Pure Mathematics Concentration

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 32.6 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 32.6 k / Year(s) Deadline: Nov 30, 2025
StudyQA ranking:11417 Duration:4 years

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The Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics with a Concentration offers students a rigorous and comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of mathematics. This program is designed for students who have a strong interest in theoretical mathematics and who aspire to pursue careers in research, academia, or fields that require advanced mathematical skills. The curriculum emphasizes core areas such as algebra, calculus, differential equations, real and complex analysis, and topology, providing students with a solid foundation in mathematical reasoning and problem-solving techniques. Throughout the program, students engage in both theoretical exploration and practical applications, developing critical thinking skills necessary for analyzing complex mathematical concepts. In addition to the standard mathematics courses, students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and seminars that enhance their understanding and prepare them for graduate studies or professional careers. The program also emphasizes the importance of mathematical proof, logical structure, and abstract thinking, encouraging students to develop a deep understanding of mathematical language and symbol systems. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary connections, applying mathematical theories to real-world problems in science, engineering, and technology. Dedicated faculty members with expertise in various mathematical disciplines mentor students and facilitate an engaging academic environment. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees in mathematics or related fields or to enter technical roles requiring high-level quantitative and analytical skills. The Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics with a Concentration aims to cultivate a passion for mathematics, develop rigorous analytical skills, and prepare students for successful careers in academia, industry, or further research.

120 units

Summary of Units:

Lower Division Major Requirements 34
Upper Division Major Requirements 20
Upper Division Major Electives Requirement 9
Concentration Requirements 9
Additional General Education and other Graduation Requirements 48
Total Units 120

Lower Division Requirements - 34-35 units

MATH 150 - Calculus I Units: 4

MATH 151 - Calculus II Units: 4

MATH 230 - Logic and Mathematical Reasoning (Cross-listed as PHIL 230) Units: 3

MATH 240 - Linear Algebra Units: 3

MATH 250 - Calculus III Units: 3

PHYS 200 - General Physics I Units: 4

Select one of the following:

PHYS 201 - General Physics II Units: 4 and

one additional science course Units: 3-4

or

One two-semester science sequence Units: 7-8

Select one of the following:

COMP 105 - Computer Programming Introduction Units: 3

COMP 150 - Object-Oriented Programming Units: 4

Select an additional Computer Science course:

COMP 150 - Object-Oriented Programming Units: 4

or above or

COMP 102 - Web Development Units: 3

Upper Division Requirements - 20 units

MATH 300 - Discrete Mathematics Units: 3

MATH 331 - History of Mathematics Units: 3

MATH 350 - Differential Equations and Dynamical Systems Units: 3

MATH 351 - Real Analysis Units: 3

MATH 352 - Probability and Statistics Units: 3

MATH 451 - Complex Analysis Units: 3

MATH 499 - Senior Colloquium Units: 1

(Twice)

Electives in Major - 9-13 units

Note:

Courses used for the concentrations cannot be counted as elective.

Students planning on teaching math have to choose MATH 492 for field experience requirement. Other courses recommended for teaching careers are marked with T.

MATH 318 - Mathematics for Secondary School Teachers Units: 3 T

MATH 330 - Mathematics and Fine Arts Units: 3 T

MATH 345 - Digital Image Processing (Cross-listed as COMP 345, PHYS 345) Units: 3

MATH 354 - Analysis of Algorithms Units: 3

MATH 393 - Abstract Algebra I Units: 3 T

MATH 429 - Operations Research Units: 3

MATH 430 - Research Design and Data Analysis Units: 3

MATH 437 - Mathematics for Games, Simulations, and Robotics Units: 3

MATH 438 - Philosophy of Mathematics (Cross-listed as PHIL 438) Units: 3

MATH 445 - Image Analysis and Pattern Recognition (Cross-listed as PHYS 445, COMP 445)Units: 3

MATH 448 - Scientific Computing Units: 3

MATH 450 - Partial Differential Equations and Mathematical Physics Units: 3

MATH 452 - Computational Bioinformatics (Cross-listed as COMP 452) Units: 4

MATH 480 - Differential and Riemannian Geometry Units: 3

MATH 482 - Number Theory and Cryptography Units: 3 T

MATH 484 - Algebraic Geometry and Coding Theory Units: 3

MATH 490 - Topics in Modern Mathematics Units: 3

MATH 492 - Internship Units: 1-3 T

(Required for teachers)

MATH 494 - Independent Research Units: 1-3

MATH 497 - Directed Studies Units: 3

MATH 499 - Senior Colloquium Units: 1

Concentration - 6-10 units

By the sophomore year, in order to plan their electives, students should decide on one of the concentrations and take all courses listed in that section.

Choice of other concentrations or individualized concentrations is possible upon approval of the mathematics advisor.

Pure Mathematics - 9 units

MATH 393 - Abstract Algebra I Units: 3

MATH 438 - Philosophy of Mathematics (Cross-listed as PHIL 438) Units: 3

Upper Division Math Research or Topics Courses Units:  3

Interdisciplinary GE Course outside major - 3 units

Select one interdisciplinary GE Course 3 units

Recommended:

COMP 447 - Societal Issues in Computing Units: 3

COMP 449 - Human-Computer Interaction (Cross-listed as PSY 449) Units: 3

PHYS 434 - Introduction to Biomedical Imaging (Cross-listed as BIOL 434, HLTH 434) Units:4

To graduate, students must complete 120 units minimum (40 units must be upper division) including all General Education (GE) and Graduation Requirements .  The following areas must be included:

Additional Lower Division A-E (GE) Requirements not met within the major

Nine units of Upper Division Upper Division Interdisciplinary GE (UDIGE), courses are numbered 330-349 and 430-449. Six units may be within the major, 3 units must be outside the major (C or better grade)

Multicultural Requirement (C or better grade)

Language Requirement (C or better grade)

American Institutions Requirement

Free electives as needed to meet minimum units for graduation


Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing studies for the Pure Mathematics Concentration program at California State University are primarily designed to support students through a variety of financial aid options, scholarships, and affordable tuition rates. California State University offers a range of financial assistance opportunities to help students manage the costs associated with their higher education pursuits. Federal and state financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are available, enabling eligible students to receive grants, loans, or work-study funds to supplement their educational expenses. Scholarships specifically aimed at mathematics students are also offered, including university-based scholarships and outside scholarship opportunities from private organizations and foundations. These scholarships may be awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or special criteria such as research interests or community involvement.

In addition to grants and scholarships, the university provides payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the semester, making the financial burden more manageable. The costs associated with the Pure Mathematics Concentration include tuition and fees, which vary depending on residency status; in-state students benefit from lower tuition rates compared to out-of-state students. For financial planning, students are encouraged to explore federal student aid options through the university’s financial aid office, which offers counseling and guidance on the application process. Moreover, many students engage in part-time employment opportunities on campus or nearby areas, which can provide additional financial support while gaining valuable work experience.

California State University also emphasizes increasing access to education through targeted programs that assist underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students, providing additional grants and support services. International students interested in the Pure Mathematics Concentration may have different funding requirements and options, often relying on private sources, scholarships, or personal funding. Overall, the program’s financing strategies aim to reduce financial barriers, promote equity in higher education, and enable students to focus on their academic goals without undue economic stress. This multi-faceted financial support framework is designed to ensure that qualified students can undertake the program regardless of their financial background and graduate with minimal debt, ready to pursue further academic or professional opportunities in the field of mathematics.

Pure Mathematics is a fundamental field of study within the Department of Mathematics at California State University. The program focuses on developing a deep understanding of abstract mathematical concepts, theories, and structures. Students pursuing a concentration in Pure Mathematics gain proficiency in areas such as algebra, analysis, topology, and number theory. The curriculum is designed to enhance analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning, preparing graduates for careers in research, academia, or industries that require strong quantitative skills. The program typically includes coursework in advanced calculus, linear algebra, mathematical logic, and differential equations, among others, offering both theoretical foundations and practical applications.

Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, research projects, and collaborations with faculty members, which provide opportunities for deeper engagement and exploration of specialized topics within pure mathematics. The program also prepares students for graduate study in mathematics or related fields by emphasizing rigorous proof techniques and abstract reasoning. Supporting resources such as computer labs, mathematical software, and access to research journals are available to enhance learning experiences.

Faculty members in the department are active researchers who often involve students in their projects, fostering an environment of scholarly inquiry. Graduates of this program are equipped with highly transferrable skills applicable to many sectors, including technology, finance, data analysis, and education. They are also well-positioned to pursue advanced degrees, contributing to the academic and professional mathematical community. Overall, the Pure Mathematics concentration at California State University offers a comprehensive and challenging education that prepares students for diverse career paths and lifelong learning in the mathematical sciences.

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