Mathematics is a fascinating and beautiful subject which has been at the University since its founding over 200 years ago in 1801. Mathematics plays a crucial role in today's computer age. Through mathematical study, students learn how to analyze problems critically and systematically. Our students develop marketable skills for technical careers in the sciences, engineering and finance. Mathematics is also an excellent major or minor for pre-law and pre-med students.
Faculty and Research
Our internationally renowned faculty of 40 tenure-track and visiting professors carries out cutting edge research across a broad spectrum of pure and applied fields. Departmental research projects attract federal and industrial support.
Our Programs
We provide a stimulating and supportive environment for our students. You'll receive individual attention and all the opportunities necessary to succeed with your studies.
In our undergraduate program, over 250 undergraduates are declared mathematics majors, and numerous more have mathematics minors. Our degree programs lead to a B.S. or B.A. degree. The actuarial track is a popular choice.
In our graduate program, approximately 45 graduate students are enrolled in the Ph. D. program, which has both pure and applied tracks, or the Master's program leading to the M.S. or M.A. degrees. Most students have assistantships, and you'll have frequent opportunities to interact with faculty members outside the strictly academic setting. Faculty-led problem sessions help students prepare for their qualifying exams.
Beyond the Classroom
We strongly encourage both graduate and undergraduate students to participate in regular research seminars in fields including: Algebra and Logic, Analysis, Approximation Theory, Combinatorics, Commutative Algebra and Number Theory.
The Pi Mu Epsilon Honor Society/Gamecock Math Club is open to all USC students and holds functions throughout the year, some virtual and some in-person, including games and other informal activities to encourage student-student interaction, as well as special lectures, REU and grad school information sessions, a local Math Jeopardy competition (we often take a Math Jeopardy team to the MAA-SE Conference as well), and the annual Integration Bee. The club also encourages participation in the Putnam Exam and the Virginia Tech Regional Mathematics Contest.