Do you find joy in solving puzzles? Do you find fractals fascinating, symmetry scintillating, game strategies gripping, or patterns provocative? If so, you may be interested in our thriving mathematics program at Goshen College.
Math is present in every aspect of life, from the taxes we pay and the weather we enjoy to modern engineering and manufacturing. Math students at Goshen College will develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving tools for looking at their community and the contemporary world in a new way. You will gain experience in both pure mathematics and applied mathematics, learning to use math as a tool for solving real-life puzzles.
In an era where computing power has become ubiquitous, our mathematics students focus on core content, the interconnection of relevant ideas, and use all available tools to solve problems. The math program at Goshen College is well-rounded, providing you with a strong foundation in mathematics courses, including linear algebra, number theory, abstract thinking, abstract concepts, complex variables, computer programming, data science, geometry, calculus, and probability.
Every course involves project work and research projects that explore ideas and applications in greater depth. Such projects could include the optimal placement of firebreaks to contain forest fires in Calculus I, modeling mechanical and electronic circuits in Differential Equations, or explaining strategic choices by nations in Game Theory.
By repeatedly engaging in such projects, students studying in math also develop skills like communication and collaboration, which are highly valued by employers. The major culminates in a capstone experience in which math students will complete a significant research project or internship.
Our mathematics program provides you with a broad range of skills you can apply in many different settings. Mathematics students at Goshen College have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields after earning their bachelor’s degree, from teaching and actuarial science to software engineering and nursing.
Since mathematics majors tend to be an eclectic group, most take on a second major like physics, computer science, education, music, or history. Many students intern with businesses, financial firms, and nonprofit organizations that value their modeling, statistics, and computer skills. Others spend a summer participating in the Maple Scholars research program working one-on-one with faculty members in areas such as fair allocation and game theory.
Graduates of our program have become teachers, administrators, software engineers, architects, actuaries, authors, actors, and farmers. If you are interested in mathematics, we encourage you to explore our program and consider the exciting and rewarding opportunities of working with numbers.
A major or minor in math can take you anywhere. With a degree in mathematics from Goshen College, you will have the skills you need to succeed in any field you choose. Our mathematics program emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking, so you will be prepared to tackle whatever challenges come your way.
We are excited to answer any questions you have about our mathematics program. For more information about studying mathematics at Goshen College, fill out the information request form below. Financial aid options are available.
David L. Hershberger '73 is the recipient of the National Association of Broadcaster's (NAB) 2021 Engineering Achievement Award for Radio. Hershberger co-developed the world’s first digital FM exciter as an experimental prototype and holds 21 U.S. patents.
Ebtihal Abdelaziz, a senior mathematics and physics double major from Cairo, Egypt, is helping the world better understand the universe through a dream internship at Fermilab, a particle physics and accelerator laboratory in Chicago.
Joanna Masingila '82 announced that she will soon conclude her tenure as dean of the School of Education and begin a one-year research leave effective Aug. 1 in anticipation of returning to the faculty with a dual appointment in the School of Education and the College of Arts and Sciences.
Number of weeks you can research mathematics during the Maple Scholars research program
of alumni agreed that mathematics professors are genuinely interest in their students
average salary of GC graduates 10 years out
Learn more about Goshen College's exceptional academic outcomes and national rankings.
Sean Kauffman, a 2005 computer science graduate, is a principal software engineer at Oracle in Seattle, having survived two acquisitions to arrive there.
Sean's storyPeter Miller, a computer science and applied math major, graduated from Goshen College in 2011. Today, he runs CodePurple, a company that provides on-campus opportunities for students to practice programming.
Peter's storyRosanna Nafziger Henderson graduated from Goshen College in 2006 with majors in English and math--not the most obvious path to becoming an authority on food.
David Housman is passionate about connecting mathematics and computing with other disciplines and faith.
David's storyLeah Landes is a 2017 math education graduate from Saint Louis, Missouri. She is looking forward to using her degree to teach math to junior high students.
Leah's storyMichelle Espino, a 2014 grad who majored in physics and mathematics, is an avid Colts fan and loves listening to The Beatles. At Goshen, Michelle balanced classes, track practices and mentoring at a local high school.
Michelle's storyDavid Housman
Professor of Mathematics & Department Chair
