Mathematics

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Mathematicians and those with mathematical inclination are inherently problem solvers. Through course work and individual faculty-student work, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers the mechanism to develop and refine problem solving skills and creative thinking skills that are vitally important for the demands of the job market and society in general.

  • Opportunities to get involved with research projects
  • Small classes
  • Close interaction with award-winning faculty
  • Chance to be awarded a scholarship within your major
  • Develop top-notch problem solving skills

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics enables students to develop the skills in analytical and logical reasoning needed to succeed in today’s world, where technology is an ever-expanding part of everyday life. We offer opportunities for students to build a strong foundation in core mathematical areas and a number of specializations to prepare our students for fulfilling careers. Our faculty bring their research into the classroom, allowing students to see many of the ways in which mathematics is used in different fields. Beyond our introductory classes, many of our classes are small, allowing for engaging interactions between the faculty and students.

We offer several tracks for our students to facilitate satisfying and rewarding careers or continuing graduate studies. These tracks include statistics, education, pure math and applied math.

Mathematics-based jobs — mathematician, statistician and actuary — have routinely occupied the top few slots in recent studies of the “best jobs” as reported in the Wall Street Journal over the past several years. In 2014, mathematician ranked No.1. A degree in mathematics prepares students for a wide variety of careers, including statistician or research scientist in a government laboratory or just about any type of company, including pharmaceutical, manufacturing and technology, research programmer, risk analyst and actuarial scientist for financial or insurance companies, and educator.

Proficiency with mathematics and analytical reasoning is a highly desired skill, especially when combined with a background in a secondary field, such as business, computing or a branch of science. A mathematics degree combined with training (such as a minor or second major) in another field is especially attractive to employers, as it indicates stronger quantitative skills than a typical practitioner within that other field, and an ability to see broader links between technology and society.

In 2014, the department awarded more than $19,000 in scholarships to math majors; roughly that amount is awarded to students each year. There are often opportunities for students to work with faculty in both research and teaching. Many of our students regularly attend conferences and summer research programs locally and nationally. The department runs an informal seminar series aimed at students, and undergraduates regularly give presentations at meetings.

Nigel Pitt

Department Chair


Neville Hall, Room 237
207.581.3901
| um.mathchair@maine.edu

Mathematics

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences


Neville Hall, Room 333
207.581.3900

A photo of a professor helping a student with math work

Math Lab

The Math Lab is an on-campus resource where students can study and get help on math assignments.