Mathematics

Solve real-world problems with the language of science.

Mathematics is the language of science. The Bachelor of Arts degree programs in Applied Mathematics and Mathematics in the College of Letters & Science offer students the opportunity to learn the internal workings of this language, its central concepts and their interconnections. Students also learn to use mathematical concepts to formulate, analyze, and solve real-world problems. Their training in rigorous thought and creative problem-solving is valuable not just in science, but in all walks of life.

Mathematics at UC Berkeley is generally recognized as one of the most distinguished departments of mathematics in the world. The department has challenging honors-level undergraduate courses, hosts the Putnam Mathematical Competition, and sponsors undergraduate teams in the annual Mathematical Contest in Modeling.

Highlights

The rigorous classes helped me think deeply about problem-solving and made me a more analytical thinker.
Applied Mathematics major

Undergraduate Program

Curriculum 

The Applied Mathematics and Mathematics majors each require five lower division and eight upper division courses. Both majors require MATH 51 (formerly 1A), 52 (formerly 1B), 53, 54, and 55. Applied Mathematics requires MATH 104, 110, 113, 128A, and 185, as well as three upper division (or graduate) elective courses to form a coherent cluster in an applied areaMathematics requires MATH 104, 110, 113, and 185, as well as two upper division semi-electives and two upper division (or graduate) electives; a teaching concentration is optional. It should be emphasized that the character of mathematics changes sharply between lower and upper division courses. The role of computation diminishes and there is a greater emphasis on deductive reasoning. While some students find the theoretical approach more congenial, most find upper division courses more difficult.

Learn more at math.berkeley.edu/undergraduate

Academic Resources

  • MATH 1 Foundations of Lower Division Mathematics - brings students up-to-speed on fundamental concepts for MATH 10A/10B, 16A/16B, and 51/52.
  • MATH 74 Transition to Upper Division Mathematics - for students who are considering majoring in mathematics but wish additional training.
  • Student Learning Center - offers tutoring and other services for Mathematics courses.
  • Tutoring - The department maintains a list of undergraduates, graduate students, and alumni available for private tutoring in math at all levels.

Declaring the Major

Upon acceptance to UC Berkeley, you are admitted to the College of Letters & Science as an undeclared student. You are eligible to declare the major in Applied Mathematics or Mathematics once you have completed the following courses with a minimum grade of C in each course:

  • MATH 51 and 52 (or equivalent)
  • MATH 53, 54 or 56, and 55 (or equivalent); or completion of two of those three courses and currently enrolled in the third

If you have already completed upper division math courses, you must have a GPA of at least 2.0 from those courses at the time of declaration (note: upper division math coursework is not required to declare).

What Can I Do With My Major?

Studying mathematics opens doors to a wide range of professional opportunities and career paths. The mathematics undergraduate program provides excellent preparation for advanced degrees in math, physical sciences, economics, and industrial engineering, as well as graduate study in business, education, law, and medicine. The program also prepares students for postbaccalaureate positions in business, technology, industry, teaching, government, and finance.

UC Berkeley offers a number of career resources for students studying Applied Mathematics. The College of Letters & Science hosts MPS 101, a career development course, and offers advising for undergraduates pursuing medical or health professions programs, law school, or masters and PhD programs. Additionally, Berkeley Career Engagement provides career and graduate school advising, job and internship listings, and events such as career and graduate school fairs.

Spotlight

Robert, class of 2027

When did you first know that you liked math? It has always kind of come naturally to me. I find it really fun, and I know people are like, “Oh, my gosh, that’s crazy of you.”

What is appealing about it? In calculus, there are many ways to get to a certain answer. I like that there are different routes you can take. If you want to be difficult, you can take the difficult route, but there’s always an easier way, too.

When you think about applying math to your life in the future, what do you envision? Hopefully with my career, I can do math. But like I said before, seeing different routes to get to the same place, I think you can apply that to real world problems.

Four-Year Student Timeline

First Year

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Second Year

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Third Year

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Engage Outside the Classroom

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Fourth Year

Plan Your Studies

  • Enroll in MATH 104 and any remaining upper division requirements.
  • Complete electives for your major cluster (Applied Math) or semi-electives and electives (Math).
  • Join a thesis writing workshop at the Student Learning Center.
  • Challenge yourself with a graduate-level course.
  • Complete any remaining degree requirements and prepare for graduation.

Engage Outside the Classroom

Pursue Your Career Goals

Summer

Transfer Student Timeline

First Semester

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Second Semester

Plan Your Studies

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Third Semester

Plan Your Studies

Engage Outside the Classroom

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Fourth Semester

Plan Your Studies

Engage Outside the Classroom

Pursue Your Career Goals

Summer

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Undergraduate Advising

Have questions about Applied Mathematics and Mathematics, or choosing a major?

The Department of Mathematics offers undergraduate advising for students interested in mathematics major and minor programs. Undergraduate Major Advisors advise on major requirements, department policies and procedures, campus resources, academic and professional opportunities, research opportunities, developing study plans, and more. Faculty Advisors counsel on the academic content of the undergraduate programs, advice on how to self-study in a specific mathematical area, and how to get involved in research opportunities. Peer Advisors provide guidance on how to navigate the department and university, and more. For advising contacts, visit math.berkeley.edu.

The College of Letters & Science helps students with non-major-specific academic topics, including major exploration, general program planning, finding campus resources, and pre-professional graduate programs. L&S College Advisors are available for in-person and virtual meetings. Visit lsadvising.berkeley.edu or email asklns@berkeley.edu.

Related Programs

Looking for programs similar to Applied Mathematics and Mathematics? UC Berkeley also offers the following major, minor, and certificate programs: