Applied Mathematics Major

Mathematics and Statistics Department

OVERVIEW

Mathematicians excel in ingenuity, analysis and problem-solving. They're at the forefront of helping to solve some of the world's most complex issues. Baldwin Wallace's applied mathematics major is a STEM program that builds outstanding mathematical, computational and communication skills.

BW's applied mathematics major will teach you to apply creativity - and the theory you learn - to addressing challenges in the sciences, business, economics and other fields.

Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Major  

Our applied math major includes rigorous coursework, practical learning experiences, and a required internship that puts you alongside industry leaders for real-world learning and projects.

You'll gain the analytical, computational and technical skills used by today's mathematicians and take courses in a focused area of study - chemistry, biology, economics, physics, epidemiology or related discipline - that corresponds to your career interest. 

Career Opportunities

The analytical ability and critical thinking skills of graduates with a bachelor of science in applied mathematics are in demand in many fields and settings. Proficiency of mathematics can be beneficial to careers in science (such as solving global challenges involving energy sources, climate change and public health) as well as operations research, business and technology. Government and private laboratories employ mathematicians to assist with the development of new technology. Career paths include:

Operations Research
Data Science
Actuarial Science
Statistics
Operations Analyst

Why You Should Major in Applied Mathematics

Want to make an impact in world by solving complex problems that affect millions of people? Then choose a career in applied mathematics. According to The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, mathematical and computational skills are at the center of solving some of the biggest global challenges.

State-of-the-Art STEM Center

BW's Knowlton Center provides students with innovative learning experiences in engineering, mathematics, computer science and physics that will enable them to explore cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, mathematical modeling and simulation, robotics and optics while connecting with industry leaders.

Image of Knowlton Center

Employment of math occupations is projected to grow 28 percent from 2016 to 2026.

Mathematician is Top Profession

The job outlook for mathematicians and statisticians is projected to increase by 33 percent from 2019-29, according to U.S. Department of Labor.

Pure Math vs. Applied Math

Practical application is at the core of applied mathematics. It offers a concrete methodology for which modeling, predicting and explaining things in the real world can be done in an orderly manner. Pure math focuses on mathematical theory and is more broad-based. While there is significant overlap and both offer career-preparative benefits, the selection of one discipline over the other relates to an individual's career goals.

CURRICULUM

Courses in the applied mathematics major provide a broad and comprehensive foundation in mathematics. The curriculum also includes a focused study in an area of interest and computer science courses that build computational skills in programming in one or more languages.

A senior project and required internship offer outstanding opportunities to build real-world skills. You'll develop a portfolio showcasing projects that demonstrate both your technical and soft skill competencies. This will be an invaluable resource when applying for graduate school and/or employment.

What You'll Learn

Some of the many skills you'll gain as an applied math major are an ability to:

Demonstrate mastery of the following: relevant technical skills in numerical methods, statistics, understanding of the deductive structure of mathematics, coding in relevant programming languages, data visualization and developing models in a related area of interest.
Present mathematical models and technical analysis both orally and in writing.
Tailor oral and written presentations to technical and non-technical audiences.
Work in interdisciplinary environments, including the natural sciences (chemistry, biology, physics, neuroscience, etc.), economics, computer science, engineering, business and other fields.
Work effectively as part of a team.

Related Fields of Study

Applied mathematics is an outstanding companion field of study. It supports and enhances the disciplines of science, business, computer science, economics and health sciences. Students interested in related programs of study may consider:

Pure mathematics major
Multi-disciplinary statistics minor, which gives students valuable background in a rapidly growing field

Course Descriptions

Course descriptions, requirements for the major and additional information can be found in the University Catalog.

STUDENT EXPERIENCES

Small class sizes, individual attention and faculty mentoring are at the core of BW's applied mathematics major. You'll benefit from experiential learning initiatives like research, independent study, internships and co-curricular activities. Opportunities include:

Student Clubs & Organizations

Math Club

The Math Club's purpose is to stimulate interest in mathematics, serve the community and foster a community among students interested in mathematics.

Kappa Mu Epsilon

KME is a nationally-recognized mathematics honorary society. Students are invited to join based on their academic achievements.

Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program

The BW Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program is open to Ohio residents who are entering Baldwin Wallace in the fall as a first-year student or transfer student and are interested in applied mathematics. Students are eligible to apply to the program which also offers the Choose Ohio First scholarship, awarding annual, renewable scholarships of up to $5,000.