Mathematics

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What is Mathematics?

This major establishes a strong foundation in many areas of mathematics. Students will study algebra, geometry, topology, logic, analysis, probability, and differential equations. Subjects of study also include algebraic geometry, combinatorics, optimization, number theory, and applied mathematics. In this program, your coursework will strengthen your abstract thinking and quantitative reasoning. You will leave with both proof-based and applied math as a foundation for your future career. Students have the opportunity to specialize in:

Applied mathematics
Operations research
Teaching (through our Secondary Education option)
Graduate studies preparation

Career Options

Analytics
Consulting
Industry
Research
Teaching

Post-Graduation Success¹

92% employed or continuing education

36% employed after graduation

56% attending graduate school

$81,318 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Google (2), Wauconda High School (2), Epic Systems (2) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania View All

Program Resources

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

Calculus preferred (if available at high school)
Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention²

4.0 years to degree

92% first-year retention rate

73% four-year graduation rate

86% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs³

Illinois Resident

Tuition: $13,252
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,558
Total: $37,992

Non-Resident

Tuition: $35,928
Fees: $5,182
Expenses:$19,898
Total: $61,008

International

Tuition: $38,576
Fees: $5,182
Expenses: $19,898
Total: $63,656

Related Majors

Computer Science - ENG

Economics - LAS

Mathematics and Computer Science - LAS

Statistics - LAS

¹ Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

² Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

³ "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.