Mathematics (BS)

Program Code: U-MATH-BS
Degree Designation: Bachelor of Science
Department: Mathematics Department
Website: math.duke.edu/undergraduate/major

Program Summary

The Department of Mathematics offers both the AB degree and the BS degree. Students who plan to attend graduate school in mathematics or the sciences should consider working toward the BS degree, which requires at least eight courses in mathematics numbered Mathematics 230 or above. The AB degree requires at least seven courses in mathematics numbered Mathematics 230 or above. At least half of the major/minor courses numbered above 212 should be taken at Duke. In particular, Mathematics 401 (or 501) and 431 (or 531) should be taken at Duke. 

The director of undergraduate studies can be consulted for additional information and advice on course selection. The Handbook for Mathematics Majors and Minors, published by the department, can be used as a guide in developing a coherent program of study consistent with professional goals.

Go to Programs by Department to view all related programs.

Academic Requirements

At least 14 units total to complete the major. At least 34 units total to earn a degree.

• Prerequisites (4 units)

  • Calculus I: MATH 21, or MATH 105L & 106L, or MATH 111L, or MATH 121

  • Calculus II: MATH 22, or MATH 112L, or MATH 122L

  • Multivariable Calculus: MATH 212, or MATH 219, or MATH 222

  • Linear Algebra: MATH 221, or MATH 218D & 240, 242, or 245

• Algebra (1 unit)

  • MATH 401

  • MATH 501

• Real Analysis (1 unit)

  • MATH 431

  • MATH 531

• Require course (1 unit)

  • Any 1 course from the following: MATH 333, 342, 411, 412, 421, 502, 532, 541, 581

• Additional Math Courses (5 units)

  • Any 5 MATH courses numbered 226 and above

  • Must include at least 3 MATH courses 300-level and above

• Science Courses (2 units)

  • 2 courses from any 1 of the following areas:

    • Biology: BIOLOGY 201L & 202L, or BIOLOGY 203L & 215, or BIOLOGY 201L or 203L and 1 of: BIOLOGY 209, 329D, or 460

    • Chemistry: CHEM 201DL and 1 of: CHEM 21, 101DL, or 110DL

    • Computer Science: COMPSCI 330 and 1 of: COMPSCI 334 or 335

    • Economics: ECON 205D & 210D

    • Physics: 1 of: PHYSICS 25, 141L, 151L, or 161D, and 1 of: PHYSICS 26, 142L, 152L, 162D

    • Statistical Science: STA 210L & 360L

Departmental Graduation with Distinction

The department offers a program for Graduation with Distinction in mathematics. See the Handbook for Mathematics Majors and Minors and also the section on honors in this bulletin.