Should I Pursue a PhD in Applied Mathematics with My Background?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations and requirements for pursuing a PhD in applied mathematics, particularly from the perspective of a student with a background in Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering and Econometrics. Participants explore the relevance of academic background, research experience, and standardized test scores in the application process.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether their non-math major background would be acceptable for a PhD program in applied mathematics.
  • Another participant suggests that candidates with a mathematics degree may be favored due to their prerequisite knowledge.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the importance of a publication compared to GRE scores, with differing opinions on the significance of the subject GRE in demonstrating mathematical understanding.
  • A later reply counters the idea that a math degree is strictly necessary, noting that many successful applicants to applied math programs come from diverse fields, including engineering and physics.
  • There is a discussion about the variability of program requirements, with some programs being more open to applicants from different backgrounds than others.
  • Questions are raised about the definition of "actual applied mathematics" programs and the necessity of upper-level mathematics courses for applicants without a math degree.
  • One participant speculates that practices may differ in the UK compared to the US regarding admissions to applied mathematics programs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of a mathematics degree for admission to applied mathematics PhD programs, with some asserting it is critical while others argue that diverse backgrounds are often accepted. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the relative importance of GRE scores versus research publications.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that program requirements can vary significantly, and some mention the potential influence of specific application areas on admissions criteria. There is also a lack of consensus on the role of standardized tests in the admissions process.

majesticman
Messages
25
Reaction score
0
Hi guys...
Just wanted to clarify a few doubts as to what i should do with myself in the future.

I am a double major in Electrical n Computer system engg (ECSE) and Econometrics (Actuarial science) in Australia.
I really enjoy maths especially math that we can apply to the real world to solve problems etc.

I have been considering of pursuing a Phd in applied math in US after i graduate <hopefully in a good univ.>.

My main questions are weather i would be allowed it be in a program in applied math when i have the background that i have. I mean that do they prefer math major for their grad program than people from my background.

I have research experience as i am involved in UROP (Undergrad Research opportunity prog) in a project regrading computational biology. I have not got a publication yet but if all goes well then i should have one in the near future.

How critical will that publication be as compared to my GRE socres?

Any constructive inputs are welcomed
 
Physics news on Phys.org
any views ppl?
 
majesticman said:
I mean that do they prefer math major for their grad program than people from my background.

Of course someone with a maths degree will be favoured over you, since they have all the prerequisite knowledge.

How critical will that publication be as compared to my GRE socres?

I'd say, in this case, that your subject GRE will be crucial, since you need to show them that you have a firm understanding of background maths.
 
cristo said:
Of course someone with a maths degree will be favoured over you, since they have all the prerequisite knowledge.



I'd say, in this case, that your subject GRE will be crucial, since you need to show them that you have a firm understanding of background maths.


This is not true, even though it sounds logical.

In actual applied math programs (not just subsets of the math program) it is unusual to require the GRE math subject test. They are often looking for people with different backgrounds. I would estimate fully 3/5 of applied math phds got their undergrad in a different field (such as physics or EE). This is especially true if the background ties into the application you want to go into. This varies by program, so look around (a good start is the USNews applied math program rankings), and check the websites for specific details. Some are in the old mold of accepting only solid math majors, but these are getting few and far between.
 
maze said:
In actual applied math programs (not just subsets of the math program)...

What do you mean by an "actual applied mathematics" course?

In order to be applied onto a mathematics phd program, you have to show ability in mathematics. If you don't have a degree in mathematics, then you'd better have taken a fair number of upper level mathematics courses.
 
Perhaps things are done differently in UK...
 

Similar threads

Applied Math PhD candidate but I hate group theory
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Programs Electrical Engineering PhD or Applied Physics PhD?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Programs "Back door" into physics for a math major
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Admissions I plan to apply for PhD program on 2025 Fall. What do you think?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Admissions PhD Programs for Mathematical Physics (Experimental Condensed Matter Physics)
  • · Replies 119 ·
4
Replies
119
Views
18K
Programs What courses would best benefit an Applied Mathematics degree?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Other Need advice on the Physics Programs I can realistically apply to
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Admissions Should I apply to Physics PhD programs?
  • · Replies 63 ·
3
Replies
63
Views
9K
Admissions Applying to a PhD in Pure Math with an undergraduate degree in physics
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
6K
PhD in Applied Mathematics - Finite Element Analysis
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K