Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science

We intentionally integrate Math, Statistics, & Computer Science, connecting within and beyond fields

Our liberal arts approach to Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science (MSCS) means you don’t have to give up other aspects of yourself to succeed. Our faculty make connections with a broad range of fields across the liberal arts, so our courses connect different disciplinary perspectives. MSCS students can major in mathematics, applied math and statistics, or computer science. We also offer a minor in data science. Our forward-looking, innovative curriculum is project-based, so you’ll collaborate on real, fun, projects on small teams, gaining critical-thinking and problem-solving skills that apply to any career.

All are welcome in MSCS

We value diversity and inclusion. We’re proud that 43 percent of our recent graduating majors identified as women and 7 percent as non-binary. Although there’s still room for improvement, we’re committed to a climate of mutual respect, free of discrimination, that is equitable, inclusive, and welcoming.

No matter your background, there’s a place for you here. Whether you are just starting your journey in MSCS or have prior experience, check out our advice about the Math, Applied Math and Statistics, or Computer Science majors to get started.

MSCS Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science (MSCS) department actively works towards creating an inclusive and respectful environment for everyone, across race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexuality, gender identity, caregiver or parental status, marital status, and political affiliation as well as gender expression, health conditions, socioeconomic status or background, neurodiversity, immigrant status, and physical appearance. Macalester College’s values unite us, and we celebrate our unique perspectives and life experiences.

We acknowledge that creating a truly supportive and inclusive learning and work environment for all MSCS students, faculty, and staff is a continuous task that requires collaboration and commitment from each member of our community, students, staff, and faculty alike. Challenging cultural norms and dismantling structural oppression is hard and necessary. We are all learners and can self-educate and reflect on our role and responsibility in this work, in and out of the classroom. We look to students to partner with faculty and staff in championing these inclusion and equity efforts.

Why study MSCS at Macalester?

• All majors take foundational courses in multiple disciplines within MSCS
• Students have opportunities to work as peer mentors in the classroom, and take part in student/faculty summer research projects like robotics, computing and agriculture, and media data science
• Our department offers strong gender diversity among our students and faculty members
• Our most experienced professors often lead our introductory classes

MSCS in the cities

Life after Macalester

Public health; finance, management, and economic consulting; software; education; insurance; banking; and any field you can imagine when you put your mind—and your MSCS training—to it.

Join our community

Our friendly department welcomes you, and offers a great mix of fun and scholarly events:

Bounce House? We’ve got it. Our annual fall Block Party features games, the aforementioned Bounce House, food, and fun.

At our annual MSCS and Society Lecture, you’ll hear from experts in our fields and enhance your classroom learning.

We also host weekly coffee get-togethers, challenging competitions, and events like DataFest (Mac’s got one of the biggest gatherings in the nation).