Mathematics: B.S. & B.A.

Most people have some idea of what math is, but digging in deeply will show you that it is really about discovering absolute truth. Mathematics is more than just finding answers. It's proving those answers – using unassailable logic – to be undeniably true. Mathematics for you is a discipline, a journey … and it’s fun!

With a degree in mathematics, you will be prepared for any career that requires logical reasoning – from science to law to business, or any number of disciplines. In fact, Ouachita math alumni are often hired before other majors in a variety of fields because their degree tells employers they can think deeply, reason carefully and solve complex problems.

Data Analyst

Teacher

Actuary

Data Scientist

Cryptoanalyst

Engineer

Introduction to Cryptology
Calculus I, II, III
Fundamentals of Mathematical Proof
Linear Algebra
Abstract Algebra
Probability & Statistics
Mathematical Scholarship

View the Ouachita catalog for a full course listing with course descriptions.

Accounting

Business Administration

Carl Goodson Honors Program

There are several ways to pursue mathematics at Ouachita to help you reach your desired career goals, from a B.A. to a B.S. paired with a second field or a teaching double major focused on either math or physics/math. A minor also is available.

View the detailed degree requirements PDF to see all courses included in the program.

Learn more about the School of Natural Sciences.

Learn more about the Department of Math & Computer Science.

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Rate of Ouachita Math Graduates vs. the National Average

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of Ouachita Math Majors Have a Second Major

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Recent Math Graduates Found Jobs (2020)

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or Fewer Students in Upper Level Classes

Degree Options:

choose your path

The Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics is designed to provide flexibility in scheduling, especially for students wanting to pair their mathematics major with additional study of a discipline outside of the natural sciences.

The Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics (Teaching Emphasis) is designed to prepare students for a career in secondary mathematics education. This degree trains students in mathematics while also providing a second major in Secondary Education.

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics is designed to provide flexibility in scheduling for those students wanting to pursue a second major within the Patterson School of Natural Sciences.

The department collaborates with Ouachita’s physics and education programs to offer a Bachelor of Arts in Physics/Mathematics (Teaching Emphasis). This degree trains students in mathematics while also providing a second major in Secondary Education.

The minor in mathematics requires a minimum of 18 hours, at least six of which must be at the junior senior level.

In their words

hear from a faculty member & student

"Ouachita's Department of Mathematics helped shape who I am today. The courses of study stretched and challenged the way I think, for sure; but more importantly, my professors and classmates changed the way I live. The example of my professors genuinely caring for me is something I try to mimic to my own students today."

Luke Dawson headshot Luke Dawson
2018 graduate, who works as a geometry teacher & football coach for Shiloh Christian School in Springdale, Ark.

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CALCULUS: BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

If you want to major in math, you’ve likely already taken calculus in high school. Unique to Ouachita is the fact that you will begin your undergraduate degree studying non-calculus mathematics much sooner than you would at another university; you will be introduced to continuous and discrete math. One of the first courses you will take in our program is Introduction to Cryptology, a rare opportunity at the freshman level.

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A FACTOR TO CONSIDER? OUR FACULTY

With extensive teaching experience at the high school and undergraduate levels, our math faculty know how to be good teachers. And unlike other institutions, at Ouachita you will take classes with the same professors multiple times. They will know you well enough to not only tailor your education to you but also to write letters of recommendation that give you an edge when you graduate.

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MATHEMATICIANS ARE OUR END RESULT

At Ouachita, you will encounter the breadth of mathematics, pure and applied, continuous and discrete. But that is only a slice of the pie. We want to develop your curiosity, as well as your confidence. In our Mathematical Scholarship class, for example, you will learn how to read professional literature, conduct your own research and communicate your results in writing and through speech – all the tools you will need to become a true mathematician.

CALCULATE YOUR INTERESTS WITH

real world experiences.

As a Ouachita math student, you will have exciting opportunities to apply your studies in the real world. For example, our students have participated in the Mathematical Association of America’s Preparation for Industrial Careers (PIC) Math program, funded by the National Security Agency and the National Science Foundation, to analyze diagnostic data from Cygnus Flash X-Ray machines and help develop statistical models for nuclear studies at the Nevada National Security Site – not to mention presenting their findings and results at a national level. You will be challenged to pursue experiences that not only look great on your resume but also help you assess your career interests.

Ouachita's Patterson Summer Research Program sees record student participation, recognition

Ouachita Baptist University’s J.D. Patterson School of Natural Sciences had a record number of 28 students conducting faculty-advised research during summer break through its Patterson Summer Research Program.