Department of Mathematics

Undergraduate Degree Programs

Two students talk, while a professor looks on

The Department of Mathematics offers three degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, and Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics. This is a testament to the fact that mathematics is, at the same time, both a subject of the greatest inherent depth and beauty with a history extending from antiquity, and also a powerful tool for understanding our world. 

By studying mathematics, you'll be introduced to fundamental fields—algebra, real and complex analysis, geometry and topology—and to the practice of applying mathematical ideas in the real world. Our curriculum includes courses in calculus, linear algebra, abstract algebra, real and complex analysis, topology, differential geometry, differential equations, number theory, combinatorics, statistics and probability, dynamical systems, numerical methods, modeling, and optimization. As a mathematics major, you'll be well prepared for graduate study, as well as for a career in scientific research, finance and actuarial science. Whatever path you choose, we also want you to love mathematics for its own sake. As Albert Einstein said, "Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas."

Applications of mathematics to physics, biology, chemistry, economics and social sciences have proved particularly fruitful, and have led to the development of new mathematical tools and methods. The Applied Mathematics major will introduce students to the essential tools used in such applications. It will prepare students for professional careers in public institutions, research centers or private companies using quantitative methods (such as modeling, data analysis or optimization) to understand and solve complex real-world problems.

Why Brandeis?

Our department is small, flexible and friendly. It’s also intellectually rigorous. Our faculty’s accomplishments have placed it among the top departments in the country.

And speaking of our faculty, they are not only outstanding academicians, they are also dedicated teachers and mentors. Especially in advanced-level courses, you’ll often find them in the audience while a student lectures. By fostering dialogue among all members of the department, we aim to bring mathematics to life.

A separate teacher preparation track leads to a license to teach high school in the state of Massachusetts. The major in applied mathematics provides several tracks for students seeking to use mathematical tools in the physical and computational sciences, or in economics and finance.

Just beyond Brandeis, you’ll find an area teeming with first-rate universities that create a mathematical community of great diversity and depth. In addition to attending lectures, seminars and colloquia, you’ll have many opportunities for contact with mathematicians at Boston College, Boston University, Harvard, MIT, Northeastern, Wellesley, and Tufts.

Undergraduate Degree Programs

Faculty and Student Excellence

Graduate Study, Careers and Alumni

“Math is something completely logical and is either right or wrong. If something is true, then I know why it is true and it remains true forever.”

Kaiyue He ’18