Systems Science and Mathematics

The Bachelor of Science in Systems Science and Mathematics at Washington University in St. Louis offers a rigorous interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for diverse careers in science, technology, engineering, and applied research. This program integrates core principles from mathematics, computer science, systems theory, and analytics to develop students' abilities to model, analyze, and optimize complex systems across various domains. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of mathematical modeling, computational methods, and systems thinking, enabling them to approach real-world challenges with innovative, data-driven solutions.

The curriculum combines foundational courses in calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, and probability with advanced topics such as operations research, systems engineering, data analysis, and programming. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to engage in hands-on projects, research opportunities, and collaborative learning environments that foster analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, effective communication, and teamwork in professional settings.

Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in areas including data science, systems analysis, operations research, software development, and technical consulting. Additionally, the program serves as an excellent foundation for further studies in graduate or professional schools, including engineering, business, law, or advanced research in systems science and applied mathematics. With a curriculum designed to nurture both theoretical understanding and practical application, the Bachelor of Science in Systems Science and Mathematics prepares students to become innovative leaders capable of addressing complex challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.

1. The MS degree requires 30 units, which may include optionally 6 units for thesis or independent study.

2. Required courses (15 units) for the MS degree include: ESE 551, ESE 553, ESE 520, , ESE 415 and one chosen from the following courses: ESE 524, ESE 544, ESE 545 or ESE 557. ESE 516 may be substituted for ESE 415.

3. The remaining courses in the program may be selected from senior- or graduate-level courses in Electrical and Systems Engineering or elsewhere in the University. Courses outside of Electrical and Systems Engineering must be in technical subjects relevant to systems science and mathematics and require the department's approval.

4. Students must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.2 out of a possible 4.0 over all courses applied toward the degree. (effective fall 2016).

5. ESE 590 Electrical & Systems Engineering Graduate Seminar must be taken each semester. This satisfactory/unsatisfactory course is required for the M.Sc., D.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical and Systems Engineering. A passing grade is required for each semester of enrollment and is received by attendance at regularly scheduled ESE seminars. M.Sc. students must attend at least 3 seminars per semester. D.Sc. and Ph.D. students must attend at least 5 seminars per semester. Part-time students are exempt except during their year of residency. Any student under continuing status is also exempt. Seminars missed in a given semester may be made up during the subsequent semester.

6. The degree program must be consistent with the residency and other applicable requirements of Washington University and the School of Engineering & Applied Science.

Either a thesis option or a course option may be selected. The special requirements for these options are as follows:

Course Option

This option is intended for those employed in local industry who wish to pursue a graduate degree on a part-time basis, or for full-time students who do not seek careers in research. Under the course option, students may not take ESE 599, Master's Research, and with faculty permission may take up to 3 units of ESE 500, Independent Study.

Thesis Option

This option is intended for those pursuing full-time study and engaged in research projects. Candidates for this degree must complete a minimum of 24 credit hours of course instruction and six (6) credit hours of thesis research (ESE 599). These six (6) credit hours of thesis research can be counted as part of the 15 graduate-level electrical engineering credit hours specified above. The student must write a master's thesis and defend it in an oral examination.
ELP English Placement Exams: These exams are taken by new international graduate students upon arrival. Students may be placed into E60 510A or E60 510B, courses customized to the needs of Engineering students and offered only in the spring, or they may be placed into one or more of the ELP’s University College courses. Supported students do not pay tuition for enrollment in Engineering courses, but may be responsible for the cost of enrollment in a University College course. The English classes, E60 510A and E60 510B are free and are offered in the Spring. The English classes offered by U-College during the Fall are not free and the student has to pay for them.

Requirements

• Application Fee ($75), credit card or check by mail
• Unofficial copies of undergraduate and/or graduate transcripts
• Three Letters of Recommendation

• • Input recommendation providers' names and email addresses. Recommendation providers are automatically sent an email requesting a recommendation.
  • Paper and email recommendations will not be accepted.
  • The recommendations must be posted by the published deadline for final application submission.
• Statement of Purpose and Resume/CV
  • The Statement of Purpose should be a brief document explaining your goals and ambitions. (3 page maximum)
  • Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae is to be uploaded in the section immediately following the Statement of Purpose.
• GRE Scores

  • GRE scores are required for all PhD and full-time Master’s applicants with the exception of applicants to the M. Eng. in Biomedical Innovation degree program.

  • GRE scores are not required for applicants to part-time Master’s or the Bachelor’s/Master’s programs.

  • If submitting scores, applicants must report their official scores via ETS at the time of application submission for evaluation purposes. The WashU School Code is 6929.

• TOEFL or IELTS Scores
  • Required for all international applicants.

  • Applicants must report their official scores via ETS at the time of application submission for evaluation purposes. The WashU School Code is 6929. 
    Note: This requirement may be waived if the applicant has a minimum of three years of documented study at an English-speaking institution, in a country where English is the primary language of daily living. Based on the evaluation of your application package, we retain the right to require English testing upon arrival and you may be required to take additional English classes. If you are recommended to take English classes, the cost of the courses will be your responsibility.

Scholarships

• Chancellor's Graduate Fellowship Program
• Need-based financial aid assistance
• Merit-based scholarships

The Bachelor of Science in Systems Science and Mathematics at Washington University in St. Louis offers students an interdisciplinary education that combines principles from systems analysis, mathematical modeling, and computational theory. The program is designed to develop students' skills in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and quantitative reasoning, preparing them for careers in research, industry, or further academic study. Students take a comprehensive curriculum that includes core courses in mathematics, computer science, and systems engineering, along with electives tailored to specific interests such as operations research, data analysis, or systems design. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, projects, and collaborations with faculty members engaged in cutting-edge research. Graduates are equipped with a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of systems science, enabling them to approach complex problems in various disciplines. The university supports a collaborative learning environment, offering access to modern facilities and resources to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Additionally, the program prepares students for graduate studies or professional careers by fostering skills in technical communication, teamwork, and ethical considerations in technological development. Students may have opportunities to participate in internships, research assistantships, or joint projects with industry partners, gaining practical experience aligned with their career goals. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating knowledge from engineering, computer science, and social sciences to address real-world challenges. With a strong emphasis on quantitative skills and systems thinking, the program aims to produce graduates who can analyze, design, and improve complex systems across various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and information technology. The curriculum is periodically reviewed and updated to reflect recent advancements in the field, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving technological landscape. Overall, the Systems Science and Mathematics program at Washington University in St. Louis provides a rigorous and comprehensive education designed to foster innovation, leadership, and lifelong learning in a highly interdisciplinary field.