Applied Mathematics (BS)
Where complex concepts meet complicated problems.
Designed for students eager to use mathematics to address complex challenges, MBU’s applied mathematics major equips you with the skills to analyze and solve complicated problems in fields like engineering, data
science, AI research and more. With multiple pathways, including our Data Analysis and Statistics Emphasis, and our unique MBU-UVA cooperative program in Engineering, this major prepares you for real-world success.
- Time to Completion4 years
- FormatOn Campus
- Degree(s)Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
- NeighborhoodHealth & Science
Next steps
Why study applied mathematics at Mary Baldwin?
Mathematical concepts underlie everything — from global economics to the movement of your body’s cells. Using mathematical models, analysis, and simulation, individuals in diverse, critical professions grapple with some of the world’s most challenging problems. A Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Mathematics from MBU will make you part of that solution.
Our graduates pursue careers and graduate study in engineering, computer science, biology, chemistry, physics, or economics. With an applied mathematics degree under your belt, there’s nowhere you can’t go, and no problem you can’t solve.
Special mathematics opportunities at MBU
Mathematics majors have the opportunity to participate in conferences, including the Shenandoah Undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics Conference at James Madison University, and research experiences for undergraduates at various partner colleges.
Seniors complete a capstone project that relates their work to an industry or subject of potential graduate study, and our Math Club presents opportunities for civic engagement on campus
MBU-UVA Cooperative Program in Engineering
Earn your Bachelor’s of Applied Mathematics from MBU and receive priority consideration for a Master’s of Engineering from the University of Virginia through our dual degree program!
Students in this program complete their bachelor’s at MBU and their master’s at UVA with a streamlined and accelerated curriculum plan. Eligible students must:
- Meet UVA’s admissions criteria for their graduate engineering program
- Complete the calculus and physics sequence your freshman year
Interested? Be sure to contact Dr. Wolff at agwolff@marybaldwin.edu. for more information.
Next steps
MBU taught me the value of my own intellectual freedom and curiosity. I don’t want to pigeonhole myself in a specialist career: I want to pursue my interests and intrigues, and discover where they’ll lead me.
Katie Keegan BS ’22Applied math major and recipient of a U.S. Department of EnergyGraduate Computations Science Fellowship
Courses Students Love
Don’t expect a tired lecture at Mary Baldwin! Our courses are high quality and practical.
Sample core and elective courses include:
An introduction to the techniques of theoretical mathematics. Explore logic, truth tables, deductive proof, principles of mathematical induction, algorithms, algebraic structures, discrete probability, counting methods, relations, and graph theory. Many topics have substantial applications to computer science.
This course surveys: the techniques and algorithms of numerical computing, numerical solution of algebraic equations and differential equations, interpolation, approximation, and iteration theory, numerical differentiation and numerical integration, error analysis, stability and convergence of solutions.
Differential equations is a powerful modeling tool that can be applied to an array of disciplines, including environmental and population studies, radioactive decay, fluid flow, epidemiology, and engineering. Study the theory and methods of initial value problems of first and second order equations, and systems of first order linear equations with constant coefficients. Learn about methods like integrating factors, undetermined coefficients, variation of parameters, and the linearization of nonlinear problems. Questions of uniqueness and existence will also be covered.
Explore the Neighborhood
This major is part of the Health & Science Neighborhood. Neighbors live together their first year, study and take classes together, and enjoy special curated activities.
Our Faculty
Our faculty are deeply invested in the academic and professional success of our students. With a passion for teaching, these educators go above and beyond, providing mentorship, personalized guidance, and exciting hands-on research opportunities.
Cost & Financial Aid
A great education is worth it. Our mission is to help you bring your aspirations to life.
MBU lets you fast-track your path to a bachelor’s degree with the opportunity to transfer up to 18 credits (6 courses) through direct course equivalents from the Virginia Community Colleges System.
A bachelor’s degree requires 120 credit hours of study.