Undergraduate Academics
Find Your Path in Math and Quantitative Analysis
Turn numbers into solutions. Build analytical skills that drive breakthroughs in data science, finance, technology, and beyond.
Math and Quantitative Analysis
Numbers tell powerful stories—and with the right skills, you can use them to solve complex problems and make data-driven decisions. If you love working with numbers, spotting patterns, and finding practical solutions, this field opens the door to exciting possibilities, with graduates going on to work at NASA, the National Security Agency, the Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. military branches.
Collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving define the student experience at Penn State. In the classroom and beyond, you'll work with faculty on research, apply your learning through internships, and connect with industry leaders. Whether you're coding algorithms, modeling data, or applying statistics to business strategies, you'll develop the expertise to turn analytical thinking into impact.
Solve problems: Use math and data to make informed decisions in fields like finance, technology, and cybersecurity.
Develop critical skills: Build expertise in quantitative analysis, statistical modeling, coding, and data interpretation.
Explore a variety of careers: A math degree can lead to jobs in data science, actuarial science, risk management, and more.
Gain practical experience: Intern with top companies, participate in research projects, and apply your skills to real-world challenges.
Work with cutting-edge technology: Analyze big data, create algorithms, and improve systems with computational tools.
Customize your education: Combine math with business, technology, or science to match your interests and career goals.
Careers for Math Majors
Actuary
Use math and statistics to assess risks, like accidents or natural disasters, to help businesses plan for the future. Certification is common but not required for entry-level jobs.
$120,000 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Computer and Information Research Scientist
Conduct advanced research in computing, including cryptography, AI, and machine learning engineering, to develop new technologies and solve complex problems. A master’s degree is often required.
$145,080 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data Analyst
Analyze data to uncover trends and insights, helping businesses and organizations solve problems. Data analysts and data scientists are needed in every industry to inform decision-making.
$108,020 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Financial Analyst
Study trends, investments, and budgets to help businesses make smart financial decisions. A license is often needed to sell financial products but is usually earned on the job.
$99,890 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Financial Risk Specialist
Evaluate financial risks to help businesses avoid losses and stay prepared for challenges. Develop strategies to protect companies and reduce potential setbacks.
$118,950 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Mathematician
Use advanced math to solve real-world problems in business, science, and technology. An advanced degree is typically required.
$116,440 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Operations Research Analyst
Use data and analytical methods to help organizations solve problems and make decisions. Work as a business intelligence analyst or supply chain analyst to improve efficiency and outcomes.
$83,640 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Statistician
Analyze data to identify trends and support decision-making in business, healthcare, and government. An advanced degree is typically required.
$104,110 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Discover Your Path
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Social Good
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Learn More About Our Programs and Resources
Studying math and data unlocks powerful skills that employers value across technology, finance, science, and business. You'll learn how to think critically, solve real-world problems, and work with data to make informed decisions—abilities that can lead to high-impact careers in a wide range of industries.
Problem-solving and critical thinking: Tackle complex challenges with logic and creativity.
Data analysis and statistical modeling: Identify patterns, predict trends, and turn numbers into insights.
Coding and computational skills: Use programming languages like Python and R to work with data and automate solutions.
Risk assessment and decision-making: Apply probability and analytics to fields like finance, cybersecurity, and insurance.
Mathematical applications in science and business: See how math drives innovation in areas like meteorology, supply chain management, and technology.
Clear and logical communication: Explain data and complex concepts in ways that influence decisions and drive impact.
Numbers drive decision-making, and mastering quantitative analysis and math prepares you to lead with confidence.
You'll develop skills in problem-solving, strategic thinking, and data-driven decision-making, helping you analyze complex challenges and find the best solutions. Whether collaborating with teams, presenting insights, or managing large-scale projects, you'll be ready to take initiative and make an impact.
Penn State’s undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by ABET, the global standard for engineering education. This accreditation ensures our programs provide the technical expertise, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills needed for success in cutting-edge engineering fields.
Employers recognize ABET-accredited degrees as a mark of quality and industry readiness, giving you a competitive edge in the job market and streamlining the path to professional licensure and certifications, opening doors to advanced career opportunities.
A math degree gives you the skills to succeed in high-demand careers—and it can also be a strong foundation for advanced study. If you’re interested in diving deeper, you’ll find opportunities to specialize through graduate programs in data science, cybersecurity, actuarial science, finance, and more.
Build on your undergraduate experience to expand your expertise and open even more doors in your career.
Learn more about graduate quantitative analysis and math programs.
Penn State offers comprehensive career services to help students confidently navigate their career. Our dedicated advisers provide personalized career counseling, resume workshops, interview prep, mock interviews, and job placement assistance.
With over 50,000 career preparedness programs annually and career fairs featuring top employers, we ensure you're well-equipped to succeed. There's a reason recruiters turn to Penn State graduates again and again.
You’ll also have access to networking opportunities with alumni, recruiters, and industry professionals to jumpstart your career.
At Penn State, we provide unmatched networking opportunities through our world’s largest dues-paying alumni network, connecting students to a lifelong community of professionals.
With access to alumni and industry leaders, you’ll gain valuable insights, career advice, and potential job opportunities. Our alumni network and partnerships with top employers ensure that you're building relationships that will support your career for years to come.
Participate in internships and co-op programs to gain valuable real-world experience by connecting you with leading companies across industries.
These opportunities allow you to apply classroom learning to professional settings, build industry-specific skills, and network with potential employers.
Internships are short-term, hands-on positions, while co-ops involve alternating work and study periods for a more in-depth experience. Both are designed to give you a competitive edge, preparing you for a successful career after graduation.
Penn State offers a range of opportunities for students eager to launch their own businesses or drive innovation within existing industries. Through Invent Penn State, you'll have access to programs that support entrepreneurial education both in and outside the classroom.
Our signature programs provide students with the knowledge, resources, and mentorship needed to bring bold ideas to life. Whether you want to start your own venture or lead innovation within a company, Penn State provides the support to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
Broaden your perspective with over 300 study abroad programs in more than 50 countries, available year-round for all majors.
Whether through embedded programs that let you take classes while traveling during breaks or global service opportunities like alternative spring break, these experiences will deepen your understanding of international business and culture. Gain the global insights and connections that today’s leaders need to succeed.
At Penn State, undergraduates can dive into research projects that explore new ideas and trends. This experience will set you apart and give you a deeper understanding of your field.
We are dedicated to shaping the future by fostering a community where all students are encouraged to share their unique perspectives. We believe that progress happens when we embrace and amplify ideas, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
Our commitment goes beyond the classroom, weaving together integrity, leadership, and social responsibility. With a focus on creating positive change, Penn State prepares students to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact. From cutting-edge initiatives to global learning opportunities, we empower students to drive social good.
Penn State’s Integrated Undergraduate-Graduate (IUG) degree programs allow students to pursue both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree as a continuous course of study. This streamlined path accelerates the completion of the master's degree and offers early exposure to graduate-level coursework. IUG students also benefit from networking opportunities with graduate students and faculty who share similar academic and career interests.
Take your education further with honors programs, where high-achieving students gain access to small, discussion-based classes, faculty mentorship, and unique academic experiences.
With honors opportunities available across our campuses and Schreyer Honors College, you’ll engage in research, leadership development, and hands-on learning that sets you apart. Personalized advising, study abroad options, and career resources help you make the most of your college journey.
We offer more than sixty articulation agreements with colleges and universities around the world to help transfer students continue their education at Penn State. With hundreds of academic majors and campuses across Pennsylvania, you'll have plenty of options to find the right path for your future.