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Mathematics Major

Bethany Lutheran College | www.blc.edu

Have you ever wondered how minimum wage or interest rates are determined? Or how much money you should invest to turn a profit? Have you ever considered the complexity of traffic patterns? Answers to many of life's problems are found in mathematics. Contrary to popular belief, mathematics is not as much about numbers as it is the study of patterns and structure. As a math major, you will spend countless hours using mathematical skills to think about, reason through, and analyze information. Through analysis and application you will better understand the world and be able to practice the critical thinking necessary to maintain a firm spiritual and moral foundation.

Whether you plan to pursue graduate studies in mathematics or if you're more interested in applied mathematics - business, physics, chemistry, engineering, economics, operations research, computer programming, or numerous other fields, the program at Bethany was designed to meet your needs. The required completion of either an independent research project or a mathematics-related internship will distinguish you from other mathematics majors seeking graduate school or job placement.

Regardless of your long-term mathematical goals, you will participate in two semesters of Mathematics Colloquium. This capstone course gives you the opportunity to learn about mathematical topics not covered otherwise in your coursework through presentations by Bethany math professors and experts outside of the Bethany community. This course also provides a forum for you to share your research and internship experiences with others and to engage in student projects.

Opportunities in Mathematics

  • Actuarial Science
  • Biomathematics
  • Cryptography
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • Finance
  • Mathematics Education
  • Operations Research
  • Statistics

Students completing the mathematics major may find jobs working in mathematics or may enroll in graduate programs in mathematics, mathematics education, or statistics.  Students may also pursue advanced professional degrees in areas such as law or business.  All students completing a major in mathematics will bring invaluable critical thinking skills to any workplace. 

Double Majoring in Mathematics

The Mathematics major has been successfully combined with other majors to allow students the opportunity to graduate with a second degree in mathematics.  When planned a double major in mathematics can often be achieved within four years.  Students interested in double majoring will need to start the calculus sequence their first semester.  Unique workforce opportunities exist when students double major with fields such as biology, business, or chemistry. 

Entry into the Major

A student wishing to major in mathematics must submit a formal application to the major after completing MATH142. Extraordinary cases will be dealt with on an individual basis. Upon receipt of the application, students will be granted entry into the major if they have met the following requirements:

  • Achieved an overall GPA of 2.5 or better
  • Achieved a grade of C or better in all mathematics coursework
  • Secured an advisor within the mathematics department

Core Requirements

Required lower division courses:

Required upper division courses:

Major Electives

Required 13 credits:

Capstone/ Internship

Choose one of the following:

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