With connections to many disciplines, mathematics is vital in understanding science, technology, and society.
The Department of Mathematics provides students with essential foundational math knowledge while allowing them to tailor their studies to their areas of interest. Entry-level courses in the department introduce students to basic concepts and hint at some of the power and beauty behind these fundamental results, while upper-level courses and the capstone experience provide students with the opportunity to explore mathematical topics in greater depth and sophistication.
Peter N. Philbin, Academic Administrative Assistant
Hathorn Hall
Phone: 207-753-6963
pphilbin@bates.edu
Recent math graduates have pursued a variety of careers: public health, software engineering, biostatistics, law, consulting, education, and sports statistics, to name a few. Whether working as data scientists at Spotify, biostatisticians on AIDS research, or principal engineers for acoustical engineering firms, graduates from the program have found a wide range of uses for their degrees.
of 2020-2024 Bates graduates are employed and/or attending graduate school — settled into their next opportunity within 6 months of graduation.
“My mathematics major at Bates played a defining role in shaping my career as a teacher and tutor. It strengthened my ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate complex ideas in clear, engaging ways. My thesis on engaging middle school students in math deepened my passion for education and continues to influence my approach. Today, I run my own tutoring business (mindzonthemove.com), working both independently and online, which gives me flexibility and freedom to support students in a way that aligns with my values. I’m especially grateful for the guidance of my advisor, who helped shape my path.”
— Lauren Berube ‘22
Mathematics is an integral part of a liberal arts education. Students can choose to focus on theoretical or applied mathematics courses, and mathematics majors at Bates often double major in a related field, such as economics, physics, or engineering. Students get the chance to engage in math beyond the classroom, whether through math competitions, community-engaged learning opportunities at local schools and nonprofits, or on-campus math seminars.
Faculty members teach classes across a wide range of subjects and come from a diverse set of academic backgrounds, with expertise in various aspects of the field. Specialty areas include mathematical epidemiology, noncommutative algebra, mathematical ecology, and algebraic geometry.
As Bates softball celebrates its 50th anniversary, the program is moving forward with a significant transformation of its home facility at Lafayette Street Field — marking a major investment in the future of softball at Bates.
Sixteen current and former Bates students have been offered Fulbright Student international exchange awards for 2026–2027.
More than 60 performers participated in this year’s cultural showcase which highlights and celebrates — through performance — diverse cultures of the Caribbean and Latin American students at Bates. This year’s showcase on April 17 was entitled “Here to Stay: Rhythms that Raised Us,” which points to both the past and future cultural influence of Latine and Caribbean cultures in the United States and at Bates.
