Applied Mathematics

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics at the University of Colorado Denver is designed to prepare students for diverse career opportunities in science, engineering, technology, finance, data analysis, and many other fields that require strong mathematical skills. This program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines theoretical mathematical principles with practical applications, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to tackle complex real-world problems. Students will engage with a broad range of topics, including calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, numerical analysis, probability, and statistics, alongside specialized courses such as mathematical modeling, computational methods, and data analysis.

The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and quantitative reasoning abilities through rigorous coursework, hands-on projects, and research opportunities. It aims to foster a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while enabling students to apply these concepts using modern computational tools and software. Through internships, collaborative projects, and engagement with industries, students gain valuable practical experience and professional skills that prepare them for employment in various sectors, including software development, finance, engineering, information technology, and government agencies.

graduates of the Applied Mathematics program at CU Denver are encouraged to pursue advanced studies in graduate or professional schools or to enter the workforce directly. The program promotes a strong foundation in mathematical theory, complemented by training in communication and teamwork skills. Faculty members are actively involved in research, ensuring students have access to current developments and opportunities for original research. Overall, this program combines academic rigor with real-world relevance, providing students with the essential tools to succeed in a data-driven and technologically advanced environment.

The core requirements for an MS in Applied Mathematics are:

• Thirty semester hours, of which at least 24 hours must be in mathematics courses numbered 5000 level or above. These courses must include Math 5718 (Applied Linear Algebra) and either Math 5070 (Applied Analysis) or Math 6131 (Real Analysis)
• Students must complete either the requirements for the MS degree without concentration area or specific coursework requirements in one of the following areas :

1. Applied Statistics
2. Applied Probability
3. Discrete Mathematics
4. Mathematics of Engineering and Science
5. Numerical Analysis
6. Operations Research

• At most six hours may be in courses outside the Department of Mathematical & Statistical Sciences at the 4000 level or above, if prior approval is given by the student's advisor and by the Graduate Committee. However, courses taken at other universities must be at the 5000 level or above, by graduate school rules.
• All students must pass a final oral exam and complete a written project.
• By graduate school rules, master's degree students have five years from the date of admission to complete all degree requirements.
• Students who choose the thesis option should register for MATH 5950 (Master's Thesis) and may count 4-6 hours of this coursework toward the required 30 hours.

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate or master's degree (not necessarily in mathematics or statistics) from an accredited college or university (or demonstrate completion of work equivalent to the baccalaureate or master's degree given at UC Denver) with at least a 3.0 grade point average (GPA). Applicants to the doctoral program with a GPA in mathematics below 3.2 are unlikely to be accepted without strong supporting evidence. All applicants must take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Students must also have 30 semester hours of mathematics and/or statistics, at least 24 of which are upper division courses with a grade of B- or better. These courses must include:

• two semesters of advanced calculus or real analysis (or equivalent)
• one semester of linear algebra
• one semester of one of the following:
  • abstract algebra
  • differential equations
  • discrete mathematics
  • probability

Subject to approval by the Graduate Committee, students with prerequisite deficiencies (such as advanced calculus) may be admitted with the understanding that those deficiencies must be removed after admission. In such cases, credits earned for deficiency coursework cannot be applied to a graduate degree. Students who do not have the minimum GPA may be admitted to the MS program provisionally. 

CU Denver students receive over $30 million in scholarships and grant packages each year. On average, a full-time undergrad determined to have a financial need is awarded just under $7,000 (part-time undergrads received $4,000).

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics at the University of Colorado Denver offers students a comprehensive education that prepares them for a wide range of careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The program emphasizes the development of strong analytical and problem-solving skills through coursework that integrates theoretical mathematics with practical applications. Students will explore various topics such as numerical analysis, differential equations, mathematical modeling, and computational methods, which are essential tools for addressing real-world problems in industries like engineering, finance, data science, and information technology.

The curriculum includes foundational courses in calculus, linear algebra, and discrete mathematics, alongside specialized courses in applied mathematics areas. Practical skills are further enhanced through laboratory work, computer programming, and project-based learning, often collaborating with local industries and research centers. The program also offers flexibility for students to tailor their studies to specific interests with electives in areas such as operations research, statistics, and scientific computing.

In addition to classroom learning, students are encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and cooperative education programs, gaining valuable industry experience. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers who are dedicated to mentoring students and providing opportunities for engaging with current developments in applied mathematics. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in roles that require quantitative analysis, modeling, simulation, and data interpretation.

The University of Colorado Denver provides a supportive academic environment with modern facilities, comprehensive student services, and a strong network of alumni and industry connections. The Applied Mathematics program aims to produce graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and prepared to tackle complex problems in their future careers, contributing to technological advancements and economic development regionally and globally.