Computational and Applied Mathematics

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Foreign:$ 71.6 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jan 1, 2026
10 place StudyQA ranking:12707 Duration:4 years

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The Master of Science in Computational and Applied Mathematics at The University of Chicago offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with advanced mathematical skills and computational techniques essential for tackling complex problems across various scientific and engineering disciplines. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes the development of strong analytical and problem-solving abilities through coursework that integrates theoretical mathematics, numerical analysis, scientific computing, and real-world applications. Students will gain proficiency in mathematical modeling, algorithm development, and data analysis, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, or government research institutions. The program features close collaboration with leading faculty members engaged in pioneering research, providing students with opportunities to participate in innovative projects and gain practical experience. Through a combination of coursework, research, and seminars, students are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of mathematical methods and their applications to areas such as physics, biology, economics, and computer science. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests while acquiring a strong foundational knowledge. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to solve complex problems using computational mathematics techniques, contribute to scientific discovery, and advance technological innovation. The University of Chicago’s location and its collaborative academic environment foster interdisciplinary learning and research, preparing students to become leaders in computational science and applied mathematics. Whether pursuing a career in research, industry, or further academic study, students will leave with a versatile skill set and a solid foundation in both mathematical theory and computational practice.

GENERAL EDUCATION  
One of the following sequences: 200

CHEM 12100-12200

Honors General Chemistry I-II (or higher)  

OR

 

PHYS 13100-13200

Mechanics; Electricity and Magnetism (or higher) *  
One of the following sequences: 200

MATH 13100-13200

Elementary Functions and Calculus I-II §+  
OR  

MATH 15100-15200

Calculus I-II §+  
OR  

MATH 16100-16200

Honors Calculus I-II +  
Total Units 400
MAJOR  
One of the following: + 100

MATH 16300

Honors Calculus III  

MATH 15910

Introduction to Proofs in Analysis  
One of the following sequences: 300

MATH 20300-20400-20500

Analysis in Rn I-II-III  

MATH 20700-20800-20900

Honors Analysis in Rn I-II-III  
One of the following: 100

STAT 24300

Numerical Linear Algebra  

or MATH 20250

Abstract Linear Algebra
One of the following sequences: 200

CMSC 12100-12200

Computer Science with Applications I-II  

CMSC 15100-15200

Introduction to Computer Science I-II  

CMSC 16100-16200

Honors Introduction to Computer Science I-II  
CMSC 27100 Discrete Mathematics ** 100
CMSC 27200 Theory of Algorithms 100
MATH 27300 Basic Theory of Ordinary Differential Equations 100
One of the following: 100

MATH 21100

Basic Numerical Analysis  

MATH 21200

Advanced Numerical Analysis  
STAT 24400-24500 Statistical Theory and Methods I-II 200
One of the following: *** 100

STAT 25100

Introduction to Mathematical Probability  

STAT 25150

Introduction to Mathematical Probability-A  

MATH 23500

Markov Chains, Martingales, and Brownian Motion  
STAT 28000 Optimization 100
Three approved electives (see Elective Courses below) 300
Total Units 1800
*

Students with AP credit for PHYS 12100-12200 may substitute quantitative courses in other scientific departments with permission of the director of undergraduate studies; whether these other courses count as electives within the major or as general electives will be determined by the director of undergraduate studies.

+

Credit may be granted by examination.

§

Students who take MATH 13100-13200 or MATH 15100-15200 must also take the third quarter of the sequence as a prerequisite for MATH 15910; however, neither MATH 13300 nor MATH 15300 will be counted toward the major.

**

Students may substitute a higher-level Computer Science course in discrete mathematics or algorithms with approval of the director of undergraduate studies.

***

Students who take STAT 25100 or STAT 25150 may take MATH 23500 as one of their electives with approval of the director of undergraduate studies. STAT 31200 may be substituted for MATH 23500.

Elective Courses

Students will propose a coherent set of three courses to complete the major program. These will be chosen to complete a specialization. Possibilities include: preparation for PhD programs in applied mathematics, scientific computing, machine learning, operations research, economics and finance, physical sciences, or biological sciences. These are intended to be mathematical and computational courses that complement the program and at least at the mathematical level of the advanced classes in the required courses. The program must be approved by the undergraduate adviser, who will also serve as a resource for suggested mentors and programs in different areas.

  • Application
  • Personal Statement
  • Application Fee or Automatic Fee Waiver
  • Secondary School Report and Transcript
  • Two Teacher Evaluations
  • Standardized Test Scores. We understand that access to the SAT and ACT is not available in all countries. While we hope that you will make your best effort to take one of these tests if you can, we will give full consideration to the applications without an ACT or SAT score from students in these countries.
  • Midyear Report (first-year applicants only)
  • English Language Proficiency Test Scores (international applicants only). The University of Chicago only admits students who have demonstrated a superior level of English language competence: we strongly recommend a score of 100 or higher on the Internet-Based TOEFL or 600 or higher on the Paper-Based TOEFL. Minimum required scores on the IELTS (students must take the Academic test, not the General Training test) are an overall score of 7, with subscores of 7 each. The minimum acceptable score on the PTE is 70.
  • College Official's Report and Transcript (transfer students only)
  • Financial Aid Application
  • Interview

Scholarships

First-year international applicants are eligible for both need-based and merit-based aid.

The University of Chicago offers a comprehensive program in Computational and Applied Mathematics that equips students with a strong foundation in mathematical modeling, computational methods, and analytical skills essential for solving real-world problems across various scientific and engineering disciplines. This program is designed to provide a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical mathematics with practical computational techniques, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to research, industry, and academia.

Students in the Computational and Applied Mathematics program engage with a broad spectrum of topics, including numerical analysis, differential equations, optimization, stochastic processes, data analysis, and scientific computing. The coursework emphasizes mathematical rigor, algorithmic efficiency, and the application of mathematical models to complex systems in physics, biology, finance, and other fields. By integrating coursework, research projects, and possibly internships, the program aims to develop not only technical expertise but also problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning.

The curriculum typically includes core courses in advanced calculus, linear algebra, probability, and computation, along with specialized classes in numerical methods, mathematical modeling, machine learning, and data science. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research or participate in collaborative projects that challenge them to apply their learning to practical and theoretical problems.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for various career paths including data analysis, quantitative research, scientific computing, software development, and academic research. Many alumni also pursue further studies by enrolling in Ph.D. programs in mathematics, computational sciences, or related fields.

The University of Chicago is renowned for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, critical thinking, and fostering a vibrant academic community. The program benefits from dedicated faculty members who are leading experts in their fields, state-of-the-art research facilities, and numerous opportunities for collaborative work with other departments and research institutes within the university.

Overall, the Computational and Applied Mathematics program at the University of Chicago offers a robust education designed to prepare students for careers that require advanced mathematical and computational skills, fostering innovation and contributing to the advancement of science and technology.

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