Mathematics Major, B.S.

Mathematics majors at Metropolitan State University of Denver develop strong logical reasoning and mathematical skills with an understanding of core subject matter in calculus, proofs and computer programming that can be applied to many careers. Mathematics majors then build upon that foundation in a specialized area of their choice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “employment of mathematicians and statisticians is projected to grow 33 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations,” and, “the median annual wage for mathematicians was $116,440 in May 2023.”

You are invited to consult with our Mathematics faculty advisors about what a degree in Mathematics can do for you.

MSU Denver’s Bachelor of Science degree program in Mathematics offers an affordable, top-quality education. According to an external reviewer, the Math program at MSU Denver is “a gem. It is offering the students the same quality of education that they would receive at an Ivy League School for a fraction of the price.” And with a passionate faculty of Mathematics teacher-scholars dedicated to helping you get the most from your academic experience, you’ll thrive in this diverse, urban learning environment.

Here are some examples of opportunities you will receive as an MSU Denver Math major:

Participate in Mathematics undergraduate research or guided, individual studies. In recent years, students have developed projects in specialized topics such as the following:

• Coding theory and cryptography: using Math to encrypt information and compress the encrypted data in a lossless format
• Mathematical models of morphogenesis — the biological process controlling the spatial distribution of cells during the embryonic development of an organism — and explaining, for example, how a leopard gets its spots
• Research problems in combinatorics

Complete an internship for valuable, first-hand learning experience in the field of Mathematics. With strong alumni connections, the undergraduate degree program in Mathematics has placed several B.S. in Mathematics students at MSU Denver with local and national businesses such as insurance agencies and financial institutions. For example, students interested in actuarial science — the mathematics of insurance and of risk — have interned with companies such as Great West and Mercer.

Diane Davis

Associate Professor Diane Davis is an expert in algebraic geometry. She teaches calculus and linear algebra and is dedicated to helping students succeed. She is the recipient of the Mathematical Association of America Burton Jones Distinguished Teaching Award for the Rocky Mountain region.

MSU Denver alumni who earn a degree in Mathematics enter the workforce well-prepared to make an immediate impact. Employers such as Lockheed Martin, DISH Network, Xcel Energy and Bank of America appreciate our graduates because of their sharp analytical and problem-solving skills. Here are just a few alumni success stories:

• Gabe Young (MSU Denver ’09) earned his Ph.D. at Colorado State University and is an assistant professor at Columbia University
• Randal Wright (MSU Denver ’03) is a systems engineer at Johnson Space Center
• Kirsten Rawls (MSU Denver ’16) is a systems engineer with the Space Systems division of Lockheed Martin
• Vina Sitthisay (Applied Math conc., Math, ’18) is a Senior Data Engineer at Lockheed Martin Space