Mathematics Student
Undergraduate Major

Mathematics Major (BS)

Cultivate abstract thinking and problem-solving skills when you major in mathematics. You'll receive individualized attention from innovative professors as you pursue a track that best fits your career goals.

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  1. Academics
  2. Undergraduate Degree Programs
  3. Mathematics Major (BS)

At a Glance

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Offered as

Major​ & Minor

Format

On Campus

College/School
Campus Location
  • Chester, PA

On This Page

Explore the Mathematics Major 

Studying mathematics requires you to think critically, logically, and creatively to solve problems. At Widener, not only will you develop analytic skills you'll develop an analytic attitude through career-specific learning opportunities. Small classes allow you to receive individualized attention from faculty who care about your personal and professional goals. They'll help you persevere as you tackle advanced pure and applied mathematical problems.

Beyond the classroom, you'll have opportunities to engage in meaningful research projects that build powerful skills to bring with you into the workplace. Combined with internship opportunities in Philadelphia and beyond, you'll constantly be applying your knowledge to practical, real-world experiences. Customize your curriculum by choosing one of three tracks that's right for your career goals.

Program Options for Mathematics Majors

New, incoming students and transfer students with a few completed college credits will join the full-time, traditional undergraduate mathematics major track with the option to pursue three specializations within the mathematics major.

Program Details

  • Full-time, 4-year program (transfer students may complete their degree in 3-4 years, depending on accepted credits)
  • Completed in-person at our Chester, PA campus

Traditional Mathematics Specialization

Recommended for students considering graduate study, this option includes instruction in algebra, analysis, geometry, and statistics. This track offers sufficient flexibility for you to pursue a minor in a second area such as physics or economics.

See Loading... requirements for the traditional specialization.

Secondary Education Mathematics Specialization

This option includes the mathematics and education courses necessary for certification to teach mathematics at the secondary level.

See Loading... requirements for the secondary education mathematics specialization.

Mathematics & Computer Science Specialization

This option is recommended for students interested in applying the abstract and logical ideas of mathematics to the practical area of computer science.

See Loading... requirements for the mathematics and computer science specialization.

College is about exploration. At Widener, you'll complete a general education curriculum that supports just that. You'll have the flexibility and freedom to dive deep into the topics that spark curiosity, challenge your mind, and power your personal and academic growth. 

Along the way, you'll cultivate critical, meaningful skills employers seek, including:

  • How to make a difference in a diverse world with an inclusive mindset
  • How to write and edit for clear, compelling communication
  • How to analyze data and make decisions using critical thinking

It all starts with ASC 101: Thinking Through — a selection of around 40 course topics that will encourage you to go deeper and examine complex issues that shape our world and our ways of relating to one another. When you dive into the possibilities, you're sure to find multiple courses that inspire and intrigue you, regardless of whether they align with your major! Think of it as an opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and truly learn something new. Then, in your senior year, you'll come full circle with a capstone course that takes your Thinking Through topic to new heights strengthened by everything you've cultivated along your college journey.

Widener's pre-professional pathways give you the flexibility to follow your interests while preparing for a professional career. 

Mathematics majors can participate in the following pathways:

Through Widener’s Accelerated Advantage program, you can earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree with only one additional year of study—saving you valuable time and money. Master's degrees can be earned in allied health education (MEd), business administration (MBA), criminal justice (MCJ), organizational development and leadership (MA), and public administration (MPA).
 
While Widener does not offer a master’s degree in the same field as this major, you can still select from a variety of powerhouse master’s programs that will enhance your job opportunities and prepare you for rapid career growth.

Learn more about our Accelerated Advantage 4+1 Program

Interested in gaining real-world work experience before you graduate? As a student, you can tap into powerful networks of faculty mentors, alumni, and Career Design & Development professionals to find your perfect fit.

You'll have multiple opportunities to gain internship or externship support, including the Widener Works program—an externship program that takes place over winter break. Widener also offers an Experience MORE program which helps financially support students who have unpaid or low-paying internships.  

Learn more about internships

Pair Your Mathematics Major with a Minor or Certificate

Mathematics Secondary Education Certification

Advantages

Obtain a secondary education certification in mathematics and graduate ready to mentor the next generation of mathematicians. 

Outcome

Math Teacher

Economics Minor

Advantages

Develop an understanding of how an economy functions and how to spot trends and opportunities in finance or business.

Outcome

Economist

Astrophysics Minor

Advantages

Apply your knowledge of mathematics into an understanding of astronomy and the scientific workings of the universe.

Outcome

Aerospace Engineer

Accounting Minor

Advantages

Grow your knowledge of how to create, maintain, and audit a detailed and accurate report of an organization’s finances.

Outcome

Auditor

Computer Science Minor

Advantages

Expand your knowledge of how computers function through coding and advanced math courses.

Outcome

Cryptographer

Finance Minor

Advantages

Gain insight into economic, social, and entrepreneurial methods to provide investment advice and create financial plans for clients.

Outcome

Actuary

Career Outlooks & Outcomes

Potential Careers

  • Banking
  • Actuarial science
  • Government security
  • Engineering
  • Economics

Industry Growth

Job outlook for math occupations is projected to grow 28% by 2030 as businesses and government agencies continue to develop their data analytics programs.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Why Study Mathematics at Widener?

Two students sitting on bed studying in dorm

Gain Leadership Opportunities

Solidify your own learning by tutoring others in our Math Center. You'll develop interpersonal and leadership skills guiding your fellow students through their mathematics courses. Take those experiences out into the world when you attend conferences like the Mathematical Association of America meetings and network with professionals in your field. 

Two computer programmers working on a project in a computer lab

Learn With State-of-the-Art Technology

From the use of online homework systems such as MyLab in introductory classes to complex computer algebra systems like Mathematica in upper-division study, you'll gain fluency on the professional-grade software used in the field.

Professor mentoring student

Experience Mentorship & Support From Day One

We want to get to know you and see you succeed. Professors will pay attention to how you learn and what you want to accomplish. Your Personal Student Success Team—faculty and peer mentors and liaisons for campus resources—will make sure your first year runs smoothly.

Without skipping a beat, you’ll have what you need to make Widener your second home. And you’ll know how to invest in the greater community, from professional opportunities in Philadelphia to volunteer experiences in your new backyard.

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Our Faculty

Kalpa Madhawa Thudewaththag
Kalpa Thudewaththage
Assistant Teaching Professor

If you are thinking mathematics is a complicated subject. We are here as math educators to disprove it. The truth is mathematics makes our life easy. Each time you learn a new mathematical concept, you uncover a mystery which means you learn more about your world. It is a great tool to understand the world.

Dana Olanoff
Dana Olanoff
Chair, Mathematics Department

"My role as a mathematics teacher is to help students make sense of mathematics and develop conceptual understanding. I do this by helping students become actively involved in their learning through solving new and challenging problems rather than passively absorbing information."

Neil A. Watling
Neil Watling
Associate Professor

"My main goals in teaching are to increase students' understanding, ability, and appreciation of mathematics. I hope they also leave with a curiosity and fascination in the subject. Even now, I am still discovering new connections and new ways to understand and relate the many different areas of mathematics."

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Admissions & Aid

Our admissions and financial aid teams are here to support you every step of the way. Have a question? Ask away!

Admissions

Applying to Widener is easy—and free! Simply complete our Widener Application or the Common Application. You'll also need your official high school transcript and either an admissions essay or your SAT/ACT scores. We're a test-optional school, so there's no need to submit both.

Know you're interested in applying to Widener but unsure if you're ready to zero-in on a major? You can apply as an Exploratory Studies student with an undecided major. This program will help you start your college journey on the right foot while you explore which undergraduate program is the right fit for you.

When to Apply​

We accept applications on a rolling basis—there are no hard deadlines. Apply when you're ready and we'll take a look as soon as we receive your app. 

Key dates to keep in mind:​

  • October 1: FAFSA opens for the next academic year (Widener's school code is 003313)​
  • November 1: Early Action deadline and decision notifications begin​

What to Expect After Applying​

Once we receive your application and all materials, you can expect to hear back from us quickly. Along with your application decision, you'll also find out about any merit-based scholarship awards. You're automatically considered for merit scholarships as soon as you apply—you don't need to apply separately.

Learn more about the application process

If you apply before November 1, you are considered an Early Action applicant which comes with benefits like:

  • Receiving your admissions decision by Thanksgiving
  • Early consideration for merit-based scholarships
  • Early notification of financial aid offers, including need-based awards
  • Priority enrollment for summer registration—where you sign up for classes!

All applications are non-binding, so why wait? Apply today!

Our admissions team will help you make the most of college-level credits earned after high school. We maintain strong partnerships and articulation agreements with numerous local community colleges and also accept a wide range of course credits earned at accredited colleges and universities.

Curious about how many credits may transfer? Email your transcripts to transfer@widener.edu and our transfer coordinator will personally review your coursework as an unofficial credit evaluation. Applicants are given priority during busy seasons, but you don't have to apply to work with our transfer coordinator. 

Transferring doesn't have to be a guessing game—share your stats and we'll take it from there! 

Learn more about applying as a transfer student

Widener University serves as a "second home" for students from around the world. We are located just outside of Philadelphia and close to New York City and Washington, D.C.—offering many unique professional and personal opportunities to explore.

Want to know what it's like to be an international student on campus or need assistance navigating English proficiency requirements? We're here to help, and our international admissions director will support you through the application process. 

This support doesn't end with admissions—our International Student Support team will serve as a valuable resource throughout your Widener journey—meeting Visa/immigration requirements, getting acclimated to campus, and much more.

Learn more about applying as an international student
Learn more about life at Widener as an international student

Financial Aid

Because Widener is a private institution, we're able to offer financial assistance that brings an exceptional education within reach. Complete your admissions application today to determine your financial aid package, including scholarships and grants.

Widener FAFSA Code 003313

Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to getting you the financial assistance to make the cost of college—an investment in your future—affordable. This free, online application is the gateway to grants, loans, and other forms of financial aid. Every year, the U.S. Department of Education offers billions of dollars in financial aid to eligible students. Widener gets in on the action, too, annually awarding aid to students with need. 

You and at least one parent or caregiver will need a separate FSA ID to access the Federal Student Aid's online system and serve as your legal signatures. Make sure to create your unique FSA IDs before you get started. Our school code is 003313.

 

    Paths to Savings

    Nearly 100% of Undergrad Students Receive Financial Aid

    Nearly 100% of new full-time undergraduate students receive significant financial aid offers that reduce out-of-pocket costs and make a Widener education not only affordable, but well worth the investment. In fact, once your total financial aid is calculated, the cost of a Widener education is often equal to if not lower than other competitive universities–but with far superior outcomes for your career and earning potential.

    The first step to see how much aid you qualify for is submitting the FAFSA.

    Scholarships Start at $100,000 Over 4 Years

    (including $20,000 per academic year for transfer students)

    Funding you don't have to pay back after graduation? That's a win-win! Scholarships and grants are a way for the university and other organizations to honor the academic, merit, and talent-based achievements of our students.

    4+1 Students Save Time & Tuition

    In the Accelerated Advantage 4+1 program, you can save up to a year of tuition by pursuing a master's degree—resulting in thousands of dollars in savings. During your fifth year of study, you can also apply for graduate-level scholarships and assistantships to further reduce education costs. To learn more about graduate scholarships and assistantships, please speak with your academic advisor during the spring semester of your senior year.

    More About Tuition & Financial Aid

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    Request Information

    Have a question about Widener? Drop us a line and an admissions counselor will be in touch. We're always happy to help!​

    Tuition & Financial Aid

    Because Widener is a private institution, we're able to offer financial assistance that brings an exceptional education within reach. Complete your admissions application today to determine your financial aid package, including scholarships and grants.

    Apply

    Applying online has never been easier—and it’s free! We also accept the Common Application. Take the next step toward joining the Widener Pride.

    Get in Touch

    Explore All Undergrad Programs Undecided? Check Out Exploratory Studies

    Those interested in the traditional mathematics track or the math and computer science track should contact the mathematics department directly. Those interested in math secondary education track should contact Dr. Dana Olanoff.