Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences Questions
Q: What is Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences?
A: The bachelor of science degree in Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences is a challenging and exciting curriculum that investigates and integrates complex areas of the physical, life and social sciences while preparing a new generation of students in mathematics. A primary objective of this program is for students to develop critical thinking skills and purposeful competencies in mathematics, as well as an appreciation for the contributions of mathematics to the fields of science, engineering, business, government and economics.
Students learn how to use theories and techniques, such as mathematical modeling and computational methods, to resolve practical real-world problems. The coursework is directed towards an understanding of mathematical theory and its relation to other fields of study. Emphasis is placed on precision of definition; reasoning to accurate conclusions; and analyzing and developing solutions to problems using mathematical principles. Students acquire a life-long learning philosophy that will prepare them to become first-rate scientists and important agents of change in the shrinking global village.
Q: What can I do with a degree in Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences?
A: The Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences bachelor of science degree provides students entering the environmental, life, health, mathematical and social science fields the quantitative, scientific and analytical skills that are critical but still lacking for professionals working in these areas.
Career opportunities are varied and diverse. Graduates from the program may work in the public or private sectors. Those who are oriented towards the private and government sectors may become consultants in federal and state organizations or agencies, actuaries for banks or insurance companies, engineers, computer analysts or operations researchers. Many careers require a certain authority of quantitative methods, and graduates qualified in mathematics are more marketable. Statisticians and computer programmers are further examples of professions that require broad mathematical skills.
Q: What are the major requirements for the B.S. in Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences?
A: Please go to our curriculum page to download a check sheet. A brief breakdown of the major requirements is provided below.
Major Requirements
Students must complete 39 credit hours and take a variety of courses within applied mathematics, the life sciences, the social sciences and/or statistics and probability. Students are also required to take an introductory class, a modeling class and a capstone seminar. In addition, students must take the following sequence of classes.Math and Science Sequence
Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences students must also complete the following sequence of classes.CSE 100 Principles of Programming with C++ (3) CS OR CSE 110 Principles of Programming with Java (3) CS
BIO 181 General Biology I (4) SQ (formerly BIO 188)
BIO 182 General Biology II (4) SQ (formerly BIO 187)MAT 270 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (4) MA
MAT 271 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (4) MA
MAT 272 Calculus with Analytic Geometry III (4) MA
MAT 274 Elementary Differential Equations (3) MA
MAT 275 Modern Differential Equations (3) MA
MAT 342 Linear Algebra (3) OR MAT 343 Applied Linear Algebra (3)
Q: What are the college requirements for bachelor of science degrees?
A: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences requires that all B.S. students take MAT 119 or higher and two approved Science and Society courses.
Q: Is this major good for transfer students?
A: This depends on how many math and science classes a student has taken at another institution. Since the requirements are rather prescribed (see above), students should at least have completed, or be close to completing, the math and science sequence if they wish to finish in a timely manner.
Q: What is the capstone seminar?
A: The capstone course, AML 406, is designed for students to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned throughout the degree to a final research project in consultation with an instructor.
Q: When do I take the capstone seminar?
A: The capstone seminar is taken the last semester that a student is finishing his/her major requirements, which is usually the final semester of undergraduate studies. For instructions on how to enroll in the course, please check the schedule of classes.
Q: How do I get involved in research?
A: There are many different research projects in which undergraduate students may participate. Please take a look at our research involvement page to learn more. Also, it is a good rule of thumb for students to ask professors directly if they know of any research opportunities in which they can be involved.
Q: Is there a minor in Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences?
A: No, currently there is no minor in Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences.
