
Mathematics
Welcome to the Department of Mathematics
We understand that mathematics is a powerful tool for understanding the world around us and a cornerstone of progress across all sectors.
About the Mathematics Department
The Department of Mathematics at CWU is a vibrant hub of academic excellence, innovation, and inspiration that stands at the center of a better future. We offer a rich selection of programs, including actuarial science, applied mathematics, data science, and various levels of mathematics education. Each program is designed to provide a solid foundation in mathematical theories while emphasizing their real-world applications.
Student Information
Index page for the Student Information section of the Mathematics department site.
Kryptos Challenges
Index page for the Kryptos Challenges section of the Mathematics department site.
CWU Scholarships
Scholarships at Central Washington University
Undergraduate Degrees
Undergraduate mathematics degrees
Departmental Policies
Departmental policies for the Department of Mathematics
Mission Statement
Mission statement for the Department of Mathematics
Request Information
Request information on the Math Department at CWU
Middle-level Mathematics Request Form
Request more information on the Middle-level Mathematics program at CWU.
Why Study Math at CWU?
Learning at CWU extends beyond textbooks and lectures.
Our department hosts workshops, seminars, research projects, and community outreach initiatives. We don't just teach mathematics—we explore it. Our faculty of mathematicians and educators are not only experts in their field. They serve as mentors, providing individualized attention and fostering an environment that encourages questioning, discovery, and innovation.
Degree Options
Join the CWU Mathematics Department and choose from our undergraduate and certificate programs designed to further your education and prepare you for a rewarding career.
Undergraduate
- Mathematics: Middle-Level Education, BA
- Mathematics: Secondary Education, BA
- Actuarial Science, BS
- Applied Mathematics, BS
- Data Science, BS - Statistical Data Science Specialization
Minors and Certificates
- Mathematics Honors Certificate
- Mathematics Minor
- Mathematics: Elementary Math Minor
Admissions
For general university admissions information, contact the Office of Admissions. For advising information, contact the Academic Advising Center.
Highlights
Breaking Ciphers
CWU Mathematics students regularly compete in the annual Kryptos competition, which is centered around the breaking, or cryptanalysis, of ciphers (secret writing). In 2022, CWU students Ethan Davis, James Mathis, Alice Williams, and Ashlyn Huber were recognized for their code-cracking skills.
Teaching STEM
Central Washington University has received a $1.5 million, six-year grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), which will be used to establish the Washington STEM Teachers Engaging in Leadership, Learning and Research (WA-STELLAR) program.
CWU News

CWU selects new executive director of Institutional Effectiveness
September 21, 2023
by University Relations

State of the University address scheduled for September 29
September 20, 2023
by University Relations

New exhibit to open September 28 at Sarah Spurgeon Gallery
September 18, 2023
by Heather Johnson