Mathematics

The language of nature.

Major in Mathematics

Mathematics is the language of patterns, from modeling epidemics and finance to powering computer graphics and data science. Math majors learn to reason rigorously, solve complex problems, and communicate clearly, all skills valued in graduate study and across industries like technology, education, analytics, and research.

Students majoring in Mathematics pursue careers in teaching, business and finance, tech, government, and academia. Whether building quantitative foundations for other STEM fields or exploring new frontiers in pure and applied math, our graduates are prepared for today's most analytical careers.

Why Study Mathematics at MSU Texas?

The Department of Mathematics provides breadth and depth in modern mathematics with small classes, individualized attention, and opportunities to engage in undergraduate research, tutoring, and outreach. A strong liberal-arts foundation complements rigorous mathematical training, preparing graduates for graduate school and mathematics-related careers including the teaching profession.

Mathematics Degrees: Program & Requirements

Each year when the Academic Catalog is published, we release an updated degree plan. You will use this plan to chart your academic course toward earning your degree. You will keep and follow this plan throughout your tenure at MSU Texas. We have many degree options, listed below in more detail.

Mathematics in the MSU Texas Catalog

BA in Mathematics

  • 36 hours in Mathematics, beginning with Calculus I,
  • Seven credits of Computer Science, and
  • A minor of at least 18 hours, wihere at least six are advanced

BS in Mathematics

  • 36 hours in Mathematics, beginning with Calculus I,
  • Seven credits of Computer Science,
  • A minor of at least 18 hours, wihere at least six are advanced, and
  • At least four laboratory science courses, where you have two of each in two different science labs

BS in Mathematics with 7-12 Math Certification

  • 32 hours in Mathematics, beginning with Calculus I
  • 24 hours in related coursework, and
  • 21 hours of professioal education courses, offered jointly with the West College of Education & Professional Studies

Double Major in Mathematics

  • For students in another primary major
  • Requires 30 hours in Mathematics, beginning with Calculus I

What Can I Do With a Mathematics Degree?

Career paths include:
  • Teaching (middle/secondary)
  • Actuary
  • Data/Business Analyst
  • Market Research
  • Statistician
  • Operations Research
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Software/Tech Roles
  • Resource Manager
  • Investment & Risk Management
  • Graduate Study in Math, Stats, Data Science, or Education

Undergraduate Research & Faculty Interests

Students can participate in applied projects, and faculty-mentored research across areas such as: algebra & ring theory, real/functional analysis, topology, statistics, mathematical modeling, control theory, applied polymer modeling, machine learning, financial mathematics, crystallography, and geometry.
A student presents her research as a professor listens to her presentation during EURECA undergraduate research.

Selected Faculty Focus Areas

  • Dr. Michelle Knox: Rings of functions, algebraic structures, general/topological methods in analysis.
  • Dr. Joel Schmitter: Probability & statistics; empirical processes; statistics education.
  • Dr. Jeff Hood: Differential equations & dynamical systems; control theory; polymer viscoelasticity; image analysis/computer vision.

Academic Advising for Mathematics Majors

Work with McCoy College academic counselors to build a degree plan, sequence courses (Calculus through advanced electives), and explore pathways to certification, graduate study, or quantitative careers.

Learn more about the McCoy College Academic Counselors

Two students work together with their laptops and paperwork.

Peer-Led Support & Tutoring

  • Peer-Led Support: Peer-led team learning has been a proven and effective format for assisting in STEM courses. Other campus programs such as JAMP (premed majors) and TASP provide students with one-on-one instruction options.
  • TASP's Learning Center (TLC): Drop-in tutoring for Math, Writing, Science, and more (Moffett Library, first floor).
  • TASP's Group Tutoring: After-hours sessions designed for student-athletes, commuters, and others needing evening support.

Student Organizations

Math Club — Pizza & Problems

Explore new and unfamiliar questions in mathematics—connected to games, visuals, construction, and more. Open to all studnets (not just math majors). Pizza provided!
A group of students happily pose during Math Club's Pizza and Problems event.
Pi Mu Epsilon logo.

Pi Mu Epsilon — Mathematics Honor Society

Local chapter recognizing excellence in mathematics; supports engagement, talks, and community building.

Scholarships

Department and university scholarships may support mathematics students pursuing teaching certification, research, or advanced coursework.

Our Alumni

Mathematics alumni teach in schools and colleges, work in finance and analytics, serve in tech and research roles, and succeed in graduate programs in mathematics, statistics, data science, and education.
A student shows her decorated MSU Texas graduation cap as other graduates sit in front of and around her during MSU Texas commencement.

McCoy College of Science, Mathematics & Engineering

Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

We are located in Bolin Hall
(Building 5 on the Campus Map)
Campus Map

Have Questions?

Emily Allen Secretary
Mathematics
(940) 397-4411