Undergraduate Major in Mathematics
Mathematics plays a central role in modern society. It has long been an important tool in science and engineering, and is used increasingly in varied and sophisticated ways in the social sciences, the humanities and business. With expanding applications, many areas of mathematics from pure to applied have grown tremendously. This major offers a variety of courses that address these diverse applications of mathematics.
Mathematicians value clarity and originality of argument and the capacity to resolve challenging questions that originate either in applications of math, or within mathematics itself. Above all, mathematicians esteem the ability to formulate and apply insights that open new vistas. The curriculum in the mathematics major provides a solid foundation in several core branches of mathematics, including calculus, linear algebra, and algebra, and supports the development of analytical, problem-solving, communication and research skills. Students majoring in mathematics learn about its diverse applications and acquire an understanding of both the foundations and the frontiers of the discipline.
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Mathematics Major Goals & Curriculum
Program Goals
Graduates will be prepared to:
- Demonstrate proficiency with fundamental subjects in mathematics such as calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and probability theory
- Apply critical thinking in the construction of mathematical proofs and models
- Demonstrate problem-solving skills and techniques
- Understand connections between various areas of mathematics
- Effectively communicate mathematical ideas
- Recognize applications and relevance of mathematical ideas to other areas of science and the workplace
Curriculum
Choose from two degree programs for the mathematics major. The bachelor's degree requirements are 45 units total and include distribution, writing, and elective courses, and the major requirements.
Mathematics major requirements:
- MATH 220-A Single-Variable Differential Calculus (was MATH 220)*
- MATH 220-B Single-Variable Integral Calculus (was MATH 224)*
- MATH 226 Sequences and Series*
- MATH 230-A Multivariable Differential Calculus (was MATH 230)*
- MATH 230-B Multivariable Integral Calculus (was MATH 234)*
- MATH 240 Linear Algebra with Economics
- 7 300-level mathematics courses
*new courses effective Fall 2019. View course equivalencies and course placement for students prior to Fall 2019 here.
Undergraduate Mathematics Courses
Explore Undergraduate Mathematics Courses for descriptions, locations, and schedules. Classes are held on Northwestern's Evanston or downtown Chicago campuses, and meet once weekly in the evening or on Saturdays.Major in Mathematics Admission & Transfer Policy
Application to Northwestern University School of Professional Studies bachelor's degree programs is completed online. Once admitted, many students create a shorter path to degree completion by applying transfer credit. View detailed application instructions and transfer credit policies on the Admission & Transfer Policy page.
Mathematics Tuition & Financial Aid
The School of Professional Studies offers competitive tuition rates for undergraduate courses. The Tuition & Financial Aid page lists current per-course tuition rates in addition to financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
Registration for Mathematics
Registration for courses opens 8 to 10 weeks before each quarter and is accessed CAESAR, Northwestern's online student records system. View course registration timelines and instructions on the Registration Information page.
Career Options for Mathematics Majors
In addition to academic and teaching opportunities, graduates with mathematics degrees work in the private and public sector in such areas as insurance, banking, finance, information technology, engineering, urban planning and policy, the aerospace industry, and consulting. For details, see the Mathematics Career Options page.
Find out more about the Major in Mathematics
