Mathematics is the language of logic, precision, and discovery — and the people who speak it fluently are in demand everywhere. GCU's B.A. in Mathematics gives you a rigorous foundation in pure and applied mathematics, with the option to specialize in Data Science through a focused concentration. Whether you're headed to graduate school, a quantitative career, or the classroom, this program gives you the analytical power to get there.
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GCU's Mathematics major offers two distinct tracks. The standard B.A. in Mathematics provides a rigorous, classical foundation in calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, abstract algebra, and real analysis — ideal for students headed to graduate school or teaching careers. The new Data Science Concentration adds Python programming, data analytics, machine learning, and database systems to the mathematical core, positioning you at the intersection of mathematics and one of the most in-demand fields in the modern economy.
GCU's Mathematics program is one of the most natural paths to becoming a certified Math teacher in New Jersey. Students pursuing K–12 teacher certification complete the major alongside required education coursework, with specific recommended courses (MA321 Foundations of Geometry and MA400 Math for Secondary School Teachers) built into the certification pathway. Probability & Statistics I (MA331) is also strongly advised for education students. The program prepares you for both the mathematical content and the pedagogical practice of math teaching.
The Mathematics major at GCU doesn't shy away from the deep end of the discipline. Required coursework takes you from Calculus I through Calculus III, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Abstract Algebra I & II, and Introduction to Real Analysis — the mathematical foundations that underlie computer science, physics, economics, engineering, and virtually every technical field. This is the kind of education that makes mathematicians, not just math users.
Mathematics is ultimately about original problem-solving — and GCU's small class environment supports that. Students with strong interests in specific mathematical areas can pursue independent research through MA414 Research Problem in Mathematics or professional experience through MA415 Internship/Externship Program. Working directly with faculty mentors on original mathematical problems or applied projects is an experience that distinguishes GCU math graduates on graduate school applications and competitive job searches.
Mathematics develops something irreplaceable: the ability to reason with precision, construct rigorous arguments, identify patterns in complex data, and solve problems that have no obvious solution. These skills are foundational to virtually every field that relies on quantitative thinking — from finance and insurance to computer science, physics, data science, operations research, and education.
GCU’s B.A. in Mathematics provides the rigorous classical foundation of the discipline — calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, abstract algebra, and real analysis — alongside the computational fluency that modern mathematical practice demands. Students complete CS123 Computer Programming I as part of the degree, ensuring they can translate mathematical thinking into code and computational models.
The program’s new Data Science Concentration reflects where mathematics meets the modern economy. Students in this track add Python programming, data analytics (CS212/IS312), machine learning (CS325), data visualization (CS350), database systems (CS231), and a research or internship capstone — while still completing a core of six mathematics courses including Calculus I, Calculus II, Calculus III, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, and Probability & Statistics I. The result is a mathematician who can work with data at scale — a genuinely distinctive and marketable combination.
Students pursuing NJ teacher certification in Mathematics complete the major sequence alongside education coursework that includes Foundations of Geometry (MA321) and Math for Secondary School Teachers (MA400) — a capstone course designed specifically to bridge college mathematics and secondary school teaching practice.
Faculty in the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science & Physics are accomplished researchers and dedicated mentors who work closely with students in small class settings. Independent research and externship opportunities are available for motivated students who want to go beyond coursework.
GCU’s B.A. in Mathematics is a great fit if you:
Mathematics graduates are among the most versatile in the workforce — the analytical and problem-solving skills developed in the major transfer across virtually every quantitative career.
Standard B.A. Track:
Data Science Concentration Track:
| Career | Entry Salary | Mid-Career Salary | Experienced Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematicians / Statisticians | $58,000–$75,000 | $104,600 | $130,000–$160,000+ |
| Data Scientists | $85,000–$105,000 | $131,400 | $160,000–$220,000+ |
| Actuaries | $70,000–$90,000 | $130,900 | $160,000–$200,000+ |
| Operations Research Analysts | $58,000–$72,000 | $94,800 | $115,000+ |
| High School Math Teachers | $52,000–$62,000 | $76,200 | $90,000–$105,000+ |
Job Outlook
New Jersey is home to major employers in pharmaceutical research, insurance, financial services, and government — all significant employers of mathematicians and statisticians.
To earn this degree, students must successfully complete at least 120 credits, including General Education requirements and the major requirements below.
There are two options: B.A. in Mathematics (without Data Science concentration), and B.A. in Mathematics with Data Science concentration. In both cases, a minimum 2.00 GPA in the major is required to graduate.
A minimum of 33 mathematics credits, plus CS123, are required, including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics Courses | ||
| MA115 | Calculus I | 4.0 |
| MA116 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| MA209 | Linear Algebra | 3.0 |
| MA210 | Discrete Mathematics | 3.0 |
| MA215 | Calculus III | 4.0 |
| MA311 | Introduction to Abstract Algebra I | 3.0 |
| MA312 | Introduction to Abstract Algebra II | 3.0 |
| MA401 | Introduction to Analysis | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following two: 1 | 3.0 | |
MA216 | Vector Calculus | |
MA331 | Probability & Statistics I | |
| Mathematics elective | 3.0 | |
| Related Courses | ||
| CS123 | Computer Programming I | 4.0 |
| Total Credits | 37.0 | |
It is highly recommended that education majors take MA331 Probability & Statistics I.
For Teacher of Mathematics (K–12) certification, students follow the major sequence in mathematics but must also include MA321 Foundations of Geometry and MA400 Math for Secondary School Teachers and are advised to take MA331 Probability & Statistics I.
A minimum of 37 credits are required, of which 21 are core courses in mathematics, and the other 16 are courses in the data science concentration:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics Core Courses | ||
| MA115 | Calculus I | 4.0 |
| MA116 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| MA209 | Linear Algebra | 3.0 |
| MA210 | Discrete Mathematics | 3.0 |
| MA215 | Calculus III | 4.0 |
| MA331 | Probability & Statistics I | 3.0 |
| Data Science Concentration Courses | ||
| CS220 | Python Programming | 3.0 |
| Four Courses from Among the Following: | 12.0 | |
CS212/IS312 | Data Analytics for Business | |
CS231 | Introduction to Database Systems | |
| Capstone (select One from Among the Following): | 1.0 | |
CS414 | Research Problem in CS or CIS | |
CS415 | Internship | |
MA414 | Research Problem in Mathematics | |
MA415 | Internship/Externship Program | |
PH470 | Research Project | |
PH471 | Research in Physics | |
| Total Credits | 37.0 | |
Admissions Requirements First-Year Students
Transfer Students
NJ Teacher Certification Students pursuing K–12 Mathematics teacher certification must complete the standard B.A. in Mathematics track alongside education coursework including MA321 and MA400. See the Department of Education section of the catalog for full certification requirements.
By the time you earn your B.A. in Mathematics from GCU, you’ll be able to:
Q: What’s the difference between the standard Mathematics B.A. and the Data Science Concentration? A: The standard B.A. gives you a classical, rigorous foundation in pure mathematics — calculus through Calculus III, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, abstract algebra I & II, and real analysis. It’s ideal for students going to graduate school in mathematics or pursuing careers in teaching, actuarial science, or quantitative finance where deep mathematical theory matters. The Data Science Concentration replaces Abstract Algebra II and Real Analysis with a suite of applied courses — Python programming, data analytics, machine learning, and databases — while keeping the core calculus, linear algebra, discrete math, and statistics foundation. It’s designed for students who want to work in data science, analytics, or ML engineering roles. Both lead to the same B.A. degree; the concentration determines the emphasis.
Q: Can I become a math teacher with this degree? A: Yes — and GCU’s Mathematics program is one of the most direct paths to NJ Mathematics teacher certification. Students complete the standard B.A. Mathematics track alongside required education courses (including MA321 Foundations of Geometry and MA400 Math for Secondary School Teachers), complete 175 hours of clinical practice, and meet all other NJ certification requirements. MA331 Probability & Statistics I is strongly advised for education students. Talk to your academic advisor early about planning the certification sequence.
Q: What is abstract algebra, and why is it required? A: Abstract algebra is the study of mathematical structures — groups, rings, and fields — at a level of generality that underlies much of modern mathematics, computer science, and cryptography. It’s where mathematics becomes truly rigorous and formal, building the proof-based reasoning skills that distinguish mathematicians from calculators. It’s challenging — and one of the most intellectually rewarding courses in the curriculum. Students who thrive in Abstract Algebra often find that it reshapes how they think about structure and logic in ways that benefit them far beyond mathematics.
Q: What is actuarial science, and does this degree prepare me for it? A: Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to assess and manage risk — primarily in insurance and finance. It’s consistently ranked among the best careers in the country for job satisfaction, pay, and demand. GCU’s Mathematics degree provides an excellent foundation for actuarial careers, particularly through MA331 Probability & Statistics I, which covers content tested on the first actuarial exam (Exam P). Students interested in actuarial science should also consider adding coursework in finance and economics. GCU does not offer a dedicated actuarial program, but the Mathematics major is a strong foundation — speak with Dr. Aryal about how to plan an actuarial career path.
Q: What does the Data Science Concentration prepare me for specifically? A: The Data Science Concentration prepares you for roles as a data analyst, data scientist, machine learning engineer, or quantitative researcher in industry. You’ll graduate with Python programming skills, knowledge of machine learning methods (supervised, unsupervised, and deep learning), experience with data analytics tools, and a foundation in statistical reasoning — on top of a solid mathematical core. These are among the most in-demand skills in the current job market, and the mathematical depth of your training distinguishes you from graduates of purely applied data science programs.
Q: Can I do independent research in mathematics? A: Yes. MA414 Research Problem in Mathematics offers 1–4 credits for independent mathematical research — students may submit a historical analysis of a known problem or an original approach to a problem arising from coursework, under faculty supervision. Students may register more than once, up to 6 total credits. MA415 Internship/Externship provides a professional placement in an industrial or research setting (minimum 40 hours per credit). Both are excellent credentials for graduate school applications.
Q: Is this program good preparation for graduate school? A: Yes — both tracks prepare students well for graduate study, though the standard track provides stronger preparation for Ph.D. programs in pure mathematics or statistics. The coverage of abstract algebra and real analysis in the standard track provides exactly the theoretical depth that doctoral programs expect. The Data Science Concentration prepares students well for M.S. programs in data science, applied mathematics, statistics, or computer science. The research option (MA414) is a critical component of a competitive graduate school application.
Q: What GPA do I need to graduate? A: A minimum 2.0 GPA in the major is required to graduate from the Mathematics program — note that this is the university minimum, not a departmental honors threshold. Confirm with your advisor whether specific courses have minimum grade requirements.
Q: When should I apply? A: GCU uses rolling admissions — apply any time. Priority deadlines are November 1, January 1, and March 1. Applying early gives you the best access to merit scholarships, housing, and financial aid.
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