What Majors Require Math?

Understanding what classes your child needs in high school to prepare them for their desired field can help them optimize their time there. Learn about the math requirements for the following university majors.

Math Majors

When studying math, students' curriculum will center around creating a comprehensive and detailed understanding of the subject and the various types of math. They will learn multiple mathematical theories and how they apply them in the real world. Students may learn several levels of calculus, multi-variable math, linear equations, or differential equations as their more advanced math courses. 

Math departments also often house computer science, which applies math to technology to drive innovative results. Programming is based on principles from algebra, allowing computer scientists to insert variables into equations to produce specific results. 

If your child wants to study math or computer science, they should strive to complete a well-rounded mathematical education in middle and high school that prepares them for their future. Consider seeking a strong curriculum in algebra and calculus. 

Engineering Majors 

Engineering is a diverse field that can appeal to many interests. Students can use their skills and strengths to find their passions and careers in engineering. Regardless of where their engineering studies take your child, they will need an advanced understanding of math for their degree. 

Engineers rely on strong mathematical skills to provide accurate measurements for their designs and products. In a field that prioritizes precision and accuracy, math can provide the exact data they need to execute projects. Engineering typically requires higher levels of math, like calculus. High schoolers planning to earn an engineering degree can prepare by working algebra, geometry, pre-calculus or calculus into their course schedules. 

Psychology  

Surprisingly, psychology majors do need math. While psychology is the study of the mind, the field's applications often require strong mathematical skills, especially statistical analysis. Psychologists and researchers use statistics and probability to develop, analyze and understand studies and research results. Even if students plan on using their psychology degrees to practice as a therapist, they can use their understanding of statistics to understand published research by others in the field. 

Taking statistics or an equivalent in high school can prepare students for major requirements and working in this field. 

Science Majors 

Biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science use math as the basis for many scientific principles and processes. Like many other fields, math helps add more precision to experiments and theories, helping scientists across disciplines understand the world around us. 

Students interested in pursuing a degree in science can develop their math skills through algebra, pre-calculus and calculus. These subjects can prepare them for the complicated equations and understanding methods in important industry studies. A statistics class can also help students navigate and comprehend research and studies. 

Business Majors 

Business majors rely on numbers and calculations to understand profits, business projections, demand and supply and other essential factors in running and managing successful enterprises. Business schools offer many majors to cover various skills, interests and needs, from finance and accounting to business administration and management. Math follows each of these majors and careers, helping drive operations and decisions. 

Students interested in a business degree can expect requirements in calculus and statistics, especially for those focusing on the financial aspects of business school. 

Pre-Health Majors 

Many students pursue pre-med degrees in hopes of becoming doctors and helping individuals in need. While these rigorous programs have many course requirements to prepare their students adequately for medical school and their careers, math classes are essential requirements they will need to thrive in the medical and health fields. 

Typically, college-level pre-med programs require students to complete calculus, statistics and applied mathematics. These courses help students make essential calculations needed to operate in medical settings. Statistics can help students understand diagnostic and patient survival rates to provide better care, and comprehensive essential studies conducted and published by professionals. 

Sociology  

Sociology majors study society and its institutions through various lenses. Students pursuing these degrees can become counselors, social workers, paralegals and human resources agents. This field has a similar perception as psychology, where many believe math plays a minimal role in the course material. Like psychology, however, many sociology programs require students to take statistics, so they can understand and conduct studies. 

Graphic Design 

When individuals think of graphic design, they might highlight the importance of strong computer skills or an artistic side. While these factors can help students succeed in graphic design programs and fields, students also need strong mathematical skills. Many aspects of art and design require a comprehensive understanding of lines, shapes and angles to create designs that appeal to the human mind. 

Geometry, trigonometry and algebra can provide the foundation students need to understand the various visual elements they will navigate and manipulate when working on assignments and in their careers. These subjects also prepare students for working in various computer and editing software programs. 

Education Majors 

Teachers are the foundation of the education system, helping prepare the next generation of students. Students can choose to teach several subjects at the elementary school level or select one to focus on for middle and high school applications. Students who want to teach math will need a comprehensive understanding of the subject. They need to know both basic and advanced skills so they can successfully impart knowledge to their students. 

Those who want to teach subjects other than math often still have to take math classes as part of their program's requirements for bachelor's degrees. Depending on the academic track and desired outcome, students may have to take statistics and calculus or higher-level courses. They will also learn strategies to explain topics, theories and concepts to their future students. 

Architecture 

Architects design the buildings that engineers help execute. They combine artistic endeavors with math to create functional and iconic buildings that surround our everyday lives. Architects develop all types of buildings, from skyscrapers to individual homes to functional buildings, like grocery stores, banks and schools. 

Like graphic design, architects rely on their learning in geometry, algebra and calculus to help them create blueprints full of proper lines, angles and shapes.

Prepare Your Child for College With the Russian School of Mathematics 

When you want your child to excel in their future career, the proper math preparation can equip them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in their selected major and field. The Russian School of Mathematics (RSM) provides classes from kindergarten through high school with different levels for each grade, so your child can receive the support they need for their existing math skills. 

Learn More About Our Programs

Using Russian techniques and academic styles, our teachers help students during the school year and through the summer develop math skills in various subjects, including calculus.

Schedule an evaluation with us or enroll with RSM today to start preparing your student for college.