New Math Major Tracks Will Ready SHU Students for Competitive Careers

New tracks target subject areas that are in demand today

Sacred Heart University’s mathematics department will initiate improved programs in the fall semester, dividing its major into three tracks: traditional, actuarial science and data science.

The traditional track, which resembles the current math major, includes core courses in calculus, linear algebra, analysis and abstract algebra. “This track will suit students who want to teach math at the high school level, have prospects for graduate school, or who simply want broad-based mathematical knowledge that can open doors to a variety of careers,” said Jason Molitierno, mathematics department chair.

The actuarial science track is for students who want to pursue a career as an actuary (professionals who manage and measure risk and uncertainty). Students will study calculus, linear algebra, theoretical and applied math, probability, statistics, accounting, finance and actuarial mathematics, in preparation for their first three actuarial exams. Coinciding with this  new track, the mathematics department and the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology are applying for inclusion on the Society of Actuaries UCAP-IC list.

The data science track readies students for careers in computer science, business, statistics, data mining and big data, all of which are in demand. The curriculum will include calculus, linear algebra, statistics, theoretical and applied math, computer programming, data structures, financial analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning.  

“Actuarial science and data science are hot fields, and we’re offering these tracks to ensure that students who want to pursue these careers are well prepared to succeed,” Molitierno said. “As we enter a new decade, these updates in the math major make our offerings more pertinent to workplace needs. We see the new math major as a dynamic curriculum that will prepare students well for their chosen careers.”

Photo caption: Math Professor and Chair Jason Molitierno, Ph.D., teaches a mathematical statistics class at the Martire Center for the Liberal Arts.