Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Department
Department of Mathematics
College
College of Science and Technology
Overview of the program
The overall educational objective of the B.S. in Mathematics program is to provide students with the opportunity to develop their analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving skills that will prepare them to succeed in either graduate school or in a variety of careers in business, industry, government, or teaching. Other objectives include:
- Students will develop facility with computational calculations using a variety of scientific software and technology.
- Students will develop communication skills allowing them to access, disseminate, and analyze mathematical information.
- Students will develop a well-rounded introduction to the main branches of modern mathematics, maintaining an appropriate balance between theoretical and applied mathematics.
The overall educational objective of the B.S. in Mathematics with a concentration in Mathematics Education degree program is to prepare students to teach high school mathematics.
Concentrations
B.S. in Mathematics (no concentrations)
B.S. in Mathematics with a concentration in Mathematics Education
Strengths of the program
Every recent predictor of current and future jobs ranks mathematics-related jobs among the top of their lists of occupations. The skills cultivated by a major in mathematics are highly valued by both professional graduate schools such as law, medicine, and business, and also by employers in the private sector.
Particular strengths of the mathematics program at Southeastern Louisiana University include:
- Research experiences available for advanced students
- Internationally recognized faculty
- Small class sizes in upper-level courses provide students with individualized attention
- Internship possibilities with leading businesses such as IBM
- Departmental scholarship
The severe shortage of certified high school mathematics teachers creates an excellent job market for students choosing the Mathematics Education Concentration. Particular strengths of the mathematics education program at Southeastern Louisiana University include:
- Faculty with extensive experience teaching at the middle school, high school, and university level
- Professorial faculty with Ph.D. degrees in mathematics education and mathematics
- Small class sizes in upper-level courses that provide students with individualized attention
- Departmental scholarships
Preparing for a job in the program
Students hoping to pursue a career in mathematics or mathematics education should:
- Strive to secure an adequate high school math background
- Develop written and oral communication skills
- Acquire computer skills, including programming background
- Acquire tutoring experience
Careers in the program
The BS in Mathematics degree prepares students for careers in a variety of fields, including:
- Industrial mathematics
- Computer systems
- Accounting
- Operations research
- Statistics
- Consulting
- Software engineering
- Actuarial science
- Finance and insurance
- Industrial engineering
- Information technology
- Middle school or high school education
Other careers are given here: http://weusemath.com/careers
A mathematics degree also prepares students for graduate school in a variety of disciplines, including:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
- Biostatistics
- Actuarial science
- Computer science
- Law school
- Medical school
- Dental school
- Pharmacology
- Economics
- Business
- Engineering
- Meteorology
- Chemistry
A BS in Mathematics with a Concentration in Mathematics Education prepares students for a career in both middle school and high school education.
Starting Salaries after completing the program (estimates only)
Since a BS in Mathematics degree offers students with a wide variety of career options, salaries vary considerably:
- Mathematicians: $32,000 - $40,000
- Actuaries: $36,000 - $46,000
- Statisticians: average is $61,000
- Operations research analyst: $33,000 - $42,500
Starting salaries for high school and middle school teachers in the surrounding region is about $32,000.
Campus organizations and activities affiliated with the program
Pi Mu Epsilon
Related fields that might interest you
- Computer science
- Physics
- Actuarial science
- Cryptography
- Risk analysis
- Bioinformatics
- Biostatistics
How do I know this is the degree for me?
Common Strengths and interests of students in the program
Qualities for succeeding as a mathematics major include:
- Logical thinkers skilled at problem-solving
- Possesses an analytical mind
- Possesses the ability to quickly assess large amounts of information and data
- Good computer skills
- Determination and patience
- Oral and written communication skills
Contact Information
Department of Mathematics
College of Science and Technology
SLU 10687
Hammond, LA 70402
On Campus: Fayard Hall, Room 308
Telephone: 985-549 - 2175
E-mail: thudson@selu.edu
