Mathematics and Computer Science at The University of Montana
Credential: Bachelor's | State: MT
Annual Completions: 1
Strong analytical and coding skills lead to high-earning tech and finance careers.
Program Analysis
The Mathematics and Computer Science program at The University of Montana offers a robust foundation for students interested in the analytical and computational aspects of both disciplines. This interdisciplinary degree equips graduates with a powerful toolkit for problem-solving, logical reasoning, and algorithmic thinking. Students will delve into core mathematical concepts such as calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and probability, alongside fundamental computer science principles including data structures, algorithms, programming languages (likely Python, Java, or C++), software development, and potentially areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, or cybersecurity. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and the ability to translate complex problems into computational solutions.
Graduates from a Mathematics and Computer Science program are well-positioned for a variety of high-demand career paths. Common job titles include Software Developer, Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Systems Analyst, Quantitative Analyst (Quant), Actuary, Cryptographer, and roles in cybersecurity or network administration. The blend of mathematical rigor and computational skills makes these graduates highly attractive to employers across technology, finance, research, and government sectors.
While specific earnings data for The University of Montana's Mathematics and Computer Science program are not available (Completions/yr: 1, Median Earnings (1yr post-grad): N/A), national averages for related fields provide a strong indication of earning potential. Entry-level Software Developers can expect salaries in the range of $60,000 - $80,000. With 5-10 years of experience, mid-level professionals often earn $80,000 - $120,000. Senior roles and specialized positions, such as Data Scientists or Quants, can command salaries exceeding $120,000, with top earners reaching $150,000+ annually. The return on investment (ROI) for a Bachelor's degree is generally positive over a career, especially in these high-earning fields, though the initial cost of the degree should be weighed against potential future earnings. Industry demand for individuals with strong quantitative and computational skills remains exceptionally high and is projected to grow. Trends in big data, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity continue to fuel this demand, making graduates with this dual specialization highly sought after.
Practical advice for prospective students includes actively participating in internships, contributing to open-source projects, building a strong portfolio of coding projects, and networking with professionals in the field. Given the limited completion data, it is crucial to connect with the department directly to understand program specifics, faculty expertise, and alumni outcomes.
Career Paths
Graduates of Mathematics and Computer Science at The University of Montana can pursue the following career paths:
- Software Developer. Median salary: $90,000, Strong growth outlook.
- Data Scientist. Median salary: $110,000, Strong growth outlook.
- Quantitative Analyst. Median salary: $100,000, Strong growth outlook.
- Systems Analyst. Median salary: $85,000, Moderate growth outlook.
- Actuary. Median salary: $95,000, Moderate growth outlook.
Skills Gained
Key skills developed in this program:
- Algorithmic Thinking
- Data Structures and Analysis
- Programming Proficiency
- Mathematical Modeling
- Problem Solving
Frequently Asked Questions about Mathematics and Computer Science at The University of Montana
Is Mathematics and Computer Science. at The University of Montana worth it?
While specific earnings data for this program at The University of Montana is unavailable, the combination of mathematics and computer science skills is highly valued in the job market. Graduates are prepared for roles that typically offer strong earning potential, with national averages for entry-level positions often starting around $60,000-$80,000 and mid-career salaries exceeding $100,000. The demand for these skills is robust, suggesting a positive return on investment over time, especially when considering the analytical and problem-solving capabilities developed. Prospective students should investigate program specifics and faculty expertise.
What jobs can I get with a Mathematics and Computer Science. degree?
A Mathematics and Computer Science degree opens doors to a wide array of analytical and technical careers. You could pursue roles such as Software Developer, building and maintaining applications; Data Scientist, analyzing complex datasets to extract insights; Quantitative Analyst, applying mathematical models to financial markets; Systems Analyst, designing and improving IT systems; or Actuary, assessing financial risks. Other potential paths include cybersecurity specialist, cryptographer, or research scientist, leveraging the strong foundation in both theoretical mathematics and practical computation.
How much do Mathematics and Computer Science. graduates earn?
Graduates with a Mathematics and Computer Science background typically command competitive salaries. Entry-level positions, such as Junior Software Developer or Data Analyst, can expect to earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually. With 5-10 years of experience, mid-level professionals in roles like Software Engineer or Data Scientist often see their salaries rise to $80,000 - $120,000. Senior positions, specialized roles like Lead Data Scientist or Quantitative Trader, and those in high-cost-of-living areas can earn well over $120,000, with top performers reaching $150,000+.
Explore More
- All programs at The University of Montana
- Colleges in Montana
- College Majors
- Career Guides
- Salary by Major
- College Rankings
- H-1B Visa Salaries — Employer-reported salary data for visa workers
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.