With the support of faculty and opportunities to apply your knowledge, you’ll learn how to conceptualize problems and develop the analytical skills to construct solutions. You'll also sharpen your ability to think logically, work with abstract concepts, and communicate effectively.
Degree Options
The deparment of Mathematics offers two degree paths, a Mathematics bachelors and a Data Science bachelors.
Mathematics, B.A.
The curriculum is rigorous yet flexible to help you develop basic analytical skills and sharpen your ability to think logically, work with abstract ideas, and recognize patterns and structures. Whether through coursework or extracurricular activities, students learn to apply abstract mathematical concepts to real-life situations while building practical skills that will prepare them for graduate school and a variety of careers.
Data Science, B.S.
Data scientists gather and investigate data and extract meaningful insights and hidden trends. They also use machine learning algorithms to build predictive models which have a wide range of applications, from TikTok recommendations to predicting the next COVID variant to surge. At Cal Poly Humboldt, we are particularly passionate about “Data for Good” and believe Data Science can help solve many challenges addressing our society from housing inequity to climate change.
Featured Alumni Profile
Amanda Hemingway, 2018
Supply Chain Analyst IV; Demand Planning, Kaiser Permanente
I forecast the demand for PPE and other supply needs across all regions of Kaiser Permanente services. This includes various data analyses to capture trends as well as communicating with vendors about the supply level requirements.
Career Options
Mathematics, B.A.
Mathematics students hone their ability to think critically, becoming thoughtful about what they state and what they prove. These skills are crucial, especially in a world of endless information and big data. Knowing how to analyze and solve problems prepares for a variety of fields, from accounting to zoology in public and private sectors.
Here are a few examples of what you can do with a Mathematics degree (some fields may require additional education):
- Mathematician
- Data analyst
- Mathematics instructor or teacher
- Business analyst
- Financial analyst
Data Science, BS.
Data science methodologies build skills and knowledge that are being applied to nearly every field in natural and social sciences and the humanities. The Data Science program provides a pathway for students to prepare for a growing number of data-rich professions.
Here are a few examples of what you can do with a Data Science degree (some fields may require additional education):
- Data Analyst
- Data Manager
- Data Analytics Project Manager
- Risk Analytics
- Data Researcher
- Data Scientist
‘Humboldt math graduates also compete well for entrance to graduate schools and have pursued advanced degrees at more than 43 different universities. Humboldt is ranked first in the nation by the National Science Foundation among non-Ph.D. granting institutions for sending students on to doctoral programs and 5th among all universities in the nation.
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