathematical principles extends beyond mere numerical intuition; it enables us to discern the routes toward resolving problems. Before identifying the optimal approach to address equations and word problems, it’s essential to analyze them thoroughly.
While a BA in math focuses more on humanities courses, a BS in math has more prerequisites in the scientific and social sciences. While many universities offer BAs in math for potential math teachers, a BS in math best qualifies majors for graduate-level study or math-related employment.
Conclusion
The pursuit of a mathematics degree is a remarkable journey that can lead to endless opportunities and intellectual fulfillment. Choosing the right institution to embark on this journey is crucial, and the 15 best math undergraduate colleges highlighted in this post represent some of the finest institutions across the globe. Whether you aspire to be a mathematician, a data scientist, an engineer, or pursue a wide array of careers, these colleges provide a strong foundation and a vibrant learning environment to nurture your passion for mathematics.
References
- collegefactual.com – 2023 Best Mathematics Schools
- bestvalueschools.com – 15 Best Value Small Colleges for a Math Degree
- research.com – Best Mathematics Universities in the World 2023
