Mathematics Degree
Mathematics Degree
A degree in Mathematics will prepare you with the skills you need to problem solve and communicate technical information in a variety of career fields.
Request InformationMathematics is the study of quantities, patterns, and relationships that utilizes
both abstract and concrete methods. Logical reasoning, the ability to use different forms of representation, and effective
communication are necessary in order to master mathematics.
An increasing number of employers are hiring mathematics majors for careers in which
their problem solving skills can be applied to other areas beyond those traditionally
considered mathematical. A degree in mathematics focuses on problem solving and communicating
technical information, both skills highly valued by employers.
Why a B.A. or B.S. Degree in Mathematics?
If you enjoy using logical reasoning to solve complex mathematical problems, then
the bachelor’s degree in mathematics could be for you. Whether you envision yourself
teaching the next generation, working in the banking or finance industry, or pursuing
an advanced degree in law or medicine, a mathematics degree will prepare you with
the skills you need to problem solve and communicate technical information in a wide
variety of career fields.
About the Mathematics Major
Housed under the Division of Science and Mathematics, the degree program in mathematics is offered in three different tracks.
Secondary Education in Mathematics:
Designed for students who wish to be high school teachers.This track provides an extensive background in both mathematics and education and is specifically designed to meet the requirements of the State of Illinois.
Financial and Actuarial Sciences Track:
Designed for students considering a career in banking, in finance, or as an actuary. In this track, you will take courses that focus on mathematics and business. Specific courses focus on mathematics for the first and second professional actuarial exams.These exams are the initial licensing requirements to become a professional actuary as determined by the Society of Actuaries.
General Mathematics Track:
Designed for students who plan on analytical, highly technical careers or graduate school. This track is perfect for students who enjoy mathematics but do not wish to be high school teachers or work in finance or as actuaries.
A minor in mathematics is also available and is easily combined with a major in chemistry
or computing.
Why McKendree?
McKendree University provides interactive learning opportunities through small class
sizes, experienced faculty, and unique internship experiences that move you beyond
the classroom. We are committed to your success in the degree programs we offer, the
internships and extracurricular activities that will set you apart, and the college
experience you’ll receive here. Just 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis, Missouri,
McKendree University is located in historic Lebanon, Illinois, and affords students
a host of enriching cultural, career, and entertainment opportunities.
Program Highlights
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Three different tracks give you the flexibility to gear your studies in mathematics toward your desired career.
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Our mathematics majors have participated in Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs) in Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Nebraska, Ohio, and South Carolina, and have had their research published in well-known scholarly journals.
- The Pi Mu Epsilon mathematics honor society provides recognition to our highest-achieving mathematic majors.
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The Sigma Zeta science and mathematics honor society allows you to present your own research findings at a national conference, interact with others, and enhance your resume.
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Local paid internships and experience tutoring in McKendree’s Student Success and Advising Center provide mathematics majors with important resume-building opportunities before graduation.
Employment Opportunities
An increasing number of employers are hiring mathematics majors for careers in which
their problem solving skills can be applied to other areas beyond those traditionally
considered mathematical. Graduates in mathematics often find jobs utilizing their
skills in computer or electrical technology, statistics, probability, consulting,
and market research.
Some of the companies our recent graduates are working for include:
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Wells Fargo
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Boeing
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Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
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State Farm Insurance
What Our Students & Alumni Are Saying
“Being a Mathematics major at McKendree is extremely rewarding. Professors genuinely enjoy teaching and interacting with students; they are academically, professionally, and emotionally supportive. The small class sizes and friendly, engaging professors makes the Mathematics faculty feel like a family.”
~ Anthony Rhoads '14 , pursuing a Ph.D. in Biostatistics at
the University of Iowa
“One of the best parts of being a student at McKendree was the relationships I was able to form with my professors. The Mathematics faculty at McK have such great personalities. They really care about the students and go out of their way to make learning fun!”
~ Dr. Maggie Rahmoeller '10, currently Assistant Professor of
Mathematics at Roanoke College in Virginia
“I could not have been happier with my choice to major in Mathematics at McKendree. The professors were outstanding, and I found their open door policy to be an invaluable piece of my learning experience.”
~ Tyler Schwierjohn ASA, MAAA ’08, currently works at Wellpoint in St. Louis
and is a Fellow in the Society of Actuaries
“As a Mathematics major at McKendree, I had the opportunity to develop mentor-mentee relationships with not just my advisor, but with the entire department. Those relationships molded me into the mathematician I am today. I will always look to them for advice as my career continues.”
~ Aleesha Moran '13, pursuing a Ph.D. in Pure Mathematics at Washington
University in St. Louis
“At McKendree, I was not a face in the crowd. All my professors knew me personally, and I believe that was the key to my success in Mathematics. We embraced each other’s unique set of talents and challenged each other to be better mathematicians.”
~ Stephanie Thomas '10, currently works for the Department of Defense near
Baltimore, Maryland, as an applied research mathematician
Interesting Courses
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Calculus I, II, and III---Calculus is one of the great landmarks of human thought and endeavor. Join us as we explore this fascinating subject.
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Probability and Financial Mathematics---These courses provide the foundation for becoming an actuary.
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Seminar in Mathematics---This course allows students to "teach the class" and show what they've learned over the course of their studies.
Club Information / Honor Societies
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Sigma Zeta (National Science and Mathematics Honor Society) - The McKendree Beta Chapter is the oldest active chapter in Sigma Zeta and has been awarded the Founder’s Cup five times for its activity at the national and local level. Each year, students and faculty attend the National Conference, where they present their independent research and network with peers and professors from universities across the nation.
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McKendree MathCats - Have fun and meet other students in the campus mathematics club.
- Pi Mu Epsilon - This is one of McKendree's newest honor societies. Accomplished mathematics majors will be invited to join each spring.
Related Programs
Your Student Success Support Team
Key Faculty
Professor
Voigt Science Hall 115
(618) 537-6931
jaalewine@mckendree.edu
Instructor
Voigt Science Hall
jlpace@mckendree.edu
