What is Applied math: Definition and 154 Discussions

Applied mathematics is the application of mathematical methods by different fields such as physics, engineering, medicine, biology, finance, business, computer science, and industry. Thus, applied mathematics is a combination of mathematical science and specialized knowledge. The term "applied mathematics" also describes the professional specialty in which mathematicians work on practical problems by formulating and studying mathematical models.
In the past, practical applications have motivated the development of mathematical theories, which then became the subject of study in pure mathematics where abstract concepts are studied for their own sake. The activity of applied mathematics is thus intimately connected with research in pure mathematics.

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  1. A

    Computer Science, mathematics, or applied math?

    Basically, I'm going to be enrolling into a local university soon but there is a small dilemma as to what exactly I should major in. At first, I thought I wanted computer science but after doing a basic 3d game and tons of other little small projects in various languages (word processor, social...
  2. I

    Programs Difference between an applied math and pure math degree.

    From what I've heard, both do theory, but applied math has a lot more computational and applicable electives, vs. the theoretical based electives of pure math.
  3. T

    Schools Requirements for Applied Math Grad Schools

    Hi, I'm a math major coming to the end of my second year. Right now I'm leaning toward to studying Statistics or Probability in Grad School. From what I've read, Statistics doesn't use Algebra or Differential Equations at all, so classes in those areas aren't of much use. Would the same...
  4. Q

    Which school for applied math?

    Aiming for scientific computing topics as applied math PhD student... which school would be better? University of Florida or North Carolina State University?
  5. MathWarrior

    Applied Math -> Computer Science/Computational Engineer/EE

    I am nearly done with all my basic undergraduate course work and will soon be pursuing the rest of my applied math degree. There are a variety of upper division classes that I have the option of taking. I was wondering which ones seem best suited if you were going to get your masters in either...
  6. S

    What are Spherical Harmonics and their Applicability in Applied Math?

    Hi, Can anyone please help me understand what spherical harmonics are and their applicability?
  7. K

    Math What are some career options for an Applied Math B.A. graduate?

    Obviously the job market is tough for everyone right now, but I was wondering whether anyone might have some guidance for me. I graduated in May 2010 with a B.A. in Math with an Applied concentration from a midwestern liberal arts college. My grades were pretty decent, but I got a few B+'s in...
  8. C

    Programs B.S. in Applied Math to grad degree in physics

    I'm currently a senior at the Coast Guard Academy (graduating in May). My degree is in Applied Math (specifically Operations Research) but am looking to get a grad degree in physics or applied physics in a few years. What courses am I missing to A. get into a physics grad program and B. have...
  9. H

    Math Exploring Applied Math MS/PhD Jobs: Roles, Industries, and Personal Experiences

    Many schools advertise their applied math graduate programs by answering the question "what kind of job does a mathematician do?" The answers all essentially say the same thing--something like "you can teach, work for a government agency, or work in industry." They are very bad at explaining...
  10. C

    What to learn in pure math for applied math?

    So I finished my undergrad last year in applied math and physics. I'm currently applying to applied math phD programs (but they are separate depts from the pure math depts). I don't exactly what I want to focus on, but I was thinking something in mathematical physics, PDEs, functional analysis...
  11. A

    Programs Considering a Third Major: Applied Math

    Hello. I'm currently planning to be a double major in Math and Physics and I've scheduled my four years quite a bit (and I took fact of the account that my classes are likely to change over time of course). After scheduling all my classes to fit all the necessary requirements to graduate, I...
  12. C

    Theorem proofs in applied math grad programs

    I find myself switching my mind a lot when deciding whether to apply to aerospace engineering or applied math programs. One thing that will be a factor is how much proving of theorems is required in the applied math grad courses. Does anyone know how much proving of theorems is required in...
  13. S

    Math Applied Math Careers(Finance, Statstics,etc)

    Hello, I am in my final 18 months of my Applied Math BS. I am at the point where I can specialize in a few different areas, I could either take elective courses in Stats or in a more General Applied/Computation/Modelling track. I'm not sure what I want to do with my degree once I'm done yet but...
  14. A

    Programs Where should I pursue a PhD in Applied Math or Mathematical Physics?

    Hi everyone, this is my fist post, I am seeking some guidance on where to pursue a PhD. degree on Applied Math or Mathematical Physics. I got my Bachelor's on Physics and right now I'm on the second half of a Master's in math. I'm planning to apply soon for a PhD but I've got no real idea where...
  15. M

    Dilemma: Majoring in CS or Applied Math?

    Hello, I'm a high school student in the Netherlands and next year I am going to University. I am thinking of majoring in Computer Science although I would like to hear you're opinion on the pro's/con's on studing Computer Science vs studing Applied Mathematics. Both the Math departement as...
  16. D

    Graduate level PDE important in applied math?

    Dear Mathematicians and Physicists, In light of the coming fall semester, I am having a decision to take a full blown graduate level Elliptic PDE class. The prerequisites is of course Graduate level analysis and perhaps a undergrad class in PDE, both of which I already have. The class will be...
  17. L

    Math Exploring Career Opportunities in Applied Math

    I'm trying to get a sense of what the job opportunities are in applied and industrial math, in particular scientific computing and modeling. I'm thinking about pursuing this as a career but have found it rather hard to find much specific information. Does this imply these sorts of jobs are...
  18. L

    Academic Advice for Applied Math?

    Desperately need some advice PF, thanks so much for any input! Background: I am going to change my major from physics/astronomy to applied maths, for two reasons: 1. I seems to have more of a natural ability in math and programming than physics style problem solving. 2. I will be...
  19. R

    Math Is a Master's in Applied Math the Key to Advancing as a Physicist?

    I'm currently a master's student in physics. I really don't want to go on to a phd. I feel that in order to be a better physicist, I need more math training. I didn't do a math double major as an undergrad, and now I wish I did. How much would I get out of a math degree? Is someone with two...
  20. R

    Testing Luck and pure math exams vs. applied math exams

    has luck been a factor in your exam? How does it compare in pure math exams to applied math exams? I personally feel that in applied math I'm able to do w/e i have practiced, luck isn't that important. But in pure math i need a luck factor as well, along with a good practice. I feel like have...
  21. D

    Pure Mathematics vs. Applied Math vs. Discrete Math

    "Pure" Mathematics vs. Applied Math vs. Discrete Math I'm approaching the point where I'm going to have to decide which four-year university I'm going to finish my Bachelor's degree at. I'm pretty much restricted to colleges in Georgia, and I am primarily looking at Georgia State and Georgia...
  22. R

    Programs Help me decide applied math degree.

    Hello everyone, I just discovered these forums and love them to death. Anyway, I was hoping you could all help me on something. The age-old BS or BA question. I am currently "attending" a college's online degree program for a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in applied...
  23. P

    Pure & Applied Math: Study Both in Grad School?

    Dear PF members, I am about to begin my junior year as a math major, and I feel like I made one observation. That is, if I want to study math at advanced level, I need to choose either pure or applied mathematics. I have also noticed that if I get a title of "mathematician," that implicitly...
  24. M

    Get Applied Math BS in addition to Physics? (Goal=Medical Physics)

    I was thinking about postponing my graduation one year to get a BS in Applied Mathematics in addition to my Physics BS. My goal is to get into a top Medical Physics program. I am currently a member of a Medical Physics research group here at my school and have impressed my advisor. He thinks...
  25. O

    Math How is applied math research done

    I was curious how research in applied math is done, the reason I'm curious is because I can't seem to believe that research is started with a question...like "what temperature will a cell freeze without killing the cell" for example. All I've ever seen is math modeling of a phenomenon. thank you
  26. D

    Programs Considering an Applied Math Minor: Is it Worth it?

    I was thinking of getting an applied math minor while going for the pure math degree. I only need 2 more applied math courses to get it, so it wouldn't be a BIG deal, I could just take them as options. Is it worth it?
  27. W

    PhD decision: Applied Math vs Aerospace Engg.

    I have Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Aerospace Engineering. I recently got PhD admits from University of Michigan (Aerospace Engineering) and University of Texas at Austin (Computational & Applied Mathematics). I need to make a choice between the both and I hope you guys can help me out.
  28. M

    Physics and applied math journals

    I'm quite new. Can anyone give me a link or sense of physics and applied mathematics journals and their rankings. I tried the search function but it all seems scattered. Google too is not helping much. Thanks y'all.
  29. A

    Applied Math vs. Computer Science vs. Statistics

    Applied Math? vs. Statistics? vs. Computer Science? First of all, I enjoy all of these, and was wondering which you would pick based on other factors... Which one will have the most job opportunities in the near future (10 years approx)? Which one will have the most chances for lucrative...
  30. thrill3rnit3

    Programs Which majors or minors can complement Applied Math?

    What would be some good major or minors that I can declare along with Applied Math? I think I'm pretty decided on the Applied Maths part, but I'd like to do probably a double major, or a minor, just to improve my credentials and my scope of knowledge. Do you think that's a good idea? If...
  31. thrill3rnit3

    Programs Physics degree vs. Engineering vs. Applied Math

    Pros and cons of each? I want my future to have something to do with Math [ it's my passion duh ], but I'd rather study an application of it than in it's purety [ though that's still not out of the question ]. So right now I'm considering getting a Physics degree, or maybe an Engineering [...
  32. X

    Graduate Programs in Applied Math

    Hi all. I am trying to get a sense for applications to graduate programs in applied math. What are the general GPA requirements for top-25 programs? I am currently doubling majoring in Physics and Economics looking to do applied mathematical modeling of social science problems (game theory...
  33. C

    Courses What applied math courses should i take?

    i only need 3 more for the B.S. degree. I know for sure I have to take Intro to Stats B, so I need to pick 2 more classes from: Numerical Analysis A, Combinatorics, Optimization, Abstract Algebra (I dropped the honors version), Topology, Fourier Analysis, Real Analysis B i'm scared to take real...
  34. C

    Applied math or mechanical engineering

    i'm currently a physics and applied math double major considering applying to grad schools next fall. i plan on going to graduate school to study applied math or engineering. I'm worried that not too many companies will want someone with an applied math degree who studied modeling. my...
  35. R

    Schools Applied Math vs. Academic Math: Comparing Learning Paths

    Do applied/college math learn the same thing as academic students but with a more shallow approach? Or does the college/math student learn both less the shallow approach and as well as less content?
  36. B

    Should I Pursue Engineering or Applied Math for Graduate School?

    Hello all. I have a BA in mathematics and plan on going to graduate school to study applied math or engineering. I'm worried that not too many companies will want someone with an applied math degree who studied optimization and modeling. Is it a rational fear that there would not be too many...
  37. B

    Schools Engineering or Applied Math in graduate School

    Greetings from Ca. brothers and sisters of the scientific ilk. I seek your guidance out of the fog that is the many choices of life. First, the bio: I am a 30 year old math teacher that hates teaching high school. I've decided to go to graduate school to pursue my calling--what ever it is. I am...
  38. M

    What classes to take applied math?

    so here's the thing, i basically have a physics minor and decided to go to applied math grad school since i think it'll open up more options and involves more math and won't involve experiments than engineering. i don't want to do theoretical physics since I'm concerned about job opportunities...
  39. F

    Programs Graduate Programs (applied math) for Non-Math Majors

    A little over a year ago I graduated from a state school (Western Michigan University) with a double major in Film and Archeology. I have always liked math but was more focused on film. This summer I started studying math on my own and placed into a pre calculus class at a city college. I am...
  40. M

    Schools Applied math major, thinking of grad school

    hey guys im currently an applied math major, with a CS minor, about to enter my 4th year. I am thinking i'd like to work in robotics maybe, and might be considering getting masters-level education in EE, or systems engineering. is this an easy transition, from applied math, to engineering...
  41. R

    Which Is Better for Economics: B.Sc. in Statistics or Applied Math?

    I'm looking to see what the significant differences are between the fields. Grad school is a possibility at this point, but for the sake of argument, let's talk about employability with just a B.Sc. in either field. I have a solid foundation of basic math courses (starting junior year this...
  42. W

    Which Major Would Benefit Me More: Applied Math or Discrete? (Link Included)

    I want to choose either one of these as a second major. Problem is, I'm undecided. My current major is pure math; I want another major so that I have a escape door to the corporate job market in case I decide to stir away from academia. Which one of these two disciplines would benefit me the most?
  43. E

    Debating Grad School in Physics vs Applied Math

    I am debating whether I should go to grad school in physics or applied math and it is tearing me apart. Let me first say that I have absolutely no interest in performing any sort of experiment. What I am interested in is mathematical model-building. However, I am interested mainly in building...
  44. Holocene

    Applied Math Jobs: Explore Career Options

    What type of jobs are avilable to someone with a degree in applied math?
  45. B

    Maximizing Applied Math Electives: Balancing Double Major and Graduation Goals

    Is it bad if you start taking your applied math elective courses in your junior and senior year, while double majoring in physics and retaking abstract algebra in the fall of your junior year? Lets say you want to at least graduated in 2010
  46. J

    Programs Mechanical Engineer: Benefits of Minor in Applied Math

    I am a Mechanical Engineering student...can a minor in applied math help later on my career?
  47. M

    Pursuing a Ph.D. in Applied Math & Bachelors/Masters in EE Simultaneously?

    Is it possible and/or likely to pursue a ph.d in applied mathematics and at the same time pick up a bachelors in EE? What about a masters in EE after that 2nd bachelors while still in a applied math ph.d program?
  48. B

    Programs Exploring a Physics, Applied Math and Chemistry Triple Major in College

    Currently, I am a freshman in college and I am majoring in Physics and Applied Mathematics. I am taking Calc II this semester, even though I have already had it in hs, and find it to be fairly easy. Anyway, since most (if not all) of you have already been in the same position as I am in, I was...
  49. P

    Programs Majoring in applied math and physics

    What are the benefits of double majoring in both physics and applied mathematics. I am not talking about financial benefits. I was reading about applied math and subtopics like game theory and cryptography seem kinda interesting. Can anyone enlighten on what kind of careers I can have with a...
  50. T

    Which is better? BS in Applied Math or Physics?

    If someone is to not go to graduate school, which degree is better? Which degree provides more job opportunites? Keep in mind I know there are not many, and this is not my situation. I'm just curious.
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