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Mathematics Major

George Fox Mathematics majors study the discipline in a Christian environment.

Mathematics may be one of the world’s oldest sciences, but it continues to play a vital role today – whether that be in a career directly related to mathematics or in the business world, where the use of quantitative skills are valued.

As a mathematics major at George Fox University, you will learn the mathematical theories, computational techniques, algorithms and computer technology needed to solve engineering, economic, physics, scientific and business problems. And, in addition to your math classes, you will take a liberal-arts core of courses – all taught from a Christian worldview where faith is integrated with learning.

Many of our graduates become math teachers in high schools or colleges, while others pursue careers in the sciences. Regardless of what field you enter, you will be equipped to solve real-world problems in our technology-driven society.

Potential teachers will be exposed to both the content within the field and the pedagogical tools necessary to become excellent teachers of mathematics. Graduates moving into either math-related areas or general business settings will be able to use the quantitative tools of mathematics as well as the deductive thought processes to solve the problems they will face.

Request more information about the mathematics major at George Fox University or schedule a visit to begin your education at Oregon's Christian university, ranked as one of the top Christian colleges in the nation by Forbes.

Jobs and Graduate School

Mathematics majors at George Fox study at one of the West Coast's top Christian colleges

The job outlook is excellent for mathematics graduates. Many go on to graduate school, and our acceptance rate is high. Career opportunities in the actuarial sciences are projected to grow 22 percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics – much faster than the average for other occupations. Likewise, the demand for mathematicians and statisticians is projected to grow a whopping 33 percent in the same time period. We also have graduates who work in the field who are helping our students connect with internship and career opportunities.

  • Data Analyst, Chrome Data Solutions
  • Mathematician, NSA
  • Mathematician/Scientist, National Security Technologies LLC
  • CSR Billing & Licensing Specialist, HawkSoft
  • Statistical Consultant, Federal Government
  • Visiting Professor, Willamette University
  • Assistant Professor, Seattle Pacific University
  • Teacher, Grants Pass High School
  • Teacher, Woodburn High School
  • Product Strategy Analyst, Avalara
  • Actuary, Liberty Mutual Insurance
  • Texas Tech
  • University of Montana
  • Virginia Tech
  • University of Hawaii
  • North Carolina
  • Virginia Commonwealth
  • Oregon State University
Expand All

Major Requirements

Complete the following:

A foundational course for the study of computer science and information systems. The course covers an overview of programming methodology and gives the student an ability to write computer programs using standard style and structure. Programming projects are completed in one or more high-level languages. Prerequisite: high school algebra or equivalent. Additional course fee required.
The class is a study of limits limits of functions, applications of derivatives, and an introduction to integration. Prerequisite: MATH 190 Precalculus Mathematics or equivalent.
A study of differential and integral calculus for functions of one variable. Additional topics include polar coordinates, infinite series, and parametric equations. Prerequisite: MATH 201 Calculus I.
This course is intended to facilitate a smooth transition from lower-level, computation-oriented math courses to upper-level, more theoretical courses. Topics include symbolic logic, methods of proof, and set theory. Prerequisite: MATH 201 Calculus I.
This course is an extension of MATH 201 and 202 Calculus I and II to functions of more than one variable. Topics include vectors, vector-valued functions, partial derivatives, and multiple integration. Prerequisite: MATH 202 Calculus II.
A seminar for junior and senior math majors to explore current topics selected by the instructor. Emphasis will be placed on significant student involvement in the classroom. Prerequisite: junior or senior status.

Choose 3 of the following sequences

Sequence 1

A study of the theory, methods of solution, and applications of ordinary differential equations and the techniques of linear algebra necessary to accomplish that study. Prerequisite: MATH 202 Calculus II.
A study of numerical solutions of mathematical problems, including nonlinear equations, systems of linear equations, polynomial approximations, root finding, integration, and differential equations. Computer programs are written to solve these problems. (Identical to CSIS 300.) Prerequisites: MATH 311 Differential Equations with Linear Algebra and either CSIS 201 Introduction to Computer Science I or ENGR 152 Engineering Principles II.

Sequence 2

A study of sample spaces, combinatorial methods, discrete and continuous distributions, moment-generating functions, and the central limit theorem. Prerequisites: MATH 290 Introduction to Proofs and MATH 301 Calculus III.
A study of statistical methods - including estimators, confidence intervals, tests of statistical hypotheses, and correlation analyses - from a theoretical point of view, including applications. Prerequisite: MATH 331 Probability.

Sequence 3

A study of matrices and their properties and application, linear transformations, and vector spaces. Prerequisites: MATH 310 Differential Equations with Linear Algebra.
A study of groups, rings, integral domains, fields,polynomial rings, and algebraic number systems. Prerequisites: MATH 411 Advanced Linear Algebra.

Sequence 4

An introduction to the fundamental concepts in real analysis including limits, continuity, sequences, series, differentiation, and integration. Prerequisites: MATH 290 Introduction to Proofs and MATH 301 Calculus III.
Class serves as a continued study of the fundamental concepts in real analysis including limits, continuity, sequences, series, differentiation, and integration. Prerequisite: MATH 421 Real Analysis I.
Any mathematics (MATH) coursework at 300-level or above, excluding MATH 330 Engineering Statistics.

Student Experiences

Marylesa (Wilde) Howard

“I entered George Fox with the intent to study mathematics, but I came away with so much more than just an education, thanks to the faculty. My professors spent their time investing in me and, as a result, I learned how to be an attentive student, inquisitive researcher and effective communicator. I now have a career applying mathematics to real-world problems, and my success today started with my time studying at George Fox.”

- Marylesa (Wilde) Howard
Mathematician/Scientist, National Security Technologies LLC

Points of Distinction

  • Math Lab – a great place for students to get tutoring help, work on projects or just enjoy hanging out with fellow math majors
  • Professors who, while active as mathematicians, care deeply about teaching
  • Opportunities to conduct research under the guidance of a faculty member

Why George Fox?

Christ-centered community

Our faith influences everything we do here, from the way our professors teach to the way we relate to one another and serve in the community.

Global opportunities

More than half of George Fox undergraduate students study abroad, ranking George Fox among the nation's leaders in study abroad participation (U.S. News & World Report).

Small classes

Our 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio means you'll get to know your professors on a personal level.

National recognition

George Fox University is a Christian university classified by U.S. News & World Report as a first-tier national university, and Forbes ranks George Fox among the highest Christian colleges in the country.

Mathematics Faculty

Required Courses

Four-Year Course Plan

Related Majors

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