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Program in Mathematical Sciences

Mathematics has long been recognized as a foundational discipline, integral to the advancement of knowledge across fields. At Simmons University, the Mathematical Sciences major cultivates rigorous analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and abstract problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s increasingly data-driven and interdisciplinary world.

Our curriculum prepares students to apply mathematical and statistical methodologies to complex questions across a broad spectrum of domains, including the natural and health sciences, the social sciences, economics and finance, as well as the arts and humanities. Alumnae of the program have pursued diverse careers in sectors such as the semiconductor, aerospace, and defense industries; cloud computing and cybersecurity; global communications; education; and financial services.

Biostatistics, a closely affiliated field, underpins quantitative research in public health and medicine. Graduates of Simmons who have studied mathematics and biostatistics have gone on to make meaningful contributions to epidemiological research, health data analysis, environmental health, clinical research, bioinformatics, and policy evaluation. Many have continued their academic journeys in graduate and doctoral programs across mathematics, statistics, data science, public health, and related fields.

Within a women-centered, interdisciplinary liberal arts environment, the Mathematical Sciences program at Simmons fosters both depth and breadth of knowledge, equipping students with the intellectual tools to engage critically with pressing societal challenges and to pursue advanced study and leadership in various professional contexts.

The Program in Mathematical Sciences offers a major in Mathematical Science as well as minors in Mathematics, Statistics, Biostatistics, and Mathematical Sciences.

First year students who had calculus and/or statistics in high school should see a member of the Program if they have any questions about their placement in mathematics and/or statistics courses.

Learning outcomes:

  1. Know the fundamental concepts/content/techniques from discrete and continuous mathematics.
  2. Know the fundamental concepts/content/techniques from descriptive and inferential statistics and probability.
  3. Apply the content/techniques from mathematics & statistics to to solve “real world problems.”
  4. Analyze problems to find the critical variables and use math and stats to build and interpret models.
  5. Communicate precisely, and clearly including written, oral, and visual presentations.
  6. Use computing tools effectively and appropriately.

Honors in Mathematical Sciences

In order to receive Honors in Mathematical Sciences, a student must:

  1. Maintain superior academic performance as indicated by a GPA of 3.5 or higher in major courses taken at Simmons.
  2. Conduct independent research through the successful completion of an NSF-REU or similar research program or by completion of a thesis or project supervised within the Department that receives a grade of A- or A.
  3. Communication of the work by presentation to the Department or in another approved forum.