What Counts at Pitt... Pitt offers a number of many different options for students interested in mathematics. Not only can you choose a major which focuses solely on mathematics or statistics, but you can also pursue a joint major which will give you both a mathematics and humanities focus to your education. The Department of Mathematics offers or co-sponsors the following majors: Mathematics — This major is very flexible. After taking a set of core classes, you, with the help of your advisor, can design your own upper-level curriculum, tailored to your interests and career goals. Actuarial Mathematics — This major can be characterized as a degree program in applied mathematics with a focus on financial models. Applied Mathematics — This major is more defined than the mathematics major. After completing a core set of classes, you will take in-depth courses in modeling, numerical methods, and differential equations. Scientific Computing — This major was designed in response to the growing call for more people trained in this increasingly important, interdisciplinary field. Joint majors, like the ones below, differ from double majors. Instead of completing the requirements for both majors, as you would with a double major, you complete a specially designed combination of core courses from each department and a number of upper-level electives and earn one joint major. Mathematics and economics Mathematics and philosophy Additionally, the Department of Statistics offers a major for numerically interested students. The core coursework is designed to give you a background in both theory and application. However, after completing the core coursework, you can elect to focus on one area. Mathematics or statistics majors make ideal candidates for the School of Arts and Sciences/Business Dual Major. Both majors require you to analyze problems and determine logical solutions. The skills you learn in your math courses are also necessary in business. It's More Than Theory... Pitt's Departments of Mathematics and Statistics were pioneers in the development of computer-aided mathematics teaching. How does that affect your experience in the classroom? Computers are used to augment textbook readings and classroom lectures in calculus courses, for example, as well as a number of upper-level courses. Recitations are conducted in state-of-the-art computer labs. You will get first-hand experience using current software to solve mathematical problems. In the upper-level courses, students also use computers to model complex theoretical problems and solutions. Studying math at Pitt will give you background and practical experience in the problem-solving techniques used in the professional world. After Graduation... A few undergraduate mathematics and statistics majors go on to graduate school. However, the majority find jobs in industry. In addition to traditional jobs as actuaries or accountants, math majors also find jobs in the computer field, management, quality control, and research. The rigors of studying mathematics also make math majors good candidates for law school or other graduate programs, such as public health or business administration which require good analytical skills. The University of Pittsburgh offers 14 graduate schools, which include specializations in these graduate programs and others. Early Teaching... If you are interested in teaching mathematics, Pitt's program is ideal. The mathematics major has the flexibility for you to design your curriculum to best suit the requirements for a teaching certificate. In addition, Pitt has a number of programs that enable students to go to local grade schools and assist teachers. Not only will you get practical experience before you graduate, but you will also be making valuable contacts in your field. After obtaining your four-year degree, you can complete your fifth year, post-baccalaureate certification over two additional terms. Students completing the program earn their Instructional I Certificate. Or, you can pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching in the intensive, 48-credit program. The University Honors College The University Honors College (UHC) offers a number of courses in mathematics and statistics. UHC courses are not intended to be more advanced than regularly offered courses. However, they are designed to be more challenging and give students a more in-depth perspective on the subject matter. They are also usually smaller and more like seminars than lectures. The UHC offers a Bachelor of Philosophy degree which requires students to do an independent research project and defend their thesis in front of a faculty review panel.