Study Theory, Apply Logic, and Explore the Patterns Behind the World
The mathematics major blends logic, problem-solving, and creativity to help you understand complex systems and make informed decisions. You’ll explore the structure and patterns behind everything from algorithms to natural phenomena, building a foundation that’s both theoretical and practical.
Working closely with faculty experts in areas like combinatorics, mathematical biology, and mathematics education, you’ll engage in hands-on learning that connects abstract ideas to real-world challenges. Whether analyzing data, modeling biological systems, or exploring strategies for teaching math, you’ll develop skills that are in demand across industries.
Emmanuel’s focus on mentorship and applied experience prepares you for careers in education, finance, data science, and technology, as well as for graduate study in math and related fields.
Outcomes & Outlook
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A First-Class Experience
Get to know the people and programs that will define your academic journey.
Dr. Benjamin Allen Awarded Templeton Grant for Evolutionary Math Research
Allen will collaborate with a team of philosophers on a $600K Templeton Foundation–funded study exploring goal-directed behavior in “superorganisms” like coral reefs—using mathematics to model purpose, evolution, and the complexity of collective life.
Meet the Faculty
Our distinguished faculty publish, exhibit and research. Present, compose and chair. Inspire and collaborate.
The Curriculum
View the 2024-2025 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.
Requirements for B.A. in Mathematics
- MATH2101 Linear Algebra (QA) (QR)
- MATH2103 Calculus III (QA) (QR)
- MATH2109 Introduction to Proofs (QA) (QR) (WI)
- MATH2113 Statistics with R (QA) (QR)
- MATH3101 Real Analysis
- MATH3107 Abstract Algebra
- MATH4157 Senior Seminar
At least three electives to be chosen from
- MATH2104 College Geometry* (QA) (QR)
- MATH2107 Differential Equations (QA) (QR)
- MATH2111 Mathematical Modeling for Social Justice (QA) (QR) (SJ)
- MATH2115 Modeling and Simulation with MATLAB (QA) (QR)
- MATH3103 Probability
- MATH3105 Advanced Statistics
- MATH3113 Special Topics in Mathematics
- MATH4101 Programming in SAS
- MATH4178 Directed Study
- MATH4194/95 Research Internship I and II**
*Required for students seeking Teacher Licensure in Mathematics
**MATH4194 counts as a 3000-level math elective for a B.A. in Mathematics if the entire two-semester internship sequence (MATH4194 and MATH4195) is completed. Students receive academic credit for the second internship course (MATH4195), but it would not be counted as one of the 10 required mathematics courses.
View the 2024-2025 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.
Requirements for Minor in Mathematics
This minor provides a strong background in mathematics for a variety of majors. The program offers valuable support to the students in their post-Emmanuel careers and provides essential background for students pursuing graduate work.
- MATH1111 Calculus I (QA) (QR)
- MATH1112 Calculus II (QA) (QR)
- MATH2103 Calculus III (QA) (QR)
- MATH2101 Linear Algebra (QA) (QR) OR MATH2109 Introduction to Proofs (QA) (QR)
Two electives to be chosen from:
- MATH2101 Linear Algebra (QA) (QR)
- MATH2104 College Geometry(QA) (QR)
- MATH2107 Differential Equations(QA) (QR)
- MATH2109 Introduction to Proofs (QA) (QR) (WI)
- MATH2111 Mathematical Modeling for Social Justice (QA) (QR) (SJ)
- MATH2113 Statistics with R (QA) (QR)
- MATH2115 Modeling and Simulation with MATLAB (QA) (QR)
- MATH3101 Real Analysis
- MATH3103 Probability
- MATH3105 Advanced Statistics
- MATH3107 Abstract Algebra
- MATH3113 Special Topics in Mathematics
Students exempt from Calculus I and/or Calculus II by placement will choose additional electives for a total of five courses.
- Have a working knowledge of a common set of core mathematical concepts/skills/problems/theorems/ways of thought
- Be proficient in learning and using technology, especially any standard workplace tools for data visualization and analysis
- Be able to read and construct rigorous proofs across the discipline and develop critical-thinking skills through this process
- Have a knowledge of and appreciation for the history and traditions of mathematics
- Be able to independently learn and study mathematics
- Be able to effectively communicate mathematical ideas to others, including non-mathematicians
- Be able to analyze and apply mathematics to problems or situations arising in non-classroom contexts
- Be aware of contemporary applications of mathematics, including areas in which current research is being done
Students seeking teacher licensure in mathematics must complete a major in mathematics as well as complete required education courses and student teaching.
Education requirements are available through the education department. Interested students should also consult the mathematics department regarding the optimal selection of electives. Students who are seeking teacher licensure in mathematics must select MATH2104 College Geometry as one of their electives.
Students seeking Initial Licensure in Massachusetts must pass the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL).
What can I do with a degree in mathematics?
A degree in mathematics can prepare you for a variety of career paths. Some possible options include:
- Actuary: Actuaries analyze financial risks and design insurance policies to minimize those risks.
- Data analyst: Data analysts use mathematical and statistical methods to analyze and interpret complex data sets.
- Mathematician: Mathematicians research and develop mathematical principles, theories, and concepts to solve problems in various fields.
- Operations research analyst: Operations research analysts use mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions.
- Statistician: Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret numerical data to help organizations make informed decisions.
- Software developer: Mathematics majors often have strong problem-solving and programming skills, making them well-suited for careers in software development.
- Education: A degree in mathematics can also prepare you to teach mathematics at various levels, from elementary school to university.
- Financial analyst: Financial analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and help organizations make investment decisions.
Where Essential Values and Skills Meet the Real World
Along with areas of knowledge and major requirements, you will cultivate essential values in the classroom and complete two courses in each area:
- Social Justice (SJ): Develop knowledge, skills, values and motivation to participate beneficially in activities of personal and public concern.
- Diversity & Multiculturalism (DM): Understand the complexity of identity the historical truths of different cultural perspectives to address bias and examine contemporary social issues.
One hundred percent of Emmanuel students complete an internship as part of the core curriculum. In a city as dynamic as Boston, your options are bound only by the limits of your curiosity.
Students majoring in mathematics work on original research alongside faculty, which often leads to publications in journals or presentations at national conferences. They also intern MassMutual, Fidelity Investments, Northwestern Mutual and more, with roles in finance, data analytics, software development and more.
In all majors, the Capstone Experience involves completing a significant piece of work that requires the integration and application of learning from multiple courses.
As a mathematics major, you will dive into an advanced topic of your choice and write and present a paper, along with a portfolio demonstrating your achievement of the goals of the major program.
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