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Mathematics

Compound your potential.

With an in-demand math degree and the analytical reasoning skills employers seek, the limit of career options does not exist.

Overview
Build a theoretical foundation

Mathematical theory will be at the core of your studies. You will explore the many branches of math including geometry, set theory, calculus and statistics. By comprehending foundational mathematical principles and becoming a creative problem-solver, you’ll have the traits to succeed in fields ranging from business to health.

Solve complex problems with modern tools

Using industry-standard programs like RStudio and Mathematica, you’ll tackle complex mathematical problems with simulations and modeling. Our interdisciplinary curriculum will also incorporate the tools of fields such as computer science, physics and economics into your studies, and give flexibility to add a major or minor in an area that supports your interests and career goals. Along the way, you’ll have the guidance of a diverse faculty, whose various areas of expertise and teaching styles are here to support a diverse cohort of students and help meet your unique needs.

Experience a STEM-focused liberal arts university

Cal Lutheran is committed to giving all students the opportunity to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math, and become well-rounded leaders in their fields. Our programs include:

  • McNair Scholars Program: Provides funding, research opportunities and support for first-generation or underrepresented college students.
  • ALLIES in STEM: Helps ensure the academic success of all students in STEM classes and majors.

At a Glance

Degree Type

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science

Department

Mathematics

School/College

College of Arts and Sciences

Next Steps

Interested in this major? Here's what you can do next:

The Curriculum

With challenging and relevant courses, outstanding faculty, small class sizes, and an emphasis on hands-on learning, the mathematics program will position you to succeed in your chosen career.

Degree requirements

Find out what it takes to earn a degree in mathematics and explore the courses.


Highlighted Courses

Get familiar with some of the courses you might take in this major.

MATH 241: Discrete Mathematics

Topics include set theory, number systems, the nature of proofs, recursion, algorithms, graph theory and problem solving. This course is required for computer science and computer information systems majors.

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MATH 261: Calculus III

Calculus III extends the concepts of calculus to a multivariable perspective. Topics such as functions, derivatives, integrals and various coordinate systems are used to explore change modeled by two or more variables. Vector algebra and vector fields are introduced to study the motion of objects. Students will use a computer algebra system to engage with material in the course.

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MATH 265: Differential Equations

Students will formulate differential equations to model phenomena, solve these equations when possible and analyze these equations when solutions are not possible. Students will study single variable differential equations and systems, and applications of these in areas such as physics, chemistry and ecology.

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MATH 320: Elementary Mathematical Analysis

An introduction to mathematical analysis emphasizing conjecture and proof. Content includes elementary logic and quantifiers, manipulations with sets, relations and functions, properties of the real number system, supremums and infimums, sequences and limits of sequences, and the topology of the real line. The course will introduce students to the concepts and techniques of mathematical proof.

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MATH 382: Number Theory

This course focuses on the properties of integers and the history of the discovery of these properties. Topics include fundamental theorems on divisibility, primes and congruences, as well as number-theoretical functions, Diophantine equations, quadratic reciprocity and Fermat's Last Theorem. This course will introduce students to the concepts and techniques of mathematical proof.

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MATH 420: Real Analysis

A study of the real number system, set theory, sequences, functions, continuity, differentiation and Riemann-Stieltjes integration, with an emphasis on developing the ability to communicate mathematically.

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View all required courses:


Recommended Minors

Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.


The Experience

We offer hands-on opportunities that give you the freedom to explore your passion through real-world work and prepare for a fulfilling career.

  • Extracurricular Activities

    As a mathematics student, you can pursue internships, conduct summer research with a faculty member, and participate in nationwide math competitions to present your work and network with others in related fields.

  • Real World Applications

    Apply mathematical concepts to the real-world problems that interest you. All students complete a capstone project investigating a topic of their choice and can showcase their research and communication skills at annual conferences, such as the Student Research Symposium and Festival of Scholars at Cal Lutheran.

  • Student Clubs

    The Math Club allows math majors, math minors, and students interested in math to socialize, enjoy planned activities, and encourages attendance to Cal Lutheran math seminars and local conferences.

Student photo

Discrete Math was the class that really opened my eyes to a part of math I never knew existed. Given a formula, or some statement like, ‘an even number plus an even number is always an even number,’ we actually learned how to outline exactly why these formulas worked or why these statements were true. This idea, that you could figure out exactly why something works, really got me excited about the full scope of what one could do with enough knowledge of mathematics.

George Nasr '16

Career Paths

With our bachelor of science degree, you’ll be able to enter graduate programs in mathematics, engineering, physics, and computer science. With our bachelor of arts degree, you’ll be ready to pursue further study in actuarial science, business, education, finance and the natural sciences. If you want to become a teacher, you may consider our mathematics for teaching program, approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.


Potential Careers

Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to mathematical concepts, statistics, and actuarial science and to the application of original and standardized mathematical techniques in solving specific problems and situations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

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Statisticians

Develop or apply mathematical or statistical theory and methods to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize numerical data to provide usable information. May specialize in fields such as biostatistics, agricultural statistics, business statistics, or economic statistics. Includes mathematical and survey statisticians.

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Actuaries

Analyze statistical data, such as mortality, accident, sickness, disability, and retirement rates and construct probability tables to forecast risk and liability for payment of future benefits. May ascertain insurance rates required and cash reserves necessary to ensure payment of future benefits.

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Mathematicians

Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.

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Operations Research Analysts

Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.

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Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists

Research conditions in local, regional, national, or online markets. Gather information to determine potential sales of a product or service, or plan a marketing or advertising campaign. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. May employ search marketing tactics, analyze web metrics, and develop recommendations to increase search engine ranking and visibility to target markets.

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Financial and Investment Analysts

Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses.

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Natural Sciences Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.

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Looking for more career paths? Search these related areas to discover more options.

Employers

Some of the organizations our graduates work for include:

  • Aerospace Corporation
  • Amazon
  • Conejo Valley Unified School District
  • Cydcor
  • De Novo Software
  • Dept. of Water and Power, LA
  • Kaiser
  • DreamWorks Animation
  • Microsoft
  • Motor Vehicle Software Company
  • NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratories
  • Oxnard College
  • SmithGeiger
  • Synergy Academies

Graduate Schools

Our alumni have pursued advanced degrees at:

  • Arizona State University
  • Azusa Pacific University
  • Boise State University
  • California Lutheran University
  • CA Polytechnic Univ., San Luis Obispo
  • California State Univ., Channel Islands
  • Cal Poly Pomona
  • Oregon State University
  • San Francisco State University
  • Sonoma State University
  • Texas A&M University
  • University of Alaska
  • University of California, Santa Cruz
  • University of Nebraska
Brycen Arnold
I chose my major because mathematics was something I have always been interested in and wanted to know more about. The major has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and make connections with the mathematics I learned in high school. My aspiration is to become a mathematics teacher to middle or high school students.

Brycen Arnold '23

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Some occupations listed above may require a related graduate degree.

How We Prepare You for Success

We have 20,000+ employer contacts for jobs and internships, with over 200 listings posted each week.

Our excellent career counselors in the Career Services center will get in touch with you during your very first term on campus. They offer over 50 workshops each year on resume writing, interviewing, salary negotiations, applying to graduate schools, and other critical skills to help you begin your career successfully.

After you graduate from Cal Lutheran, you receive free access to Career Services for life, as a valued member of our alumni family.

Learn more about career outcomes

of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months

Cost & Financial Aid

We work with students and families to make sure everyone who is admitted to Cal Lutheran can afford it.


Tuition & Fees

You and your family might have questions about how you’ll cover the costs of college. We can tell you this — it costs less than you think.

Read our financial aid guide

Scholarships & Grants

We offer a range of awards based on academic merit and financial need. This is money that does not need to be repaid.

View scholarships and grants

Financial Aid

If you're new to the financial aid process, you probably have a lot of questions. But don't worry — we're here to help guide you all the way.

Learn about financial aid

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