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2023 Mathematics Degree Guide

If you speak the language of numbers and theories, General Mathematics may be a great major for you. This major will allow you to work many different formulas, theories, quantities, logic, symbols, abstract concepts, and numbers.

It should not be surprising to you that your classes will involve a lot of math. This broad exposure will help you develop your strengths and discover your interests. You will have the opportunity to specialize in algebra and number theory. Here you will learn about the properties of integers and how to use equations, vectors, and matrices. Another are you will explore Euclidean (straight lines and angles) and non-Euclidean geometry (curved surfaces). Classes in analysis and function will teach you about dynamic systems and equations, functions and solutions.

Courses may vary depending on your college but some of the most common are algebra, geometry, history of mathematics, differential equations, statistics, calculus, number theory, and real analysis.

Concentrations in this major include: Algebra and Number Theory, Analysis and Functional Analysis, Geometry, and Topology and Foundations.

#35 Most Popular Major
30.2k Degrees Awarded
-2.9% Increase in Graduates

Mathematics was the 35th most popular major in the 2020-2021 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 30,202 degrees in this year alone. This 878 less than the prior year, a decrease of 2.9%.

This year's Best Mathematics Schools ranking compares 270 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Explore this or one of our many other custom math rankings further below.

2023 Best Colleges for Mathematics
2023 Overall Best Mathematics Colleges >

Best Mathematics Schools by Degree

Associate Degrees in Mathematics
Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics
Master's Degrees in Mathematics
Doctorate Degrees in Mathematics

Mathematics Degree Requirements

Clearly, students should have a strong interest in math. You will spend many hours solving mathematical problems, memorizing formulas and working on proofs. Critical thinking skills are necessary in order to identify, analyze, and apply mathematic principles to the equations you are working on. The basic knowledge you gain in your classes will help you think creatively to devise new solutions to difficult problems.

You should be a self-motivated learner who can work independently. However, don't neglect interpersonal skills as well; they will come into play when completing group projects or working with partners.

Mathematics contains a lot of trial and error. You may get the answer to a problem wrong many times before you finally get the right answer. Persistence and dedication will aid you in your studies.

Although you will be mostly focused on math, writing is also an important skill to develop. Students should work on writing clearly and concisely to make complex issues easy to understand for the average reader. Writing skills will also aid you when applying for jobs.

Math Degree Program Entry Requirements

New students will need to have completed high school or a GED program and each school will have their own minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test requirements. Once you obtain your degree, additional math certifications required to pursue a career in this field.

Types of Mathematics Degrees

There are many different math degree levels. You can get anything from a in mathematics to the highest math degree, a . How long it takes to complete some common math degree levels is shown below.

Degree Credit Requirements Typical Program Length
Associate Degree 60-70 credits 2 years
Bachelor’s Degree 120 credits 4 years
Master’s Degree 50-70 credits 1-3 years
Doctorate Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation At least 4 years

A master's degree is the most common level of education achieved by those in careers related to math, with approximately 37.4% of workers getting one. See the the most common levels of education for math workers below.

Level of Education Percentage of Workers
Master’s Degree 35.9%
Bachelor’s Degree 28.7%
Doctoral Degree 23.9%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate 5.3%
Post-Doctoral Training 4.1%

67.4% of math workers have at least a master's. The chart below shows what degree level those who work in mathematics have obtained.

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The education level required is different depending on the math career you are seeking.

Career Opportunities for A Degree In Math Graduate

Above Average Number of Jobs
$45.2k Average Starting Salary
9% Growth Job Outlook 2016-26

A degree in mathematics will allow you to have several different career paths. Some graduates become certified to teach high school math, or go on to become a math professor. You may also get your Master's degree in mathematics or statistics allowing you to become a professional statistician or mathematician.

Graduates who want to go straight into the career field find often find work in the financial industry or business. You could become an actuary analyzing financial costs of risks, or you could work as an operations research analyst. Graduates also find work as a financial advisor for a business or for individuals.

Solid Growth Projected for Math Careers

Want a job when you graduate with your math degree? Mathematics careers are expected to grow 8.6% between 2016 and 2026.

The following options are some of the most in-demand careers related to mathematics.

Occupation Name Projected Jobs Expected Growth
High School Teachers 1,095,500 7.5%
Mathematical Science Professors 66,600 9.4%
Natural Sciences Managers 62,300 9.9%
Statisticians 49,800 33.9%
Mathematicians 4,000 29.0%

Math Degree Salary Potential

Recently graduated mathematics students earned an average of $45,191 in 2019-2020. Earnings can range from as low as $23,239 to as high as $82,796. As you might expect, salaries for math graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.

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High Paying Careers for Math Majors

Salaries for mathematics graduates can vary widely by the occupation you choose as well. The following table shows the top highest paying careers math grads often go into.

Occupation Name Median Average Salary
Natural Sciences Managers $139,680
Mathematicians $104,870
Statisticians $92,600
Mathematical Science Professors $87,140
High School Teachers $64,340

Getting Your Mathematics Degree

With over 2,681 different math degree programs to choose from, finding the best fit for you can be a challenge. Fortunately you have come to the right place. We have analyzed all of these schools to come up with hundreds of unbiased math school rankings to help you with this.

One of 4 majors within the Mathematics & Statistics area of study, Mathematics has other similar majors worth exploring.

Math Focus Areas

Major Annual Graduates
General Mathematics 29,793
Other Mathematics 403
Analysis & Functional Analysis 4
Topology & Foundations 2

View All Math Concentrations >

Related Major Annual Graduates
Applied Mathematics 11,107
Statistics 9,979
Other Statistics 644
Applied Statistics 464

View All Math Related Majors >

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