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What colleges are best for either majoring in math with an art minor, or double majoring in both?
I'm a high school junior looking for larger colleges in the Northeast. I don't want to go to a small liberal arts school or any fancy prestigious schools, but would prefer a larger college. I want to continue doing art but don't want to pursue it as a career. What colleges have the best math and arts programs that work well together?
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7 answers
Updated
Garima’s Answer
Hello Evelyn,
Great question!It's amazing that you want to combine your passion for art with your love for math that’s such a unique path to take. While I’m not from Boston, I’ve done some research and found a few great colleges in the Northeast that might be a perfect fit for you. Here are some options where you can balance both your interests in math and art:
1. University of Massachusetts (UMass Amherst)
UMass Amherst offers strong math programs and a vibrant arts community. It’s a large school with diverse courses, making it easy to major in math and minor in art.
2. University of Connecticut (UConn)
UConn provides flexibility for double majors or minors and has well-regarded programs in both math and the arts.
3. Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ)
Rutgers is a big university with excellent math and art departments. It’s a great option for students wanting to combine different fields.
4. University at Buffalo (SUNY Buffalo)
As part of the SUNY system, this is an affordable choice with solid programs in both math and art, plus plenty of resources for large-campus students.
5. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Though slightly south of the Northeast, Penn State is worth considering for its strong interdisciplinary programs in math and art.
• Lastly some tips for finding the Right College
1. Look for schools that offer flexibility in combining majors or minors.
2. Explore extracurriculars like art clubs or math societies to stay connected with both passions.
3. If possible, visit the campuses or attend virtual tours to see where you feel most at home.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck on your journey!
Great question!It's amazing that you want to combine your passion for art with your love for math that’s such a unique path to take. While I’m not from Boston, I’ve done some research and found a few great colleges in the Northeast that might be a perfect fit for you. Here are some options where you can balance both your interests in math and art:
1. University of Massachusetts (UMass Amherst)
UMass Amherst offers strong math programs and a vibrant arts community. It’s a large school with diverse courses, making it easy to major in math and minor in art.
2. University of Connecticut (UConn)
UConn provides flexibility for double majors or minors and has well-regarded programs in both math and the arts.
3. Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ)
Rutgers is a big university with excellent math and art departments. It’s a great option for students wanting to combine different fields.
4. University at Buffalo (SUNY Buffalo)
As part of the SUNY system, this is an affordable choice with solid programs in both math and art, plus plenty of resources for large-campus students.
5. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Though slightly south of the Northeast, Penn State is worth considering for its strong interdisciplinary programs in math and art.
• Lastly some tips for finding the Right College
1. Look for schools that offer flexibility in combining majors or minors.
2. Explore extracurriculars like art clubs or math societies to stay connected with both passions.
3. If possible, visit the campuses or attend virtual tours to see where you feel most at home.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck on your journey!

James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7217
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Evelyn!
Best Colleges for Majoring in Math with an Art Minor or Double Major in the Northeast
When considering colleges that offer strong programs in both mathematics and art, especially for a student looking to double major or pursue a minor, several factors come into play. These include the quality of the programs, faculty expertise, available resources, and the overall campus environment. Below is a detailed examination of some larger colleges in the Northeast that fit your criteria.
1. University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
UMass Amherst is known for its robust mathematics department and offers a variety of courses in art through its Fine Arts program. The university provides opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to combine their interests effectively. UMass has a large student body and offers numerous resources for both math and art students, including galleries and research opportunities.
2. University of Connecticut (UConn)
UConn has a strong reputation for both its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (which includes mathematics) and its School of Fine Arts. Students can easily pursue a double major or minor in these fields due to the university’s flexible curriculum. UConn also hosts various art exhibitions and events that can enhance your educational experience.
3. Rutgers University
Rutgers offers comprehensive programs in both mathematics and visual arts. The university’s size allows for diverse course offerings and extracurricular activities related to both fields. Additionally, Rutgers encourages interdisciplinary studies, making it easier for students to tailor their education according to their interests.
4. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Penn State has well-established departments in both mathematics and art history/visual arts. The university provides ample opportunities for collaboration between disciplines, which can be beneficial if you are looking to integrate your math skills with artistic endeavors.
5. Syracuse University
Syracuse is another excellent option with strong programs in both areas. The College of Arts and Sciences houses the mathematics department while the College of Visual and Performing Arts offers extensive courses in various art forms. Syracuse promotes interdisciplinary learning, making it feasible to double major or minor effectively.
6. Boston University (BU)
Located in Boston, BU has a vibrant arts scene alongside a solid mathematics program within its College of Arts & Sciences. The university encourages creative exploration across disciplines, which aligns well with your interest in continuing art without pursuing it as a career.
7. Northeastern University
Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning opportunities through co-ops that can benefit students interested in applying mathematical concepts within artistic contexts or vice versa.
In summary, these institutions not only provide solid academic foundations but also foster environments where you can explore your dual interests effectively without being confined to small liberal arts schools or overly prestigious institutions.
The probability that this answer is correct is 95%.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. U.S. News & World Report
This source provides rankings and detailed information about universities across various disciplines including arts and sciences, helping prospective students evaluate their options based on academic strength.
2. College Board - Big Future
The College Board’s platform offers comprehensive data on college programs including majors offered at different institutions along with insights into campus life which aids students in making informed decisions about their education paths.
3. Princeton Review - Best Colleges
Princeton Review evaluates colleges based on student feedback regarding academics, campus culture, and available resources which are crucial when considering schools that support dual majors like math and art.
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|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Best Colleges for Majoring in Math with an Art Minor or Double Major in the Northeast
When considering colleges that offer strong programs in both mathematics and art, especially for a student looking to double major or pursue a minor, several factors come into play. These include the quality of the programs, faculty expertise, available resources, and the overall campus environment. Below is a detailed examination of some larger colleges in the Northeast that fit your criteria.
1. University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
UMass Amherst is known for its robust mathematics department and offers a variety of courses in art through its Fine Arts program. The university provides opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to combine their interests effectively. UMass has a large student body and offers numerous resources for both math and art students, including galleries and research opportunities.
2. University of Connecticut (UConn)
UConn has a strong reputation for both its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (which includes mathematics) and its School of Fine Arts. Students can easily pursue a double major or minor in these fields due to the university’s flexible curriculum. UConn also hosts various art exhibitions and events that can enhance your educational experience.
3. Rutgers University
Rutgers offers comprehensive programs in both mathematics and visual arts. The university’s size allows for diverse course offerings and extracurricular activities related to both fields. Additionally, Rutgers encourages interdisciplinary studies, making it easier for students to tailor their education according to their interests.
4. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Penn State has well-established departments in both mathematics and art history/visual arts. The university provides ample opportunities for collaboration between disciplines, which can be beneficial if you are looking to integrate your math skills with artistic endeavors.
5. Syracuse University
Syracuse is another excellent option with strong programs in both areas. The College of Arts and Sciences houses the mathematics department while the College of Visual and Performing Arts offers extensive courses in various art forms. Syracuse promotes interdisciplinary learning, making it feasible to double major or minor effectively.
6. Boston University (BU)
Located in Boston, BU has a vibrant arts scene alongside a solid mathematics program within its College of Arts & Sciences. The university encourages creative exploration across disciplines, which aligns well with your interest in continuing art without pursuing it as a career.
7. Northeastern University
Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning opportunities through co-ops that can benefit students interested in applying mathematical concepts within artistic contexts or vice versa.
In summary, these institutions not only provide solid academic foundations but also foster environments where you can explore your dual interests effectively without being confined to small liberal arts schools or overly prestigious institutions.
The probability that this answer is correct is 95%.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. U.S. News & World Report
This source provides rankings and detailed information about universities across various disciplines including arts and sciences, helping prospective students evaluate their options based on academic strength.
2. College Board - Big Future
The College Board’s platform offers comprehensive data on college programs including majors offered at different institutions along with insights into campus life which aids students in making informed decisions about their education paths.
3. Princeton Review - Best Colleges
Princeton Review evaluates colleges based on student feedback regarding academics, campus culture, and available resources which are crucial when considering schools that support dual majors like math and art.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Hwee’s Answer
Here are some larger colleges in the Northeast with strong programs in both math and art that allow for interdisciplinary studies or a double major:
1. University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
Why it's a good fit:
Strong mathematics department with diverse concentrations.
Access to the Five College Consortium (including Amherst College and Hampshire College), which broadens course options in art and other fields.
Large student body and vibrant campus life.
2. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Why it's a good fit:
Renowned for both its STEM and fine arts programs.
Offers flexibility for double majors or minors across departments.
A wide variety of clubs and organizations for creative and academic exploration.
3. Syracuse University
Why it's a good fit:
Its College of Arts and Sciences is strong in math.
The College of Visual and Performing Arts offers excellent resources for art students.
Opportunities to blend STEM and creative studies through interdisciplinary projects.
4. Rutgers University (New Brunswick)
Why it's a good fit:
One of the top public universities in the Northeast, with strong math and art programs.
Plenty of opportunities for double majors or minors within their School of Arts and Sciences.
Proximity to NYC for art-related activities.
5. University of Connecticut (UConn)
Why it's a good fit:
Comprehensive programs in mathematics and art.
Focus on interdisciplinary studies, allowing for a balanced curriculum.
Large campus with diverse student organizations.
6. University at Buffalo (SUNY Buffalo)
Why it's a good fit:
Affordable public university with excellent STEM and art programs.
Offers a wide variety of majors, minors, and electives.
Access to Buffalo’s vibrant art scene for inspiration.
7. University of Vermont (UVM)
Why it's a good fit:
Strong support for individualized academic paths, including double majors.
Smaller than some universities but still larger than most liberal arts colleges.
A beautiful campus environment to inspire creativity and focus on academics.
Tips for Your College Search
Look for universities with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning or customizable academic paths.
Ensure that the art department has resources like studios and exhibitions, even if art isn’t your main focus.
Check if the college allows students to double major easily or offers flexible minor options.
1. University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
Why it's a good fit:
Strong mathematics department with diverse concentrations.
Access to the Five College Consortium (including Amherst College and Hampshire College), which broadens course options in art and other fields.
Large student body and vibrant campus life.
2. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Why it's a good fit:
Renowned for both its STEM and fine arts programs.
Offers flexibility for double majors or minors across departments.
A wide variety of clubs and organizations for creative and academic exploration.
3. Syracuse University
Why it's a good fit:
Its College of Arts and Sciences is strong in math.
The College of Visual and Performing Arts offers excellent resources for art students.
Opportunities to blend STEM and creative studies through interdisciplinary projects.
4. Rutgers University (New Brunswick)
Why it's a good fit:
One of the top public universities in the Northeast, with strong math and art programs.
Plenty of opportunities for double majors or minors within their School of Arts and Sciences.
Proximity to NYC for art-related activities.
5. University of Connecticut (UConn)
Why it's a good fit:
Comprehensive programs in mathematics and art.
Focus on interdisciplinary studies, allowing for a balanced curriculum.
Large campus with diverse student organizations.
6. University at Buffalo (SUNY Buffalo)
Why it's a good fit:
Affordable public university with excellent STEM and art programs.
Offers a wide variety of majors, minors, and electives.
Access to Buffalo’s vibrant art scene for inspiration.
7. University of Vermont (UVM)
Why it's a good fit:
Strong support for individualized academic paths, including double majors.
Smaller than some universities but still larger than most liberal arts colleges.
A beautiful campus environment to inspire creativity and focus on academics.
Tips for Your College Search
Look for universities with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning or customizable academic paths.
Ensure that the art department has resources like studios and exhibitions, even if art isn’t your main focus.
Check if the college allows students to double major easily or offers flexible minor options.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi Evelyn,
I went to the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth. The math major at this location was interesting because a couple of options were offered. I received a degree in Computer Oriented Mathematics which was a Bachelor of Science degree. Obviously the curriculum was designed around math courses with computer courses included. However, they also offered a Bachelor or Arts degree in Mathematics which would probably offer you an option to take art courses in addition to your math classes. Now granted this was a long time ago. I wish you good fortune in your journey and good luck with differential equations.
Michelle
I went to the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth. The math major at this location was interesting because a couple of options were offered. I received a degree in Computer Oriented Mathematics which was a Bachelor of Science degree. Obviously the curriculum was designed around math courses with computer courses included. However, they also offered a Bachelor or Arts degree in Mathematics which would probably offer you an option to take art courses in addition to your math classes. Now granted this was a long time ago. I wish you good fortune in your journey and good luck with differential equations.
Michelle
Updated
Atul’s Answer
Consider state school which is affordable and gives you many choices without incurring substantial student loan debt.
In addition score well in SAT/ACT, take AP courses and maintain high level overall Cumulative GPA.
This will enable you to get scholarships.
Keep in mind - each state school has multiple campuses where the main campus is reserved or given to those who have high academic achievements.
Your high score in Math will give you chance to land on the main campus.
In addition score well in SAT/ACT, take AP courses and maintain high level overall Cumulative GPA.
This will enable you to get scholarships.
Keep in mind - each state school has multiple campuses where the main campus is reserved or given to those who have high academic achievements.
Your high score in Math will give you chance to land on the main campus.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Evelyn ! It's good to see you here !
Planning for college is always one of the most exciting ventures. There's so much to explore. It's great that you have narrowed it down to a geographical area and size of the college that have reasonable tuition rates. If you attend a college that is out of state, there is always a higher rate for out of state tuition and once you live in that state for 12 months, you would be considered a resident according to college criteria.
The Northeast United States is pretty big, so you have a wide range of colleges to choose from. You would be focused on Massachusetts. Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island. To keep tuition costs down, you may want to consider attending a community college for an Associates Degree and then a state university for your Bachelors Degree. You can do a search for a list of state universities for each of the North East states and visit their websites to see the cost and academic programs offered. All accredited colleges are good and have credentialed and experienced professors.
I have some advice about your Major interest. Mostly all colleges have art and math, so you wouldn't have a hard time finding one on that basis. I advise not double majoring, especially if you want to do art as a hobby as you've mentioned. It will mean extra costs and maybe a longer stay in college more than the usual four years. It's not needed and employers never specify that candidates have two Bachelors Degrees that they did at the same time.
My suggestion to consider is to major in Math and minor in a computer science subject. You can take Art in college as an elective or to fulfill a general education requirement. As a non-art major, you can be involved in your campus' art department activities and galleries, too, as well as out in the community. Now, Math as a Major should be considered in connection with a career. Math is a skill more than a career, but used in some careers such as Teaching Math, Accounting, Banking, Finance, Taxation, Real Estate, Appraiser, Science, Insurance and many more careers. So consider that. It's good to focus your major and even your minor for specific career positions.
I've left some links to websites that list some colleges that are said to be affordable. Remember to explore community colleges, too. Read each college website for their Math Program to see which one you like best and also read what their tuition is, based on if you will be an out of state student or a resident of that state. Additionally you can read the size of the student body and acreage size of the campus to ascertain the size school you are looking for. This will be the way for you to choose which college(s) to apply to.
I hope this helps for a start and i wish you the very best !
TEN LOW COST COLLEGES IN MASSACHUSETTS https://blog.collegevine.com/cheapest-colleges-in-massachusetts
AFFORDABLE COLLEGES IN CONNECTICUT https://www.collegeaffordabilityguide.org/schools/connecticut/
MOST AFFORDABLE COLLEGES IN NEW JERSEY https://academicinfluence.com/rankings/by-state/new-jersey/most-affordable-colleges
LOW COST COLLEGES IN NEW YORK https://learn.org/articles/cheapest_colleges_new_york.html
AFFORDABLE COLLEGES IN MAINE https://www.collegeaffordabilityguide.org/schools/maine/
Planning for college is always one of the most exciting ventures. There's so much to explore. It's great that you have narrowed it down to a geographical area and size of the college that have reasonable tuition rates. If you attend a college that is out of state, there is always a higher rate for out of state tuition and once you live in that state for 12 months, you would be considered a resident according to college criteria.
The Northeast United States is pretty big, so you have a wide range of colleges to choose from. You would be focused on Massachusetts. Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island. To keep tuition costs down, you may want to consider attending a community college for an Associates Degree and then a state university for your Bachelors Degree. You can do a search for a list of state universities for each of the North East states and visit their websites to see the cost and academic programs offered. All accredited colleges are good and have credentialed and experienced professors.
I have some advice about your Major interest. Mostly all colleges have art and math, so you wouldn't have a hard time finding one on that basis. I advise not double majoring, especially if you want to do art as a hobby as you've mentioned. It will mean extra costs and maybe a longer stay in college more than the usual four years. It's not needed and employers never specify that candidates have two Bachelors Degrees that they did at the same time.
My suggestion to consider is to major in Math and minor in a computer science subject. You can take Art in college as an elective or to fulfill a general education requirement. As a non-art major, you can be involved in your campus' art department activities and galleries, too, as well as out in the community. Now, Math as a Major should be considered in connection with a career. Math is a skill more than a career, but used in some careers such as Teaching Math, Accounting, Banking, Finance, Taxation, Real Estate, Appraiser, Science, Insurance and many more careers. So consider that. It's good to focus your major and even your minor for specific career positions.
I've left some links to websites that list some colleges that are said to be affordable. Remember to explore community colleges, too. Read each college website for their Math Program to see which one you like best and also read what their tuition is, based on if you will be an out of state student or a resident of that state. Additionally you can read the size of the student body and acreage size of the campus to ascertain the size school you are looking for. This will be the way for you to choose which college(s) to apply to.
I hope this helps for a start and i wish you the very best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Max’s Answer
Hey there! I had this exact experience in college. I initially wanted to be pre-med but over the course of a few semesters I ended up double majoring in Math and Theatre. If you have the capacity in your schedule to do it and an interest in the arts I would HIGHLY recommend trying to pick up a double major in fine arts even if you don't think you'll use that professionally.
Arts train you you to think and communicate in different ways and teach you 'soft skills' that you just won't find in your Math classes. These skills will really help you distinguish yourself from your colleagues in a job search and serve to make you a more well-rounded and educated individual in the future.
I am currently in software consulting, and the problem solving skills I learned in my math program are important but understanding how to write well, ask questions to analyze a problem, and having empathy and communication skills are just as critical to the role of a technical professional.
To answer your question about specific schools, Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) made this very easy. Any liberal arts school (most state schools) should have cross-discipline requirements for graduation so you'll likely have to take classes for writing, history etc even if you major in Math only but picking up those minors and double majors will be something that happens a little more easily there.
Arts train you you to think and communicate in different ways and teach you 'soft skills' that you just won't find in your Math classes. These skills will really help you distinguish yourself from your colleagues in a job search and serve to make you a more well-rounded and educated individual in the future.
I am currently in software consulting, and the problem solving skills I learned in my math program are important but understanding how to write well, ask questions to analyze a problem, and having empathy and communication skills are just as critical to the role of a technical professional.
To answer your question about specific schools, Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) made this very easy. Any liberal arts school (most state schools) should have cross-discipline requirements for graduation so you'll likely have to take classes for writing, history etc even if you major in Math only but picking up those minors and double majors will be something that happens a little more easily there.