What Are the Math Minor Requirements at WVU?

West Virginia University (WVU) is a large public university located in Morgantown, West Virginia.

WVU is designated as an R1 research institution, due to its high level of research activity and prestigious degree programs.

Students who would like to add quantitative reasoning skills to their education can benefit from a minor in math.

Learning more about the WVU math minor requirements allows students to customize a degree that will prepare them for long-term success.

About WVU's Math Minor Requirements

WVU has a strong math department with a range of comprehensive programs offered. Math degrees at WVU have a data science focus and will give students marketable skills.

All math minors at WVU require students to maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA in the classes applied to the minor.

Here are the WVU math minor requirements and courses for the different minors offered.

Applied Math Minor

Applied math uses mathematical techniques and methods to solve practical problems. A minor in applied math is a great choice for students who want to apply math skills in a job context.

The core courses required for the applied math minor are:

• Multivariable Calculus
• Elementary Differential Equations

Students must also select one course from the following list:

• Applied Modern Algebra
• Discrete Mathematics
• Numerical Analysis 1
• Complex Variables
• Introduction to Dynamical Systems and Applications
• Partial Differential Equations

To complete the minor, students must also complete two upper-division (300 or above) math classes.

Pure Math Minor

Pure math focuses on the theoretical side of math and allows students to dive deeper into fascinating theorems and conjectures.

Core classes required for the pure math minor are:

• Multivariable Calculus
• Elementary Differential Equations

Students must also select one of:

• Introduction to Algebraic Structures
• Introduction to Linear Algebra
• Discrete Mathematics
• Introduction to Analysis and Topology
• Introduction to Real Analysis 1

The pure math minor also requires students to select two more math classes 300-level or above.

Actuarial Science Minor

Actuarial Science is the application of math to fields such as finance and insurance. Actuaries assess risks and create probabilistic models that help organizations plan for the future.

The actuarial science minor requires students to complete the following core classes:

• Multivariable Calculus
• Mathematical Foundations of Actuarial Science
• Mathematics of Compound Interest
• Actuarial Mathematics 1

Students must also select one elective from the following:

• Applied Linear Algebra
• Actuarial Mathematics 2
• Introduction to Probability Theory

What is the Hardest Class in WVU's Math Minor?

Students who choose to study math are often up for a challenge. Learning advanced topics in math can be a rewarding challenge that leaves students with rare skills and a strong sense of confidence.

Each student will have a different experience depending on their interests, previous education, and the instructor delivering the content.

Real analysis, topology, and partial differential equations are considered to be advanced topics in mathematics and can be challenging for many students.

Students who struggle with a class can benefit from additional tutoring. Finding a class or topic difficult is a normal part of the education process and can help students grow.

What Can You Do With a Math Minor?

What students do with a math minor depends partially on their primary area of study. Some students may select a minor in math to satisfy their intellectual curiosity while others may have specific career goals associated with their math training.

Here are some job roles that can benefit from mathematical training:

• actuary
• data scientist
• economist
• research scientist
• entrepreneur
• math teacher
• mathematician

Should I Complete a Math Minor at WVU?

Yes, the WVU math minor requirements are designed to make each minor a valuable addition to any degree. A minor in math displays ambition and strong reasoning skills.

Adding a math minor to a degree can give students a competitive advantage in the job market.

How to Pay for a Math Degree

A college degree can be a gateway to new career opportunities but tuition costs can be a barrier for many students.

The best way to make a college degree affordable is to select a university with reasonable tuition rates and maximize all sources of financial aid.

The financial aid team will help you find grants, scholarships, and tuition waivers that can help lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Merit-based scholarships can help students with high academic achievement while need-based sources of funding can assist students with limited financial resources.

Find a Math Degree Today

Understanding the WVU math minor requirements can help students design a degree that fits their needs. Let Learn.org help you find the perfect program and start right away.