Mathematics plays a central role in the physical, biological, economic and social sciences. Because of this, employment prospects are always strong for individuals with degrees in mathematics, and there are excellent career opportunities. A bachelor’s degree in mathematics or applied mathematics offers a strong background for graduate school in many areas (including computer science, medicine, and law, in addition to mathematics and science) or a position in the private sector. A master’s degree in mathematics or applied mathematics, or an undergraduate degree in applied mathematics combined with a master’s in a different area, is an excellent basis for employment in the private sector in a technical field. A PhD degree is usually necessary for college teaching and research.
Statistics links mathematics to other disciplines in order to understand uncertainty and probability in the abstract and in the context of actual applications to science, medicine, actuarial science, social science, management science, business, engineering, and contemporary life. As technology brings advances, the statistical theory and methodology required to do them justice becomes more challenging: higher dimensional, dynamic, or computer-intensive. The field of statistics is rapidly expanding to meet the three facets of these challenges: the underlying mathematical theory, the data analysis and modeling methodology, and the interdisciplinary collaborations and new fields of application.
Students in the department, both undergraduate and graduate, have opportunities to interact personally with faculty and other students, and research and other activities are available. In addition, undergraduates can obtain teaching experience via the department’s supplemental instruction program.
Mission of the Department
The Department of Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics provides a broad and solid educational program designed for the dual goals of transferring of mathematical knowledge and advancing the state of the art through outstanding research. Students, both graduate and undergraduate, engage in research and educational activities within the department and across disciplines. The department will promote demographic diversity with respect to age, gender, and ethnicity to create a welcoming atmosphere to all its members.