Mathematics Major, Bachelor of Arts

Program Overview

With a focus on future-proof skills and experiential learning opportunities, it prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including data science, finance, computer science, and education. Led by dedicated faculty and supported by smaller class sizes, students benefit from personalized attention and an active learning environment.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts, Mathematics Major at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is a four-year program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in mathematics and its applications. The program aims to develop students' analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, preparing them for a wide range of careers in various fields. The program emphasizes the practical applications of mathematics in areas such as:

• Physical and life sciences
• Finance and economics
• Computing and information theory
• Social sciences
• Fine arts
Students will gain an understanding of mathematics as the science of patterns, exploring its evolution from simple arithmetic to a complex language.

• Employer Demand: Employers are seeking individuals with strong mathematical, analytical, and risk management skills.
• Future-Proof Skills: The program cultivates skills highly valued by employers, including decision-making, critical thinking, problem-solving, self-learning, teamwork, leadership, global competency, ethics, communication, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world settings.
• Experiential Learning: Students have opportunities to gain practical experience through undergraduate research, co-op work placements, practicums, field schools, service learning, and study abroad.
• Expansive Choice: The program offers a diverse range of courses, including calculus, computer programming, algebra, discrete mathematics, analysis, and economics.
• Collaborative Faculty: The program boasts enthusiastic and dedicated faculty who foster a productive learning environment in small class settings.

Teaching:

• Faculty: The program features dedicated and enthusiastic faculty who prioritize student learning and create a supportive environment.
• Small Class Sizes: Students benefit from smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention and interaction with professors.
• Active Listening: The program emphasizes active listening in class, encouraging student engagement and participation.

Careers:

• Career Paths: A Mathematics Major opens doors to a wide range of career fields, including:
• Statistics: Data science, research, biostatistics
• Computer Information Systems: Software development, cybersecurity, video game programming
• Actuarial Science: Insurance, statistics, higher education
• Computer Science: Software engineering, web development, database administration
• Economics: Analyst, consultant, planner, researcher
• Mathematics Education: K-12 teaching, higher education (after obtaining a master's degree)
• Popular Career Options:
• Cryptographer
• Actuary
• Mathematician
• Economist
• Statistician
• Financial planner
• Operations research analyst
• Investment analyst
• Systems engineer
• Inventory control specialist
• Accountant
• Insurance underwriter
• Programmer analyst
• Cost estimator
• Quantitative financial analyst
• Purchasing agent
• Market researcher
• Budget analyst
• High school math teacher
• Fraud investigator
• Energy analyst
• Data analyst
• Software tester
• Algorithms engineer
• Mathematical modeler
• Geodesist
• Data scientist
• Meteorologist
• Laddering Options:
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master in Environmental Economics and Management (MEEM)
• Master Science in Environmental Economics and Management (MScEEM)
• Master of Science in Data Science
• Master of Education

Other:

• Student Testimonials: The context includes positive testimonials from former students highlighting their experiences and the benefits of the program.
• Faculty Highlights: The context features profiles of two faculty members, Dr. Jabed Tomal and Dr. Mateen Shaikh, showcasing their research interests and expertise in areas like big data, machine learning, and computational statistics.