The phrase “math degree” tends to cause one of three reactions: admiration, confusion or a full-body shudder. For many, it conjures an image of a lone student buried in equations, pale from fluorescent lighting and caffeine dependence. (Which, to be fair, is only partly exaggerated. Coffee is basically a course requirement.)
So: how hard is a math degree—really? Is it the academic equivalent of climbing Everest in flip-flops? Or are the rumors mostly drama from people who never met a theorem they didn’t fear?
We asked two first-year students at IE University’s Bachelor in Applied Mathematics to get the inside scoop—and their answers might just surprise you.
Wait, why is math so hard anyway?
We’ll admit it. Math has a reputation problem.
Leire Barba, a first-year double degree student in applied math and economics, knows that fear well. “I was scared it would be too hard,” she says. “But I wanted to try it anyway.”
Her friends and family were encouraging—though her high school experience had her bracing for endless computations. But university math isn’t just about crunching numbers. Just ask Leire:
“The most important part is the understanding behind it. Once you get it, it’s one of the most satisfying feelings ever.”
Patricia Nistor, another first-year Bachelor in Applied Mathematics student, had a similar epiphany. Torn between economics and engineering, she realized math connected everything she loved. “The tangency was math,” she says. “It opens all the doors I would’ve otherwise had to choose between.”
Spoiler alert: both students report back from the other side of semester one with their sanity intact.
When it gets hard—and why that’s OK
Here’s the thing about math: it’s not easy. But that might be the point.
“Math problems don’t make me want to give up,” Patricia says. “They motivate me.” Her advice to her past self? “You are worthy of pursuing this degree.” Confidence, it turns out, is just as important as calculus.
Leire adds that effort really does pay off but patience is also key. “There are going to be many things you don’t understand at the start,” she says. “It’s likely everyone else feels the same way.” When she hit roadblocks, she asked for help from peers or professors until things clicked. “That ‘click’ is incredibly satisfying.”
Both students also pointed out something unexpected: university-level math is actually… fun. “It’s flexible, engaging, practical,” says Patricia. “Not that boring and monotone subject most people are scared of.”
What can you do with a math degree?
You mean besides defeat your enemies with logic?
Glad you asked. Here are just a few doors that open:
- Data scientist – Use statistical models to predict trends, behaviors or the outcome of your next Spotify algorithm.
- Financial analyst – Crunch numbers, assess risk and maybe even make peace with Excel.
- AI & machine learning engineer – Teach computers how to think using math. Basically, wizardry.
- Operations Research Analyst – Solve complex business problems using advanced mathematical modeling.
- Economist – Model markets, interpret data and possibly explain inflation at family dinners.
- Quantitative Researcher – Work in finance, biotech or tech building high-level models to predict future behavior.
It’s a flexible, future-proof degree that powers nearly every industry—especially in an increasingly data-driven world.
So… is a math degree really that hard?
Here’s the honest answer: yes. But maybe that’s not the right question.
A better one might be: Is a math degree worth it?
If you ask Patricia, the reward is in those quiet “aha” moments. “Concepts connect in wonderful ways, when you least expect it,” she says. For Leire, it’s discovering that theory—something she didn’t think she’d love—has become her favorite part.
Both agree: discipline matters more than talent. Curiosity matters more than perfection. And support—whether from peers, faculty or an espresso machine—is essential.
One last thing: you don’t have to do it alone
At IE University, the bachelor in applied mathematics program isn’t just about equations and problem sets. Students get access to world-class professors, modern learning tech and a supportive international community. Whether you’re exploring AI, game theory or data visualization, you’re not left staring at a whiteboard wondering what went wrong. You’re guided, challenged and equipped with the tools that matter.
And yes, there’s coffee.
So: how hard is a math degree? Hard enough to make you proud. And, maybe, just human enough to make you fall in love with it.
Or at least learn to love the chaos of your desk during finals week. Check out our Bachelor in Applied Mathematics right here.