Department of Mathematics and Statistics

Math that matters

More than equations and datasets, mathematics and statistics are ways of understanding patterns and predicting outcomes. They’re used to solve problems that shape everyday life. A career in mathematics and statistics could look like analyzing climate data, modeling financial risk, optimizing engineering systems, or designing algorithms. If this sounds like your kind of challenge, and you enjoy puzzles, patterns, and logic, you’re already on the right path. Now it’s about finding support to keep going.

Why study Mathematics and Statistics at NAU

At NAU, you’ll be part of a department that values your growth as much as your grades. With small classes and faculty mentors, you’ll build the momentum you need to succeed. As you explore flexible degree paths in mathematics, statistics, data science, and actuarial science, you’ll also gain practical experience through research, teaching, and applied analytics.

You’ll also have access to specialized resources like the Lumberjack Mathematics Center and the Statistical Consulting Lab and have the option to take your mathematical journey further with master's degrees in mathematics, statistics, and mathematics education.

Learning outcomes

As a Mathematics and Statistics major at NAU, you will:

• develop a deep understanding of the theoretical aspects of mathematics, particularly in the areas of analysis, abstract algebra and statistics, to analyze the structure of mathematical objects and formulate logical arguments for general mathematical propositions.
• use fundamental skills to read and interpret mathematical literature (textbooks, journals, papers, etc.) to continue independent learning and reasoning.
• communicate mathematical principles and ideas with clarity and coherence, both written and verbally, demonstrating communication skills to be used in any future career.
• collaborate with peers and/or faculty on mathematical problems demonstrating cooperative working skills.

Student clubs and organizations

Help where you need it

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics provides resources to all students, regardless of major, to help you sharpen your skills and stay on track.

Dedicated support

Support at NAU’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics is both personal and practical. You’ll benefit from individuated attention from faculty, opportunities for undergraduate and graduate research, paid student positions, small class sizes, and rigorous coursework that encourages curiosity and persistence. 

Faculty mentorship

You’ll have guidance from faculty as you challenge concepts and sharpen your proof-writing and analytical reasoning. You’ll also have the opportunity to work alongside faculty through seminars like Friday Afternoon Mathematics Undergraduate Seminar (FAMUS), research collaborations, and conference presentation opportunities.

Scholarships and financial aid

NAU is committed to keeping high-quality education accessible and affordable. As a Mathematics and Statistics student, you can search ScholarshipUniverse for scholarships that align with your goals and interests, earn money through student jobs or teaching assistantships, and access financial aid resources, all to help you focus on academics without added stress. 

Career readiness

Throughout your coursework in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, you’ll strengthen skills that apply to any industry: data analysis, programming, teaching, problem-solving, and collaboration. By the time you graduate, you’ll know how to use math and statistics to teach, model systems, drive decisions, and create solutions in classrooms, labs, tech companies, financial firms, research organizations, and beyond!