Mathematics Major Advice

Why major in mathematics?

Mathematics is more than a tool for making computations and solving problems. It’s a way of thinking that reveals patterns and symmetries, and makes connections between different abstract ideas. Many students are drawn to mathematics for its intellectual beauty, the clarity of its logic, the creativity of its abstractions, and the satisfaction of discovering elegant solutions. 

At the same time, a strong foundation in mathematics builds analytical and problem-solving skills that are highly valued across industries from business and government to technology and research. Mathematics majors pursue careers as actuaries, analysts, engineers, scientists, programmers, researchers, strategists, and more. For further exploration of career paths, visit the AMS Careers page and the SIAM Careers page. 

Interested in studying Mathematics at Midd?

Excellent!  Students can choose to follow either the General Mathematics track or the Applied Mathematics track.  The General Mathematics track provides students with breadth and depth in key areas of undergraduate mathematics while also providing flexibility to customize your major experience to suit your interests and potential future plans.

For an overview of the path through the major, see the infographic below.  

The core courses (blue boxes in the graphic above) in the major consist of the following. 

• Calculus Sequence courses: MATH 0122 Calculus II, MATH 0200 Linear Algebra, MATH 0223 Multivariable Calculus.
• Two 300-level core courses: MATH 0302 Abstract Algebra and MATH 0323 Real Analysis. Both of these courses are proof-based.

General Advice for Completing the Mathematics Major

• Complete the Calculus sequence as soon as possible
  • The core courses in the Calculus sequence (MATH 122, MATH 200 and MATH 223) are important prerequisites for many other MATH elective courses.
  • Students who start the Calculus sequence in MATH 0121 Calculus 1 only need to take 4 additional electives at the 200+ level (instead of 5) to complete the major.
  • See the Math Placement page for information about where you should begin in the Calculus Sequence.
• Take the Calculus sequence in the recommended order whenever possible.
  • MATH 122 Calculus II is recommended before MATH 200 Linear Algebra
  • MATH 200 Linear Algebra is recommended before MATH 223 Multivariable Calculus.
  • Whenever possible, avoid taking Calculus sequence courses concurrently. If you think you need to take some of the calculus sequence courses concurrently, please seek advice from a mathematics faculty member.
• If possible, take one 200-level proof-based elective before taking the 300-level core courses.
  • This will help prepare you for 300-level proof reading and writing.
  • Current 200-level proof-based electives include: MATH 0230 Euclidean and Non-Euclidean Geometry, MATH 0241 Elementary Number Theory, or MATH 0247 Graph Theory.
• Take at least one (and ideally both) of the 300-level core courses by the end of your junior year.
  • These electives set you up for a deeper understanding of material in electives and prepare you for senior work.
  • If you plan to study abroad junior year, make sure you complete at least one of the 300-level core courses before your abroad experience.
• Students are strongly encouraged to formally declare the math major (either general or applied track) by the beginning of their junior year at the latest.
  • This helps ensure that you have time to take any necessary courses to prepare  for your required senior seminar and that there will be a seat available for you in the seminar.
• Come see us!
  • Mathematics faculty are always happy to advise students interested in math courses.