Why Mathematics?

Mathematics is one of the most versatile and valuable majors you can choose. It provides a strong foundation for a wide range of careers and prepares you to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

As a math major, you develop skills that employers value: analytical thinking, problem-solving, logical reasoning, and the ability to tackle complex challenges. These skills are useful in almost every field, from finance and technology to healthcare, business, and scientific research.

Unlike degrees that prepare you for one specific career, a mathematics degree opens doors to many different paths. It gives you the flexibility to explore your interests, adapt to new technologies, and pursue opportunities that may not even exist today.

Students at the board

Why Math at Kent State?

At Kent State, you get the academic opportunities and resources of a large university along with the personal attention, small classes, and supportive community that help students thrive.

Our students benefit from small classes, accessible faculty who get to know them personally, and opportunities to participate in undergraduate research. Students can also gain valuable real-world experience through internships, exploring career options and building professional connections before graduation.

We offer several degree programs and concentrations, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Kent State also offers a dedicated B.S. in Actuarial Mathematics and is recognized by the Society of Actuaries for its Advanced Curriculum.

 

Students with rope at math day

Find Your Path in Mathematics

Majors: Mathematics; Applied Mathematics (including a concentration in Probability and Statistics); Actuarial Mathematics 

Minors: Mathematics; Applied Mathematics; Applied Statistics.

Our flexible programs allow students to combine mathematics and statistics with interests in computer science, finance, physics, economics, and other fields.

students with professor

What Our Students Say

“Great faculty. Genuinely felt that all of my professors were world-class.”

“The best outcome I have from my time as a math major at KSU was the relationships I have built with faculty. They pushed me to want to learn and do more. I hope to talk to some professors a long time after graduation.”

“I initially started off as a physics major, which was where my love for mathematics came into place. Switching to Applied Mathematics was the greatest choice I made!”

Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program

Kent State's Choose Ohio First (COF) program offers scholarships to Ohio students majoring in mathematics. Beyond financial support, COF scholars become part of a supportive community of fellow math students and faculty. Students have opportunities to work on mathematical research projects under faculty guidance, present their work at conferences and poster sessions, and participate in career-focused activities. The program helps students develop valuable skills, explore their interests, and prepare for future careers or graduate study.

Where Do Our Graduates Work?

Our graduates work in actuarial science, finance, data analytics, artificial intelligence, research, education, and many other fields. Many also pursue advanced degrees.

Insurance and Actuarial Science: Progressive, Nationwide, State Farm, Erie Insurance, Westfield Insurance, The Hartford, Farmers Insurance, Pacific Life, Aon, Willis Towers Watson, Oliver Wyman.

Finance and Business: KeyBank, BNY, Charles Schwab, Sherwin-Williams, Capital One, PNC Bank, CIBC, RBC, Valmark Financial Group, INSIGHT2PROFIT.

Technology, Data Science, and AI: Amazon, OpenBlock Labs, American Gaming Systems, Centerfield, Assurance IQ, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Peak Nano, Hendrickson Holdings.

Science, Research, and Education: NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland Clinic, Marshall University, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Virginia Tech, University of Rio Grande.

Beyond the Classroom

Math Club and Actuarial Math Club: Connect with fellow students through social events, mathematical activities, and professional development opportunities.

Undergraduate Research: Work with faculty on interesting mathematical problems and present your research.

Internships:  Apply mathematical knowledge in real-world settings and build professional connections.

Math Competitions, Seminars, and Special Events: Challenge yourself, discover new areas of mathematics, and join an active mathematical community.

Students solving rubik's cubes

 

 

Learn More

Dr. Ulrike Vorhauer, uvorhaue@kent.edu, Undergraduate Coordinator

Dr. Darci Kracht, dkracht@kent.edu, Actuarial Math Coordinator

Dr. Jenya Soprunova, esopruno@kent.edu, Department Chair