Why Study Mathematics at K?
Innovative instruction, experiential learning, and collaborative research enable math students at K to go above and beyond in their studies.
As a mathematics student, you will learn how to describe, analyze, and interpret phenomena in theory and real-world application. By strengthening your quantitative and abstract reasoning skills, you will develop a critical mind and an appreciation for the many ways math permeates into modern society.
During your four years with the department, you will take classes in calculus, quantitative reasoning (E.g., Discrete Mathematics), statistics (E.g., Applied Statistics), and programming (E.g., Automata, Formal Languages, and Computability), as well as courses that contextualize the history, application, and implications of mathematical findings (E.g., Getting to X: Math & Some of Its History).
Outside of the classroom, you are encouraged to participate in lectures, conferences, competitions, and research opportunities to supplement your coursework and expose you to post-graduation mathematics careers. Additionally, the department ensures that you are able to apply your knowledge in your own life through the completion of your Senior Integrated Project and structured reflections on your own experiences with mathematics.
The lessons you learn will prepare you for successful lifelong engagement with mathematics, whether through applied work in industry or government; research in mathematics, statistics, or one of the other mathematical sciences; teaching; or applying mathematics in the physical, computing or social sciences.
What can you do with a Mathematics degree?
Below are some of the careers, employers, and graduate schools of our mathematics alumni.
Careers
- Data Scientist
- Software Engineer
- Research Assistant
- Professor/Teacher
- Actuary
Employers
- PNC
- Federal Reserve Bank of New York
- Morgan Stanley
- The Kresge Foundation
Graduate Schools
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- North Carolina State University
- University of California, Berkley
- Columbia University
Program Spotlights
Join a community of mathematicians
At K, you are not alone in your learning as you will get to know your classmates and professors on a personal level. Outside of class, office hours, and advisor meetings, you will connect with your professors at the department’s weekly “tea time,” filled with conversation, snacks and community. Academically, our students support one another through tutoring at the Math Physics Center, peer support for underrepresented groups in STEM at Sukuma, and working together to solve complex problems and compete with other schools across the country in MathletiKs.
Study abroad in Budapest, Hungary
While you can choose from any of the College’s 50+ study abroad options and transfer any relevant classes, the Budapest Semester in Mathematics program offers a unique opportunity for our students. During your two terms in the capital of Hungary, you will take math, physics and computer science courses at Eötvös Loránd University, explore the city’s rich history and culture, and have the opportunity to travel across the region.
Graduate knowing you have the skills to thrive
All K students gain tangible skills for their future careers by completing their Senior Integrated Project (SIP). Many of our math students have used this as an opportunity to conduct independent research at K or another institution, complete a practical data analysis project, or participate in and reflect on an industry internship. For example, Ruth Butters ‘22 looked at how data science can be used to improve communities in her SIP, “The Data of Community Safety,” where she calculated and visualized county rates of homelessness, fatal police shootings, and Covid vaccinations in Michigan.
Meet the Current Departmental Student Advisor
Xavier Silva (He/Him/His)
Majors: Mathematics and Computer Science
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
The best part about the math department is that the professors are great to work with!
What is your biggest piece of advice to first-years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
Come to the weekly Wednesday tea time! It’s a great way to causally connect with both other students and professors while enjoying snacks!
What has been your favorite class at K? Why?
My favorite class at K was number theory with Dr. Oloo. The class involved very little lecturing and instead involved working in small groups.
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
My SIP will be research with Dr. Oloo to analyze the mathematical structure of icosahedral viruses and their deformations. We will also be collaborating with Dr. Dave in the physics department whose lab focuses on icosahedral viruses.