The aim of this Master’s degree program is to provide a balanced foundational education in mathematical and statistical analysis, an understanding of appropriate applications of the theory, and some depth in an area of specialization. The program, which requires a thesis, usually takes 18 months to complete and is designed for students who have completed an undergraduate major in mathematics or statistics. However, students from other disciplines who have a strong record in mathematics will usually find their preparation to be adequate. For those with weaker mathematics backgrounds, completing the program will normally take longer than 18 months.

The core courses common to all Applied Mathematics master of science degree options are STAT 601 (Theory of Probability), STAT 602 (Mathematical Statistics), MATH 601 (Complex Analysis), and either MATH 600 (Mathematical Analysis) or MATH 602 (Modern Applied Mathematics I). The student will specialize in analysis, statistics, or numerical analysis by taking three courses within the specialty area.

The department believes that the applied nature of the program is enhanced by interaction with at least one other department in the Graduate School of Engineering and Management. Therefore, an out-of-department sequence (minimum of eight hours) taken from another department is required, and serves to help the future applied mathematician gain an appreciation for communicating with other scientists and engineers. In addition, the thesis project is invariably linked to an Air Force or Defense Department organization, further enhancing the student’s appreciation for and experience in working with the non-mathematician.