Prof. Jerry Shurman’s Vector Calculus course helped me embrace mathematical learning and problem-solving as a collaborative activity.
What You’ll Study in the Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics
Develop clear reasoning skills and deepen your understanding of mathematical concepts with a bachelor’s degree from Reed College. We offer a major in pure mathematics and a concentration in statistics so you can choose courses based on your interests. Our dedicated faculty lead classroom conferences that encourage critical and independent thinking. Our foundational training prepares you for future endeavors in mathematics or in related applied fields, including computer science and biology.
Roadmap to the BA in Mathematics at Reed
Cultivate problem-solving skills through our rigorous curriculum. Learn to build sound mathematical arguments and solve problems using both calculation and structure. You can also engage in summer research projects and explore study abroad opportunities. These experiences culminate in the completion of your senior thesis.
Year One
Take Introductory Courses
Start your first year at Reed with Humanities 110. This yearlong class crosses traditional academic boundaries and nurtures your critical thinking abilities.
At the same time, dive into the world of mathematics by enrolling in fundamental courses such as Calculus and Introduction to Analysis. These lecture-conference classes introduce you to our engaging learning environment.
Attend the mathematics & statistics department’s Math Talks. Each seminar or colloquium explores new research and ideas from Reed students, faculty, alumni, and visiting scholars. It’s a great way to get to know your professors and peers and to learn about new applications of mathematics.
Year Two
Learn Here and Abroad
Take Linear Algebra or Vector Calculus and other advanced math courses to develop your math skills. Explore interesting classes across departments to fulfill group and division requirements.
You can also consider studying abroad during your sophomore year. Learn under the tutelage of eminent Hungarian scholar-teachers with the Budapest Semester in Mathematics or choose from other English-language options. You can also study mathematics in Germany, France, Ecuador, and Spain if you have foreign language proficiency.
Year Three
Gain Research Experience
Choose advanced mathematics courses that align with your interests and goals, such as Bayesian Statistics and Number Combinatorics. Spend time preparing for your junior qualifying examination by synthesizing the knowledge and skills acquired during your initial years of studying mathematics.
Engage in summer research projects alongside our faculty members. These hands-on experiences allow you to delve into cutting-edge mathematical research and further develop your analytical and problem-solving skills. To support these research pursuits, Reed College and the department of mathematics and statistics offer various college-sponsored awards to fund your studies over the summer.
Year Four
Delve into Research
After you pass your junior qualifying examination, you are ready to tackle the senior thesis. This defining Reed experience showcases all that you learned during your time as a mathematics major.
Choose to write a research-based or expository thesis, after exploring past thesis topics for inspiration. Whichever you choose, you will create a well-written document and an oral defense that demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research, apply mathematical principles, and contribute new insights to your chosen area of focus.
Why Study Mathematics at Reed College?
Coauthor Publications with Faculty
As a mathematics major, you have the opportunity to collaborate with your professors on research projects. In fact, our faculty actively encourages students to make meaningful research contributions, even as undergraduates. This cooperation can lead to conference presentations and papers published in esteemed journals. With this real-world experience, you can contribute to the advancement of mathematical knowledge and enhance your academic profile.
Discover Past Student Publications
Flexible Course Plan for Advanced Backgrounds
If you already have an advanced mathematics background, we can adjust your requirements so you don’t have to repeat classes. For example, a good score on the AP calculus exam generally exempts you from our calculus course. We encourage you to connect with us to discuss your background so we can determine the best path forward for you.
My Favorites Courses and Professors
Maxine Elena Calle ’20
Mathematics
Olivia McGough ’23
Mathematics
Prof. David Perkinson (F.L. Griffin Professor of Mathematics) was an incredibly influential figure during my time at Reed. He let me work with him on a research project the summer after my sophomore year that ended up being a formative experience for me. I learned a lot of math, but more importantly I learned how fun research can be and what I am capable of. He also taught me the importance of good chalk.
Vikram Chan-Herur ’17
Biology
My favorite course was Intro to Analysis with Prof. James Pommersheim. It was cool to see how to take tools we take for granted with math, like numbers, addition, and subtraction, and rigorously define and prove these.
Careers for BA in Mathematics Graduates
Reed’s mathematics department places graduates in highly selective PhD programs in mathematics and related fields. Our mathematics majors also pursue careers in the tech industry, business, and more.
- Data engineer, Nike
- Graduate research assistant, Michigan State University
- PhD candidate, Duke University
- PhD candidate, University of Pennsylvania
- Professor, Howard University
- Quality assurance automation engineer, Apple
- Software engineer, Posit PBC
- Software developer, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Achievements of Mathematics Alumni
Reed College’s mathematics program has produced exceptional alumni who have garnered remarkable awards and honors. Their accomplishments, which stand as a testament to the rigorous education and strong foundation provided by our program, include the following:
- Monroe Stephenson ’23, Fulbright Study/Research Grant
- Simon Couch ’21, National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellow
- Maxine Calle ’20, National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellow
- Riley Thornton ’16, Fulbright U.S. Student Program
- John Wilmes ’10, Goldwater Scholarship
Our Mathematics & Statistics Department Faculty
Our professors are experts who have won grants from organizations like the National Science Foundation. One was even recognized as a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society. But their primary passion is working with undergraduate students like you. Learn more about their expertise and fields of interest.
