Northern Illinois University
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

As one of the oldest and most fundamental sciences...

Mathematics is still the basis for understanding and solving the planet’s economic, scientific, engineering, physics, and business problems.  It is also one of the most dynamic fields in which to work.  Mathematicians use computational techniques, algorithms, and the latest technology to meet the ever-increasing demand for data analysis and statistical information.  At NIU, you’ll not only learn the fundamentals, but will also choose electives that prepare you for graduate or professional school or one of dozens of exciting careers in this challenging and vital field. 

Where it all adds up

Distinguished Faculty

Reflecting the dual teaching/research role of a major university, our professors are not only nationally recognized researchers, but award-winning teachers, as well. Most mathematics majors will never have a math class with more than 25 students, and they will be taught by regular faculty, not graduate assistants.

Ready for a Real Challenge?

In addition to NIU’s Honors Program, we have our own Honors program, which recognizes students who excel in their studies. We also offer master’s and doctoral degrees, programs for which our graduates are very well prepared, whether they pursue these degrees with us or at another institution. 

Not Just About the Numbers

There are plenty of opportunities to learn beyond the classroom, too. You might work with faculty on research projects or complete an internship with a leading corporation. You could compete in local and national mathematics competitions or join our Math Club for stimulating discussions, tours of local labs, movie nights and socializing with other majors. Or, come to one of our Friday afternoon seminars to hear distinguished professors and graduate students present on a variety of topics. 

Doing the Math

Recognizing that mathematics is one of the most challenging subjects, we offer one-on-one and group tutoring in our Mathematics Tutoring Center. Topic sessions are offered throughout the week, summarizing main points and answering questions posed in the previous week’s material. Exam review sessions and practice exams are also offered.

“I wouldn’t be the student I
am if it wasn’t for the
Mathematics Tutoring Center.
It has significantly improved my grade
and helped me understand the
concepts of calculus.”

What can I do with this degree?

Actuarial and Insurance

• Actuary
• Benefits Specialist
• Financial or Investment Analyst

Applications Programmer

• Computational Scientist
• Computer Applications Software Engineer
• Computer Programmer
• Computer Systems Analyst
• Database Administrator

Operations Research

• Operations Research Analyst
• Systems Engineer

Statistics

• Biometrician
• Demographer
• Econometrician
• Psychometrician
• Quality Control Analyst
• Statistician
• Business/Industry

Applied Mathematician

• Business Analyst
• Communications Engineer
• Economic Analyst
• Investment Manager
• Market Researcher
• Product Developer

Health

• Biomathematican
• Biomedical Engineer
• Ecologist

Emerging Fields

• Computational Biology and Genomics
• Data Mining
• Neuroscience
• Materials Science
• Computer Animation and Digital Imaging

Degree Information

The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers the B.S. degree with a major in mathematical sciences with emphases in general mathematical sciences, applied mathematics, computational mathematics, probability and statistics, mathematics education, and actuarial science. Successful completion of the emphasis in mathematics education leads to certification to teach at the 6-12 grade levels.

The department also offers minors in mathematical sciences, elementary mathematics education, applied probability and statistics, and actuarial science. These minors should be of interest to students majoring in the physical or social sciences or in business. In addition, the department offers an honors program in mathematical sciences and participates in the University Honors Program.

Who Studies Math?

• Marko Ahtisaari, Senior Vice-President of Design, Nokia
• Grace Lee Boggs, author, US National Women’s Hall of Fame
• Dave Farrell, Bassist for Linkin Park
• Ricky Gervais, comedian
• Teri Hatcher, actress
• Bruce Lee, actor and martial arts expert
• Gerald Levin, CEO of TimeWarner
• Ada Lovelace, created the symbols and codes for Charles Babbage’s early computer
• Steve Martin, actor and musician
• Peter Thiel, co-founded PayPal, hedge fund manager
• William Schulz, Executive Director, Amnesty International (USA)

Major Requirements
(40-42 hours)

• Degree with honors

Minor Requirements
(21-31 hours)

• Minor in Actuarial Science (29 hours)
• Minor in Applied Probability and Statistics (21-22 hours)
• Minor in Elementary Mathematics Education (23 hours)
• Certificate of Undergraduate Study of Actuarial Science (12 hours)

Contact Information

Department of Mathematical Sciences
Watson Hall 320
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, IL 60115

Phone: (815) 753-0566 
Fax: (815) 753-1112 

math.niu.edu

Have a question?
Email: math@math.niu.edu