Program Overview

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Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics

Develop Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills with Mathematics

Gain a broad introduction to mathematics with a strong foundation for careers in academia, business, and government, as well as for more advanced study at the graduate level with a BA in Mathematics from the University at Albany.

You will acquire advanced skills in quantitative methods, reasoning and problem-solving. Customize your program of study based on your career goals.

Program of Study

Complete required and elective courses across multiple mathematical domains, concentrating on four major subject areas – algebra, analysis, geometry and topology, and probability and statistics. Additional core classes focus on topics in calculus (including multivariable calculus), linear algebra, and proofs.

You can also apply for admission to the honors program to prepare you for graduate work in mathematics or a mathematics-related discipline.

Honors Program

The honors program is designed for the talented and committed student of mathematics in either the BA or the BS major. Successful completion of the program is excellent preparation for graduate work in mathematics or a mathematics-related discipline.

Required Courses

• Algebra and Calculus II or Calculus I
• Calculus II
• Calculus of Several Variables
• Linear Algebra
• Introduction to Proofs

One course in each of four areas:

• Algebra
• Analysis
• Geometry/Topology
• Probability/statistics

Electives

6 credits in Mathematics at the 200 level or above*

*Note: Only one of Probability for Statistics or Discrete Probability courses may be applied toward any major in mathematics.

Algebra

• Classical Algebra
• Elementary Abstract Algebra
• Introduction to Combinatorics
• Advanced Linear Algebra

Analysis

• Ordinary Differential Equations
• Basic Analysis
• Analysis for Applications I
• Vector Analysis
• Complex Variables for Applications
• Advanced Calculus I
• Advanced Calculus II

Geometry/Topology

• Transformation Geometry
• Elementary Topology
• Foundations of Geometry
• Introduction to Differential Geometry
• Introduction to Algebraic Topology

Probability/statistics

• Topics in Statistical Inference
• Probability for Statistics OR Discrete Probability*
• Statistics
• Probability and Statistics for Engineering and the Sciences
• Applied Stochastic Processes
• Continuous Probability and Mathematical Statistics

*Note: Only one of Probability for Statistics or Discrete Probability courses may be applied toward any major in mathematics.

Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Options

You can save time and money by beginning your graduate degree coursework while still enrolled as an undergraduate student. Up to 12 academic credits, billed at the undergraduate rate, will count towards both degrees – so you’ll complete your combined program in only 5 years and spend less than you would if you completed each program separately. Choose to combine your Mathematics undergraduate degree with the following graduate programs:

• MA in Mathematics: This master’s program studies complex statistics and data analysis to develop relative risk models, as well as tools and techniques for conducting research.
• MS in Data Science: This master’s program explores the theories and applications that enable machines to learn and make predictions, allowing you to process, analyze and present complex data to make better management and policy decisions.
• MS in Information Science: This ALA-accredited master's program covers a broad range of interdisciplinary topics related to library science, information processing, information management and data analysis.
• MS in Secondary Education: This New York State-approved teacher preparation program provides you with initial certification to teach a specific subject to students in grades 7-12 in New York State public schools.

Career Outcomes

A bachelor’s degree in math will prepare you for careers in major industries including education, finance, insurance, and pharmaceuticals. Common job titles, including ones attainable with a BA in math and additional educational and/or professional credentials, include:

• Secondary or postsecondary school math teacher
• Elementary math teacher
• Banking and collateral analyst
• Financial analyst
• Staff accountant
• Actuary
• Research scientist
• Statistician
• Management consultant
• Data scientist
• Software developer

Student Learning Objectives

• Construct proofs using techniques from logic such as proof by contradiction and/or specific techniques such as the principle of induction.
• Analyze and check correctness of mathematical arguments, and read mathematical text independently.
• Apply an advanced abstract mathematical idea to a concrete real-world problem (e.g., application of differential equations, or linear programming, or RSA or error correction codes).
• Write effectively using language appropriate for mathematical discourse.
• Use calculus to analyze and evaluate properties of real valued functions.