Mathematics

For Students

Information

Getting Help

The Center for Academic Excellence provides support services for students in order to maximize each student's potential for academic excellence. You can use the services of either one of the CAE peer advisers or consult Greg Tollisen, the math specialist. 

The Academic Mastery Program organizes challenging workshops for students enrolled in general chemistry and basic calculus, and aims to foster the development of an intellectual community dedicated to mathematical and scientific excellence. However, since the AMP workshops build on ideas being presented in the courses, you will be expected to be up-to-date every week, not just at exams. 

Major in Mathematics

Occidental's mathematics program aims to serve the diverse needs of students in the physical sciences, social sciences, and liberal arts as well as mathematics. Study and problem-solving in mathematics at all levels provide a paradigm of critical thinking: identifying and questioning premises, inferring patterns from evidence, deducing conclusions from hypotheses, and expressing ideas clearly. Other disciplines rely on mathematics to provide technical tools for precise reasoning and communication.

Upon graduation, some mathematics majors go on to graduate or professional school while others begin careers in teaching, business, industry, or government. The mathematics major can be structured to provide a solid foundation in the mathematical sciences--pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and operations research--and fields close to mathematics--computer science, actuarial science, and engineering. A major or minor in mathematics can also provide an excellent technical and theoretical complement to a major or minor in other fields.

Additional information is provided for the mathematics major:

Course Tracking
Major Declaration Form

If you want to continue your education in mathematics, please consult the list of graduate schools (offering M.S. and Ph.D. programs) and our recommendations.

Working for the Math Department

Gateway Workshop Leader
AMP Facilitator
Math Grader
Office Assistant

If you have any interest in any of these positions, please contact the Mathematics Department at math@oxy.edu or call (323) 259-2822.

  • Phone: (323) 259-2822
  • Email: math@oxy.edu
  • Location: Fowler, 3rd Fl