At William Penn University, the Mathematics Department equips students with essential skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and abstract reasoning—tools that are vital for success in today’s dynamic professional landscape. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students benefit from personalized attention and one-on-one mentorship that fosters both academic excellence and confidence.
Applied Mathematics Program
The Applied Mathematics major allows students to implement what they have learned to other areas of study, while taking fewer math courses. Graduates in this department are in high demand and tend to receive higher starting salaries and more job offers than they expected. Employers, in any job, look for success in math and see it as a sign of strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
General Mathematics Program
The General Mathematics program offers students the opportunity to develop and acquire necessary undergraduate knowledge in a variety of related mathematics topics and essential skills to be utilized in changing environments through a mixture of problem solving, application, and fundamental theory. A secondary teaching endorsement and a minor in mathematics are also available.
Careers
General and Applied Mathematics graduates have continued their education in graduate school or have found employment within the following areas or companies:
Engineers
Statisticians
Actuaries
High school teacher
College professor
Graduate school (medical and law)
Cambridge Investment Research
Prism Projection
Pella Corporation
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
State Farm Insurance
Musco Sports Lighting, LLC.
Internships
If a student is considering attending graduate school and would like to obtain real-world experience to enhance their higher education capabilities, an internship is an excellent opportunity to explore his or her chosen field. Internships provide great opportunities for networking and meeting other individuals in the chosen field. Students of the Applied and General Mathematics programs have completed internships at:
EMC Insurance Company
Principle Financial Group
Athene Insurance Company
Musco Sports Lighting, LLC.
Organizations
The Math Club is open to all William Penn students. Each year, club members organize trips to conferences and symposium, including the Undergraduate Symposiums, at the Argonne National Laboratory and an annual mathematics conference at Simpson College. A few members will have the chance to spend time working as tutors with fellow Penn students or Oskaloosa High School students to enhance their abilities in the field of mathematics.