Mathematical Sciences
Mathematical sciences are an integral part of a liberal arts education. Mathematics, statistics, and computer science will provide you with ways to describe the world we live in and our relationship to it.
Why Choose a Degree in Mathematics?
The mathematical sciences are structural mechanisms providing context for speculation and discovery; important tools for illuminating theories and implementing techniques from other disciplines; and art forms exhibiting aesthetic values. Our department prides itself on fostering a diverse community of students and faculty, where everyone is welcomed. You will graduate with a degree in mathematical sciences while being encouraged to engage deeply with the practice, passion, communication, and context of mathematical inquiry.
What You’ll Study
We offer three majors (computer science, computer science and mathematics, and mathematics) and two minors (computer science and mathematics) with several tracks depending on your interests. At the heart of our curriculum are the development of conceptual and computational intuition, sophistication in the analysis of complicated structures, and the interplay of these two with broadly based sets of technical skills and techniques. Many of our students earn course credit toward their computer science degree while on an overseas program.
Outside the classroom, we sponsor an annual math hike on Mount Hood or at the Oregon Coast. The physical layout of our department includes a space where students can gather in close proximity to faculty offices to study, socialize, and share a meal. We host a regular colloquium series featuring presentations by students, faculty, and guest speakers. We regularly participate in the William Lowell Putnam undergraduate mathematics competition, the COMAP Mathematical Contest in Modeling, the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest, and cybersecurity competitions NCL and PRCCDC. Our faculty mentor students in research experiences during the academic year and through the paid Rogers Summer Science Program.
Complement Your Education With One of These Minors
The most popular minors for our computer science majors are data science, entrepreneurial leadership and innovation, and philosophy.
Anna Schall BA ’20More about AnnaThere’s no one right way to do college. Just try your best and don’t sweat the little things.
Jenn Sosa Ramírez BA ’23More about JennI love how interdisciplinary my Hispanic studies major is because I’ve gotten to take courses from different departments like history and music, and I got to study abroad in Spain!
Charlotte Brownstone BA ’20More about CharlotteI loved how Professor Leonard incorporated current events and supplementary readings into the course, rather than just having us read out of the textbook.
What Can You Do With a Degree in Mathematics?
Our alumni use their BA in mathematics in a variety of careers in research, academia, and at companies such as Nike, Suplari, Downstream, and Mentor Graphics. Many start their own companies, or go on to pursue advanced degrees.
Dedicated Faculty
Our expert professors are your expert mentors. You will learn directly from faculty (no graduate assistants here!) that are nationally recognized in their fields of study and who love to work with and learn from their students. Your professors will inspire you to be a thoughtful and passionate participant in a diverse world. Your small classes will support you as you explore new ideas, find your voice, and speak your truth.
Invest in Yourself
A private liberal arts education is often more affordable than you think. Last year, Lewis & Clark distributed over $74 million in assistance from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. Additionally, we’re so confident that our first-year students will graduate in four years with their bachelor of arts degree that if you don’t, we’ll cover the extra semester of tuition.
There are several scholarships and funds specifically for students in the mathematical sciences department. The Mathematical Sciences Student Assistance and Enrichment Fund provides assistance to eligible students with financial need and recognizes an outstanding graduating senior in the department. The Isaac Clark Memorial Fund for Physics and Mathematical Sciences provides grants for various educational opportunities for students in physics and mathematical sciences who demonstrate strong academic and leadership skills. The Christine Fredricks Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund is awarded annually to an outstanding junior or senior mathematics major who has demonstrated significant contributions to the department. The Mathematics Alumni Scholarship Fund, the premier award funded by mathematics alumni, supports an outstanding mathematics major, regardless of class standing, who has shown exceptional promise in the field of mathematics. The Shannon T. O’Leary Award is presented annually to a promising student in physics or mathematics, preferably a woman, to enhance their independent research efforts.
Find Your People
The student-run Math Club and the student chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery organize social and academic events, including panels and a pumpkin-carving contest held shortly before Halloween.
Where Lewis & Clark Will Take You
Syrah Starnes BA ’20More about SyrahSince starting graduate school, I’ve grown to really appreciate the liberal arts education and academic rigor of my undergraduate education. The small class sizes and mentorship from professors at L&C mirrors that of my graduate school experience.
Liz LeJeune BA ’22More about LizMy time at Lewis & Clark helped foster my curiosity and desire to learn, and I learned a great deal about effective communication and building connections with people.
Megan Ayers BA ’19More about MeganSince the fall of 2020 I have been a PhD student at Yale in the Statistics & Data Science department, and just advanced to candidacy in the spring.
Featured News
Q&A with Andy Fry, Assistant Professor of Mathematical Science
Assistant Professor of Mathematical Science Andy Fry’s studies combinatorial aspects of algebraic geometry, moduli spaces, matroid theory, and general combinatorics.
