Mathematics, B.S. Program (120 units)
Program Description
An undergraduate major in mathematics is one of the best preparations not only for studying advanced Mathematics, but also for graduate work in Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research, Actuarial Science, and the Natural Sciences. Math majors are encouraged to pursue a minor or double major in another discipline that supports their goals or interests.
Mathematics is an intriguing, interesting and beautiful subject. It is also challenging and rigorous. Students are drawn to mathematics because of its clarity and the joy of discovering solutions to difficult problems. The Department of Mathematics offers a strong Bachelor of Science degree that includes a variety of courses intended to prepare students for a career in any mathematics related field or other areas that value quantitative and problem-solving skills. The program allows flexibility in breadth and depth where students can choose among courses with applied and pure emphases. The faculty are committed to creating a welcoming environment and providing opportunities for undergraduates to explore mathematics within and beyond the classroom. There are scholarships available for math majors to support their studies while at CSU East Bay.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students graduating with a B.S. in Mathematics from Cal State East Bay will be able to:
- Apply the definitions, techniques and theorems of mathematics.
- Use mathematics to understand, explain and/or solve problems beyond a particular course.
- Creatively conjecture and rigorously write, analyze and critique proofs.
- Communicate mathematics effectively.
Program Roadmaps
These program roadmaps represent recommended pathways through the program. Please see an advisor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs.
Career Opportunities
Mathematics opens the doors to many promising careers. Mathematician is consistently listed among the top ranked jobs in Jobs Rated Almanac from CareerCast and many of the highest earning careers require strong mathematical skills. Many positions such as engineer, doctor, nurse, computer scientist, actuarial scientist, etc. require knowledge of mathematics. The analytical and problem-solving skills students learn in mathematics can apply to many other disciplines as well. In particular, math majors score among the highest on the LSAT and GMAT for entry into law school or for advanced study in business. The math major prepares students for careers in academia, education, actuarial science, business, computing, engineering, law, medicine, physical and life sciences and public service. Profiles of successful math majors can be found on the Mathematical Association of America’s Career Profiles webpage.
Information for those considering a career as a high school teacher
Making specific choices within the Math B.S. leads to a certification for students applying for a credential program to teach high school mathematics. This single subject certification is approved by the State Board of Education and offers a great opportunity for Math Majors at CSU East Bay. The certification allows a student to waive taking the three required math California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSETs). The mathematics teaching pathway in the major is indicated throughout by asterisks (*) for each required course. Upon reaching upper division status, interested students should speak with the Single Subject Advisor.
Degree Requirements Unit-Outline
- A baccalaureate of arts degree requires a total of 120 units:
- The math major requirements consist of 49 units;
- General Education (GE) & Graduation Requirements (GR) consists of 57 units;
- Free Electives may consist of 14 units (actual number of free elective units may depend on GE/GR units).
Note: It may be possible to double-count units within the graduation requirements or that a course may satisfy both a graduation requirement and a major requirement. Students should contact their program and AACE advisors for information.
Mathematics Major Requirements (49 units)
Lower Division Core
Take the following four (4) lower-division courses for 13 units:
Upper Division Core
Take the following six (6) upper-division courses for 18 units:
Applied Mathematics Coursework
Choose two (2) courses from the following for 6 units:
Theoretical Mathematics Coursework
Choose two (2) courses from the following for 6 units:
Elective Courses
Choose two (2) elective courses from the following for 6 units:
Mathematics Teaching Pathway
Making specific course choices within the Math B.S. leads to a certification for students applying for a credential program to teach high school mathematics. The certification, when accompanied by 45 hours of specific service requirements (which also fulfills a state requirement for admission into a teacher credential program), allows a student to waive taking the three required math California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSETs). This major pathway is indicated throughout by asterisks (*) for each required course. Students should see the Single Subject Math Advisor when ready to plan for upper division courses.
Other Undergraduate Degree Requirements
In addition to major requirements, every student must also complete the University’s baccalaureate requirements for graduation, which are described in the Requirements, Exams & Testing chapter of this catalog.
