University of St. Thomas

When asked what one word best describes the mathematics major at St. Thomas, a faculty member responded, “engaging!”

A real student asks:

 

Are all math majors in love with their calculators?

A mathematics faculty member responds: Math majors are in love with the idea that calculations and other mathematical constructs can contribute to the solution of so many real-world problems, including the control of disease and the analysis of personal or business risk. Calculations are done on a laptop, a supercomputer, a calculator or with pencil and paper. As long as they are helpful in developing new knowledge or solving an existing problem, math majors will be at the forefront of this work..

What jobs are possible with a Mathematics major?

What are recent graduates doing now?

Johnathon Nelson ’07, an honors graduate, joined the University of Notre Dame’s Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program where he will complete a master’s degree and teach for two years in a rural area of Louisiana. 

Katherine Ignagni ’00, an honors graduate, has successfully completed the rigorous examinations necessary to become a fellow of the Society of Actuaries and works for Allianz Life.

What opportunities are there to bolster my resume while I'm in the program?

Internships. Students in our actuarial science program have enjoyed a large number of internships with insurance and consulting companies with whom the department has ties. Mathematics majors also have found internships and summer research opportunities.

Study abroad. Mathematics is taught worldwide, so students in our discipline can easily find courses taught abroad that will fit with their major. In addition, the wonderful cultural experiences and the communication skills developed during a stay in another country provide additional strength for students going into the work force or graduate or professional education.

Faculty at work

Faculty members in mathematics, including actuarial science, all have rich programs of research that include student collaborators. Currently two research groups that include undergraduate partners are involved in studies of tumor development and severe storm forecasting. Other recent student projects have included nerve transmission and the management of risk in selecting Social Security benefits. The department’s Center for Applied Mathematics regularly supports student researchers during the summer and sponsors an annual Summer Student Research Award.