Oregon State University

What you'll study

This programme combines a solid foundation in core mathematics with specialised coursework in numerical analysis and scientific computing. You will progress through the calculus sequence, linear algebra and differential equations before advancing to courses in real analysis, probability and statistics, and abstract algebra that build mathematical maturity.

• Core mathematical foundations – multivariable calculus, linear algebra, ordinary differential equations and real analysis.
• Computational and applied courses – numerical analysis, numerical linear algebra, numerical solutions of partial differential equations, scientific computing and mathematical modelling.
• Programming and software – practical computing skills using languages and tools common to the discipline (for example Python, MATLAB, or similar), algorithmic thinking and software practices for reproducible computation.
• Statistics and data-focused options – probability, statistical inference and elective courses in data analysis and machine learning suitable for computational applications.
• Capstone experiences – options typically include a senior project, practicum, or supervised undergraduate research working with faculty on a computational problem in science, engineering or industry.

Majors choose electives to tailor the degree toward areas such as scientific computing, computational physics, numerical finance, optimization, or data science. There are opportunities to combine the major with minors or certificates in computer science, statistics, engineering or domain areas throughout the university.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong preparation in high‑school mathematics, typically including precalculus and calculus. Successful candidates present evidence of quantitative ability — for example, advanced coursework or strong grades in calculus and related subjects. Incoming students with prior college credit may be placed into higher level courses after assessment.

• Academic preparation – strong performance in secondary school mathematics; completion of first‑year calculus is beneficial for early progress in the major.
• Recommended subjects – calculus, physics and computer science or programming where available.
• Transfer students – should provide college transcripts showing completed coursework in calculus and other prerequisites; course equivalencies are evaluated during admission and advising.
• International applicants – will need to meet the university's general enrolment and English language proficiency requirements.

Specific admission criteria and placement policies are set by Oregon State University and can vary by applicant type; prospective students should consult the university's admissions pages and the Department of Mathematics for detailed guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a computational mathematics degree are well positioned for roles that require quantitative analysis, modelling and computational implementation. Common career paths include:

• Data scientist or analyst – applying statistical and computational methods to extract insights from data.
• Software and algorithm developer – building numerical software, simulation tools and optimisation routines.
• Computational scientist / engineer – developing and applying models for problems in physics, engineering, climate science and biology.
• Quantitative finance and risk analysis – modelling financial systems and pricing derivatives.
• Actuarial work, operations research and optimisation roles.
• Graduate study and research – many graduates continue to MSc or PhD programmes in mathematics, applied mathematics, computer science, statistics or engineering.

Employers of graduates include technology companies, engineering firms, government research labs, financial institutions and start‑ups; undergraduate research experience and internships markedly strengthen employability.

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers a mathematics curriculum with a strong emphasis on computational and applied skills, taught by faculty active in numerical analysis, modelling and interdisciplinary research. The programme benefits from close connections with computer science, statistics and engineering departments, enabling students to take complementary coursework and participate in collaborative projects.

• Undergraduate research and capstones – many students engage in supervised research projects or industry collaborative projects that provide practical experience.
• Computing resources and practical training – access to campus computing facilities and software used in scientific computing and data analysis.
• Career support and internships – the university's career services and departmental networks help students find internships and employment in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
• Flexible study pathways – opportunities to combine the major with minors or certificates in computer science, statistics, engineering or domain sciences to match career goals.

Together, these features make Oregon State University's Computational Mathematics emphasis a strong choice for students who want rigorous mathematics training with practical computational skills for science, industry and data‑driven careers.