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.
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
School/College
College of Arts and Sciences
Next Steps
Interested in this major? Here's what you can do next:
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.
See descriptionMATH 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.
See descriptionMATH 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.
See descriptionMATH 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.
See descriptionMATH 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.
See descriptionMATH 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.
See descriptionView 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.
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Economics
- Financial Planning
- Business Administration
- Chemistry
- Spanish
- Data Science
We offer hands-on opportunities that give you the freedom to explore your passion through real-world work and prepare for a fulfilling career.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Cal Lutheran gave me a lot of valuable opportunities to be involved within the Mathematics department, such as being a tutor, researcher, and departmental assistant. Influential courses that I took in this program, like Real Analysis, solidified my decision to pursue a PhD in Pure Mathematics.
Luis Perez '20
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.
See descriptionStatisticians
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.
See descriptionActuaries
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.
See descriptionMathematicians
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.
See descriptionOperations 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.
See descriptionMarket 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.
See descriptionFinancial and Investment Analysts
Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses.
See descriptionNatural Sciences Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
See descriptionLooking 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
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.
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of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months
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