Why Major in Mathematics?
Students in the mathematics major will recognize, represent, and use patterns to creatively address problems in a wide variety of settings. At Northwest, students will see and explore the beauty and utility of mathematics from a diverse faculty of highly qualified and nationally recognized mathematicians. Upon graduation, students will be able to compete successfully for jobs in business, industry, and government or continue in graduate studies.
Minor in Mathematics
Mathematics (calculus based)
A minor in mathematics teaches students the foundations of calculus and linear algebra. After taking the required courses, students can customize their minor from a list of approved electives. For a list of required courses, visit the academic catalog. This minor requires the completion of 21-22 credit hours.
Mathematics (non-calculus based)
A minor in mathematics teaches students the foundations of discrete math or graph theory, linear algebra or transition to proofs and college geometry and algebra. After taking the required courses, students can customize their minor from a list of approved electives. For a list of required courses, visit the academic catalog. This minor requires the completion of 22 credit hours.
Career Opportunities
80%
placement rate
80% of mathematics graduates find employment or continue their education within six months of graduation. Below is a list of job titles:
- Convergence editor
- Business consultant
- Customer service information technology manager
- Forecasting analyst
- Math teacher
- Operations research analyst
- Network planner/designer/architect
- Technical marketing engineer
- Underwriter
*Based on self-reported data.
Career Ready. Day One.
Northwest ensures students are career ready, day one through internships, field experiences and networking opportunities. Read Liz's story »
Beyond the Classroom
Northwest Student Chapter of Mathematical Association of American (MAA) promotes the interest and study of mathematics through problem-solving, meetings, lectures and social events.
Pi Mu Epsilon is a national honorary society that promotes mathematics and honors students who have excelled in the major and helps students who need assistance with their studies.
For a full list of student organizations within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics »
Study Abroad
Study Abroad is an opportunity for students to apply hands-on international experience to their academic development. Faculty members provide short-term study programs that prepare students before, during and after the program. Two types of study abroad programs are available: faculty-led and traditional study abroad.
The traditional program may be a semester, summer or year-long program and is taught by Northwest’s international partner institutions.
The Northwest Difference
Founded in 1905, Northwest is a traditional campus with more than 7,200 undergraduate and graduate students. Located in the middle of everywhere, Maryville is two hours from Omaha, Nebraska and Kansas City, Missouri and 2 ½ hours from Des Moines, Iowa.
The Bearcat Advantage provides out-of-state students the opportunity to earn in-state tuition rates that can save more than $7,500. With the average undergraduate financial aid award of $3,588 for in-state students and $9,804 for out-of-state students, Northwest offers a quality education at an affordable price.
At Northwest, the American Dream Grant covers 100% of the tuition and fees for Pell-eligible students.

Save more than $7,200 over four years through our textbooks and laptop program.
Laptop Program Information
Nearly $22 Million in scholarships and grants awarded annually.
Scholarship Information
Students organizations, internships and profession-based learning experiences ensure students are Career Ready, Day One.
Read student stories
Graduation Rate: 90th percentile of Northwest's national peer group.