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Mathematics

Degree Type
  • Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
Location
  • Main Campus in Radford, VA
Format
  • In-Person

Overview

Mathematics prepares you to think critically and solve complex problems across industries. At Radford University, our B.A. and B.S. in Mathematics combine rigorous mathematical foundations with flexible, career-focused pathways in data science, statistics, actuarial work, teaching, and research. You'll master modern tools like Python and R alongside calculus and advanced mathematics, and you’ll graduate with real-world experience through industry partnerships or teaching practicums.

two women

Degrees Offered

Why Study Mathematics at Radford?

  • Career-ready from day one: Graduate with real experience through our MATH 490 industry capstone (partnering with businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, or other partners) or early field teaching experiences for future educators.
  • Small classes, faculty mentorship: All classes taught by Ph.D. faculty (never graduate students) and capped at 25 students. Work directly with faculty on research projects leading to conference presentations and publications.
  • Modern skills meet timeless foundations: Master Python, R, and statistical computing alongside calculus, linear algebra, and mathematical reasoning. Build skills employers want in data science (36% job growth), actuarial work (22% growth), and teaching (Virginia's top-5 shortage area).
  • Flexible pathways without being locked in: Choose from data & decision sciences, statistics & applied analytics, actuarial & financial mathematics, teaching, or graduate preparation—or combine interests as your goals evolve.

Admissions Requirements

Students who are accepted into Radford University are guaranteed admission into the Mathematics degree program.

Research Opportunities for Mathematics Students at Radford

At Radford University, mathematics students don't just learn theory—they actively contribute to mathematical research and scholarship alongside faculty mentors.

Undergraduate Research Experiences:

  • Faculty-mentored research projects: Work one-on-one with professors on original research in areas like mathematical modeling, statistics, cryptography, number theory, and computational mathematics.
  • Conference presentations: Present your research at regional and national conferences, including meetings of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA), Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and other professional organizations.
  • Publication opportunities: Co-author research papers with faculty for publication in peer-reviewed journals such as the Electronic Journal of Mathematics and Technology (eJMT).
  • Honors College research: Mathematics students in the Radford University Honors College conduct independent research projects and complete honors theses.
  • Industry capstone projects: Through MATH 490, partner with regional businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, government agencies, or other partners to tackle real-world problems using mathematical modeling, data analysis, and statistical methods.

Why Research Matters:

Undergraduate research strengthens your graduate school applications, builds critical thinking and communication skills, and demonstrates to employers that you can solve complex, open-ended problems. Many of our students who pursue research go on to M.S. and Ph.D. programs or enter careers requiring advanced analytical skills.

Careers and Internships

Mathematics graduates from Radford University are prepared for high-demand careers across industries, education, and public service. Our flexible pathways and hands-on capstone experiences connect you directly to employers and career opportunities.

Career Opportunities Include:

  • Data & Decision Sciences: Data scientist, business intelligence specialist, operations research analyst, analytics professional
  • Statistics & Applied Analytics: Biostatistician, policy analyst, market researcher, data analyst
  • Actuarial & Financial Mathematics: Actuary, risk analyst, quantitative finance professional, data modeler
  • Mathematics Education: Secondary mathematics teacher (grades 6-12), curriculum developer, instructional coach, education leader
  • Graduate Study & Research: M.S./Ph.D. programs in mathematics, statistics, data science, or mathematics education; research positions in academia, government, or industry

Why the Outlook is Strong:

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023-2033 projections):

  • Data scientists: 36% job growth (much faster than average)
  • Actuaries: 22% job growth
  • Mathematicians and statisticians: 11% job growth
  • Operations research analysts: 23% job growth
  • Secondary mathematics teachers: Consistently ranked as a top-5 shortage area in Virginia

Median salary for mathematicians and statisticians: $104,860 per year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Real-World Experience Before Graduation:

Through our MATH 490 industry capstone, students partner with regional businesses, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, government agencies, or other partners to solve authentic problems. Teacher preparation students gain classroom experience through early field placements and student teaching. You'll graduate with a portfolio of real work—not just a transcript.

Related Programs

You can learn about mathematics anywhere in the world

In 2018, 2024, and 2026, Radford University students visited London and Bletchley Park as part of a faculty-led trip to study the mathematics used by the Bletchley Park codebreakers, led by Alan Turing, to break the German Enigma Cipher in World War II.

student writing equations on a transparent erasable board

Ready to Study at Radford?

We want to get to know you better and we are excited that you are ready to take your next step and learn more about us. We are here to help you and look forward to working with you during your college search process.