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The mathematics department provides two degree options: the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science. Both curricula share foundational mathematics coursework and equip students for advanced mathematics studies. The Bachelor of Arts program emphasizes mathematical applications in arts and humanities disciplines. Meanwhile, the Bachelor of Science program offers specialized tracks including actuarial science, applied mathematics, computational mathematics, systems analysis, and preparation for graduate studies.
Several tracks cater to students pursuing mathematical careers in business, industry, or public sector roles. The degree programs offer adaptable requirements to accommodate diverse academic interests. Students should consult with faculty advisors to choose their specialization track, ideally by their second undergraduate year.
The majority of Penn State’s applications come from traditional, first-year students. The following types of students are considered first-year applicants (or freshman applicants, as some refer to them): Current high school student in his or her senior year; Student who has earned a high school diploma or a GED and has no post-secondary coursework; Student who has attempted 17 or fewer credits (semester hours) of college coursework at a regionally accredited college/university before attending Penn State; Current high school student who may have enrolled in another institution(s) before graduating from high school (dual enrollment); Student who may have attended Penn State on a nondegree basis.
English Language Proficiency
The following are ways in which you can satisfy the language proficiency requirement: TOEFL: A minimum TOEFL score of 80 on the Internet-based TOEFL or 550 on the old paper exam and a minimum of 20 in each section of the new paper exam (code #2660); IELTS: A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 on the academic test.