*updated January 7, 2025
Do You Need Calculus for a Business Degree?
As you consider going back to school, you may find yourself asking: Do I need calculus for a business degree? What level of math will an MBA require? It’s a common concern, especially if math isn’t your favorite subject. But don’t let the fear of numbers hold you back from pursuing a degree that could ultimately lead you to the career of your dreams.
In this updated guide, we’ll take you through what math courses to expect for both an undergraduate business degree and an MBA. We’ll also explore business majors with fewer math requirements and provide practical tips on choosing the right path based on your career goals and interests.
Math Requirements for an Undergraduate Business Degree
The math courses you’ll need to take for an undergraduate business degree will depend largely on the program. At universities like Southern Nazarene University (SNU), students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration are required to take accounting, economics, and finance courses—subjects that involve mathematical concepts like budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis. These courses are designed with real-world applications in mind, so you won’t just be memorizing formulas—you’ll be learning skills that will directly apply to business scenarios, whether you're managing a company, leading a team, or launching your own venture.
One of our students, Samantha, shared her experience: “I was really nervous about the math classes when I first started, especially since it had been a while since I had done anything beyond basic math. But the courses were structured in a way that made the concepts easier to grasp, and the professors were incredibly supportive. I never felt like I was on my own.”
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Here’s an updated list of the core courses you’ll take for a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at SNU:
- Business Communication in a Global Environment
- Personal & Professional Development
- Accounting
- Economics for Managers
- Human Resource Management & Workforce Diversity
- Managerial Accounting
- Biblical Perspectives on Western Culture
- Principles of Management Science
- Marketing for Managers
- Finance for Managers
- Business Law
- International Business and Ethics
- Business Policy
You’ll notice that while courses like Accounting and Economics for Managers involve math, other courses like Business Law and Marketing for Managers require less. And because the courses are spread out, you'll have time to adjust to the more challenging ones. Plus, SNU offers tutoring and mentoring to ensure that you feel supported throughout your academic journey.
Related Article: How a Bachelor's Degree Boosts Earning Potential
Math in an MBA Program
When it comes to pursuing an MBA, you’ll need to be ready for more complex decision-making and financial analysis. However, while the MBA program does involve more math-related content, such as accounting and finance, many MBA programs (including SNU's) do not require advanced math like calculus or statistics. This makes it easier for students who may not be math enthusiasts but still want to advance in their careers.
Samantha, now in the final stages of her MBA, shared: “When I moved on to my MBA, I was a little anxious about the math again. However, the classes were more about understanding the financial implications of decisions rather than getting bogged down in complex equations. I actually ended up enjoying it because I could apply the math directly to real business scenarios.”
That said, some MBA programs at other universities may still require courses like calculus or advanced statistics. If math is something you’re concerned about, it’s always best to review the program’s course catalog and ensure that the structure aligns with your learning preferences and career goals.
At SNU, here are some of the core courses in the MBA program:
- Organizational Communication
- Management of Organizational Behavior
- The Accounting and Finance Environment
- Marketing Management
- The Economic Environment
- Human Resource Management and Administration
- Legal Environment of Management
- Ethics in Management
- Management Accounting
- Financial Management
- Managerial Economics
- Strategic Management
By the time you reach more math-intensive courses like Managerial Economics and Financial Management, you will likely have developed the time management and study habits necessary to handle these subjects with confidence.
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Business Majors with Less Math
If you find yourself drawn to business but prefer to avoid courses with heavy math components, you can still pursue a degree that aligns with your passion and career goals. Several business majors focus more on leadership, communication, and management skills, all of which require fewer math courses.
One of our current students, Jordan, opted for a major in Organizational Leadership after struggling with math in earlier courses: “I’ve always been more of a people person, and I wanted a degree that would let me manage teams and help organizations grow. The courses in leadership and ethics were a perfect fit for me. While I still had to take a few finance-related courses, I didn’t feel overwhelmed, and I got the support I needed from professors.”
Here are a few business majors with less emphasis on math:
- Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership
- Master of Science in Management
- Master of Organizational Leadership
These programs emphasize soft skills like leadership, communication, and strategic thinking—essential for roles in management or organizational development. While there may still be some math involved, these programs tend to focus more on qualitative analysis and interpersonal skills.
Related Article: Financial Benefits of an MBA and M.S. in Management
Don’t let math stop you from pursuing your passion. Whether you’re looking for a business degree that involves more math or one with less, there are programs available that can help you thrive. With determination, the right resources, and a little support, you can tackle any subject—even the ones that initially seem daunting.
Choosing the Right Business Major for You
If you’re wondering whether you should major in business despite not being great at math, the answer depends on your career aspirations and your willingness to engage with subjects that may challenge you. If you’re not excited about numbers but still want to pursue a business career, look into programs with fewer math requirements or institutions that offer a high level of academic support.
Additionally, if you have a learning difference like dyscalculia (difficulty with numbers), many colleges offer accommodations such as extra time on exams and alternative learning methods. Be sure to inquire with the admissions or disability services office to learn what support is available.
Before making a decision, ask yourself:
- What careers do graduates of this degree typically pursue?
- How competitive is the job market for this field?
- Do the courses align with my interests and long-term goals?
- Am I more interested in managing people, processes, or financial systems?
- Do I want to focus on soft skills like leadership, or would I prefer to dive into data and numbers?
- Can I talk to current students or alumni to get a better sense of their experience?
Speaking with an academic advisor can also help guide your decision. At SNU, our advisors work with you to understand your goals and tailor a degree program that fits your needs.
Returning to college as an adult can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. At SNU, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need tutoring, mentorship, or just someone to talk to about your academic journey, we’ve got your back.
Contact us today to explore which business major is the best fit for your future career!
