Mathematics is the language for understanding patterns and developing abstractions. It is the science of number, structure, shape, and change. Practitioners learn to think analytically and critically, and to formulate and solve problems. The role of mathematics is vital and growing, providing solutions to problems in a wide range of disciplines including physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, computer science, and economics. As a result, employment opportunities for those with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics continue to expand. Combined with a California single subject credential in mathematics, a BS in mathematics prepares students to teach at the high school level. Alternatively, combined with a master's degree, a BS in mathematics prepares students to teach at the community college level.
The option in general mathematics. This option prepares students for positions in industry and government (e.g., data scientist, software engineer, or financial analyst) or to pursue graduate work in mathematics or a related field. Students develop strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
The option in applied mathematics. This option prepares students for positions in industry and government, or to pursue graduate work in pure or applied mathematics. A degree in applied mathematics is preparation for solving mathematical problems in a variety of disciplines.
The option in mathematics education. This option fulfills all requirements for the Single Subject Preparation Program in Mathematics for those students wishing to pursue a California single subject credential in mathematics. Students first complete the BS in mathematics education, then enroll in a one-year postbaccalaureate credential program. Graduates of the credential program are qualified to teach high school in California and other states with reciprocity agreements. The mathematics education option also prepares students to pursue graduate degrees in mathematics education.
The option in mathematics education-credential path. Students wishing to obtain a degree and a high school teaching credential should choose this option as it allows students to earn both a bachelor's degree and credential in four years.
The option in statistics. This option is a balance between theoretical and applied statistics. Statistics graduates are well prepared to pursue a higher degree in statistics or data science. Statisticians offer essential insight in determining which data and conclusions are trustworthy. They can find many career opportunities in cutting-edge research in applied fields such as medicine, pharmaceuticals, business, insurance, and other actuarial applications, quality control, and the social sciences.
Grading Requirement
All courses taken to fulfill program course requirements must be taken for a letter grade except those courses specified by the department as credit/no credit grading only.
Enrollment in any mathematics course requires a grade of C- or higher in all prerequisite courses or their transfer equivalents.
All courses taken to fulfill credential course requirements must be taken for a letter grade (except those courses specified by the department as credit/no credit grading only) and must be completed with a grade of C- or higher. Students must attain a cumulative 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) in credential courses.
Course Requirements for the Major: 49-54 units
Completion of the following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, is required of all candidates for this degree. Courses in this program may complete more than one graduation requirement.
The MATH 120, MATH 121, MATH 220 sequence should be started as early as possible, provided the student has the necessary background. MATH 118 and MATH 119 (or their equivalents) are required pre-calculus courses for MATH 120.
Some upper-division courses require only MATH 120 or MATH 121 as a prerequisite. Refer to catalog course listings when choosing courses.
Major Option Course Requirements
Students must select one of the following options for completion of the major course requirements.
A student may complete more than one option in the major. Only courses specifically required by both options may be double counted.
The following program, together with the major core program, fulfills all requirements for the Single Subject Matter Preparation Program in Mathematics.
Subject matter preparation requirements are governed by federal and state legislative action and approval of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Requirements may change between catalogs. Please consult with your department credential advisor for current information.
The Option in Mathematics Education - Credential Path: 70 units
The following program, together with the major core program, fulfills all requirements for both a degree in mathematics (Mathematics Education option) and the Single Subject Credential in Mathematics.
To complete the total units required for the bachelor's degree, select additional elective courses from the total University offerings. You should consult with an advisor regarding the selection of courses which will provide breadth to your University experience and possibly apply to a supportive second major or minor.
Honors in the Major
Honors in the Major is a program of independent work in your major. It requires six units of honors coursework completed over two semesters.
The Honors in the Major program allows you to work closely with a faculty mentor in your area of interest on an original performance or research project. This year-long collaboration allows you to work in your field at a professional level and culminates in a public presentation of your work. Students sometimes take their projects beyond the University for submission in professional journals, presentation at conferences, or academic competition. Such experience is valuable for graduate school and professional life. Your honors work will be recognized at your graduation, on your permanent transcripts, and on your diploma. It is often accompanied by letters of commendation from your mentor in the department or the department chair.
Some common features of Honors in the Major program are:
You must take six units of Honors in the Major coursework. All six units are honors courses (marked by a suffix of H), and at least three of these units are independent study (399H, 499H, 599H) as specified by your department. You must complete each course with a minimum grade of B.
You must have completed 9 units of upper-division coursework or 21 overall units in your major before you can be admitted to Honors in the Major. Check the requirements for your major carefully, as there may be specific courses that must be included in these units.
Your cumulative GPA should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
Your GPA in your major should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
Most students apply for or are invited to participate in Honors in the Major during the second semester of their junior year. Then they complete the six units of coursework over the two semesters of their senior year.
Your honors work culminates with a public presentation of your honors project.
Honors in the Major is not part of the Honors Program. Each department administers its own program. Please contact your major department or major advisor to apply.
Well-qualified Mathematics majors are encouraged to apply for Honors in Mathematics. The program is open to junior and senior Mathematics majors who have completed nine upper-division units (or a total of 24 units) in mathematics, including MATH 420W with a grade of B or higher, and have a grade point average among the top 5% of junior-senior mathematics majors. Please visit the department office in HOLT 101 for further information.
See Bachelor's Degree Requirements for complete details on general degree requirements. A minimum of 39 units, including those required for the major, must be upper division.
General Education Requirements: 48 units
See General Education and the Class Schedule for the most current information on General Education Requirements and course offerings.
This major has approved GE modification(s). See below for information on how to apply these modification(s).
MATH 217 is an approved major course substitution for Critical Thinking (A3).
MATH 330W is an approved major course substitution for Upper-Division Scientific Inquiry and Quantitative Reasoning (UD-B).
These modifications apply to The Option in Mathematics Education - Credential Path only
EDTE 451 fulfills Lifelong Learning and Self-Development (E).
You must complete a minimum of two courses that focus primarily on cultural diversity. At least one course must be in US Diversity (USD) and at least one in Global Cultures (GC). See Diversity Requirements for a full list of courses. Most courses taken to satisfy these requirements may also apply to General Education.
Upper-Division Writing Requirement
Writing Across the Curriculum (EM 17-009) is a graduation requirement and may be demonstrated through satisfactory completion of four Writing (W) courses, two of which are designated by the major department. See Mathematics/Quantitative Reasoning and Writing Requirements for more details on the four courses. The first of the major designated Writing (W) courses is listed below.
The second major-designated Writing course is the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GW) (EO 665). Students must earn a C- or higher to receive GW credit. The GE Written Communication (A2) requirement must be completed before a student is permitted to register for a GW course.
