The BA in Mathematical Sciences allows students to flexibly design a course of study that fits their individual interests, with options to emphasize either breadth or depth. Students are encouraged to gain experience in several areas of mathematics. Core areas include Analysis, Algebra, and Geometry/Topology. Additional areas include Actuarial Science, Statistics, Combinatorics, Computer Science, and related fields. Students must complete one upper-level course from each of the three core areas, plus two additional upper-level courses. To obtain a BA degree in mathematical sciences with the mathematics track, a student must complete a minimum of 40 credits of coursework.

The BS degree program is more intensive and provides excellent preparation for graduate study in mathematics and related disciplines. Students considering a BS degree should consult with their academic advisors as early as possible and plan their schedules carefully to meet the demanding requirements. To obtain a BS degree in mathematical sciences with the mathematics track, a student must complete a minimum of 64 credits of coursework

Data science and statistics focus on turning raw data into reliable insight and decisions in the presence of uncertainty. This field combines statistical modeling, computing, and domain knowledge, with applications across the natural and social sciences, business, engineering, and the humanities.

The BA track in Data Science & Statistics is designed to provide a strong mathematical and statistical foundation together with modern data-science tools, while leaving room for a second major or minor. Students complete core coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability, mathematical statistics, regression, and statistical learning, together with a computing-intensive course and a practical experience in data analysis (for example, an internship, research project, or consulting course).

This track works especially well in combination with majors such as computer science, biology, psychology, economics, finance, accounting, management, or other social and natural sciences. To obtain a BA degree in mathematical sciences with the Data Science & Statistics track, students must complete the required core and elective courses described in the University Bulletin and on the departmental planning sheets. Approximate number of credits is 52–56.

The BS track in Data Science & Statistics is a more intensive program aimed at students who want a deeper mathematical and computational background for graduate study or technically demanding careers in data science, statistics, or related fields.

In addition to the core courses shared with the BA track (calculus, linear algebra, probability, mathematical statistics, regression, statistical learning, and computing), BS students take further upper-level mathematics and statistics, such as real analysis, advanced linear algebra, optimization, stochastic processes, or related topics. They also complete additional advanced electives and a practical experience in data analysis.

Students considering the BS track are strongly encouraged to consult with their academic advisors early and to plan their schedules carefully to meet the more demanding requirements. To obtain a BS degree in mathematical sciences with the Data Science & Statistics track, students must complete all required core and elective coursework specified in the University Bulletin and departmental degree-planning materials. Approximate number of credits is 64–68.

The track in Actuarial Science is designed to prepare students for an actuarial career. Actuaries use probability models to quantify uncertainty and risk in business problems. Actuaries assemble and analyze data related with risks to answer questions such as how much to charge policy-holders for auto, life or health insurances, how to set up retirement plans, how to formulate investment strategies in light of future risks. They provide an evaluation of risk for their companies for strategic decisions.

Because of the crucial role in such decision making, actuaries are rewarded accordingly; salaries offered to actuaries are substantial, and there is ample opportunity for advancement in the actuarial profession. Moreover, actuarial careers often lead to upper management and executive positions.

Refer to the Math department section on actuarial sciences for more detailed information.

Professional advancement results from passing a series of examinations administered by the actuarial societies and by the completion of specific courses approved by the actuarial societies. The BA track in Actuarial Science requires 10.5 courses in Mathematical Sciences (that is 10 full-semester courses and one half-semester course) and 2 courses in Economics.

To obtain a BA degree in mathematical sciences with an actuarial science track, a student must complete 42 credits of coursework, including 10.5 courses in Mathematical Sciences and two courses in Economics. The BS degree with an actuarial science track requires 58 credits of coursework, including 14.5 courses in Mathematical Sciences and 4 courses in Economics.

In the technology-oriented climate of today, mathematicians and statisticians have excellent employment opportunities. Our graduates are employed not only in mathematics teaching and research, and in the traditional fields of physics, chemistry, computer science, and engineering, but also, and increasingly, in business, economics, environmental sciences, geology, biology and the health sciences among others.

The following websites below provide some resources on the career perspective for math and stats graduates.

• What Do Mathematicians Do?
• What Do Statisticians Do?
• What Do Actuaries Do?

For students who are interested in becoming math teachers, Binghamton offers:

• An undergraduate minor in Education
• A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Mathematics Adolescent Education; Either the BA (Mathematics Track) or BS (Mathematics Track) is suitable for preparing this MAT program.
• Here is a list of recommended courses for future math teachers.