What subjects/courses should I take if I want a degree in Mathematics?

Question

I'm interested in doing a degree in Mathematics when I'm in university. But, I'm not sure what other subjects/courses I should take to do it.

Answer 1

Not sure if this is what you are asking, but I will answer in terms of courses you might take in high school, and at the university.

In terms of courses to take while you are in high school:

You may already know this, but your math preparation should include a full year of algebra, and semester of geometry, and a semester of trigonometry, at the minimum. Ideally, you should study one to two semesters of AP calculus and a semester of statistics. If you get all of that math behind you and still have time to take more, then I would take multivariable calculus, if it is offered where you are.

In addition, you should study physics, because in many instances mathematics is illustrated by examples from physics. The regular course and the advanced placement course would be good.

A semester of computer science would be of help as well. Note that learning how to use a computer is a little different from the study of computer science. It always is key to learn how to use a computer, but it is the knowledge of computer science that will help make your university application stronger.

Finally, I would get involved in some math related activities outside of school, such as volunteer tutoring, or a math competition or olympiad, for high school students.


Courses to take along with math at the university:

This very much depends on how your interests develop once you are in college.

Many math majors take a lot of course work in the sciences (physics, chemistry or biology). Others combine math with courses in computer science, or in engineering (electrical and mechanical engineering are among the most mathematical areas).

But many people go in a completely different direction, and take courses in economics or statistics, with the idea of applying math there.

Answer 2

Check around at the colleges/universities you're interested in. They probably have all the information online of required and recommended courses from high school. I just looked at my local university's entrance requirements and they have requirements that include highest level high school English (not AP, just 'regular' high school courses), the highest level math, then fulfilling other entrance requirements with choices from bio, chem, physics and a second language.

Then, looking around further at what required courses there are once in university, it's easy to see that knowledge of computers--either through high school courses or just on your own--is definitely desirable.

So have a look at the places that interest you.

Answer 3

Maths is a given. Computing, Physics, Chemistry, Biology all look good when trying for a place in a Maths Course.

Answer 4

When you start at the University, they will have a list of courses for your degree plan.

If you are still in high school, take as many math and science courses as you can.

Answer 5

If you want to know about the human body and medicine, whatever books you use make sure you get one that teaches you medical terminology - you can't learn anything about medicine without medical terms, I had to learn some when I trained to be a medical secretary. You're also going to need to know anatomy and probably biology. Ask to see a medical student's booklist or ask at the local university library. Good luck!

Answer 6

Apart, obviously, from maths/stats i think you should do whatever interests you. I did maths, economics and biology at school before going to uni to do a masters in statistics. With hindsight, I wish that I'd done art instead of the economics.