What to expect when majoring in Mathematics?

Hello all! I'm considering a major in Mathematics and I'm curious about what kind of courses I should expect to take during my college years. What are some common or core courses that math majors typically need to complete? Is the coursework primarily theoretical or would there be some applied math as well? Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

Hello! Majoring in Mathematics can be a rewarding and challenging experience, depending on your interests and academic background. Throughout your college years, you'll likely encounter a mix of theoretical and applied math courses. Here are a few core courses that you can expect to take as a math major:

1. Calculus - You'll likely have to complete a sequence in Calculus, typically including Calculus I, II, and III. This covers concepts such as limits, derivatives, and integrals, and often ends with multivariate calculus.

2. Linear Algebra - This course focuses on the study of vector spaces and linear transformations, and plays an important role in various fields of study.

3. Differential Equations - This course explores ordinary differential equations and their applications. It often includes first-order differential equations, second-order linear equations, and systems of linear differential equations.

4. Abstract Algebra - This course introduces you to the basic concepts of groups, rings, and fields, which are fundamental to various areas of mathematics, including number theory and geometry.

5. Real and Complex Analysis - These courses typically cover concepts like sequences, series, continuity, differentiability, and integrability. Real Analysis focuses on real number systems while Complex Analysis focuses on complex numbers.

6. Probability and Statistics - You'll often be required to take a course on probability and statistics. This can be either purely theoretical, applied, or a mix of the two.

7. Electives - You'll have opportunities to choose elective courses depending on your interests. These can include subjects like number theory, topology, combinatorics, applied mathematic courses like mathematical modeling or operations research, and courses from other disciplines that intersect with math like physics and computer science.

While the core subjects lean more towards theoretical mathematics, you'll have the option to tailor your studies to suit your interests, whether that's pursuing a more applied mathematics path or diving deeper into the abstract realms of theory. Don't forget to also seek out extracurricular opportunities, research projects, and internships to gain further exposure to the various aspects of mathematics. Good luck!