Applied Mathematics (BS)
Where complex concepts meet complicated problems
You’re a problem solver, approaching a question from every angle to find a solution. MBU’s applied mathematics program brings an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to real-world issues, using modeling, analysis, algorithm development, and simulation to find dynamic solutions. Whether you’re considering a career in science, engineering, computer science, or economics, an applied mathematics degree can complete the equation for success.
- Time to Completion
- 4 years
- Format
- On Campus
- Degree(s)
- Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of 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. An applied mathematics degree from MBU can make you part of that solution, with an interdisciplinary approach. Applied mathematics is where the rubber hits the road.
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, no problem you can’t solve.
Next steps
MBU-UVA Cooperative
Program in Engineering
Earn your bachelor’s in applied mathematics from MBU and receive priority consideration for a master’s in engineering from UVA through our dual degree program!
- Students complete their bachelor’s at MBU and the master’s at UVA with a streamlined and accelerated curriculum plan
- You must meet UVA’s admissions criteria for their graduate engineering program
- You must complete the calculus and physics sequence your freshman year
Interested? Be sure to contact Dr. Joseph Johnson at jjohnson@marybaldwin.edu for more information.
Connecting Mathematics to the World Beyond 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 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 ’22Applied math major and recipient of a U.S. Department of Energy Graduate Computations Science Fellowship
Students Love Our Courses
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.
Examine mathematics through the lens of programming. Learn how to state and solve math problems in a programming language, and mathematical skills related to computer science. Compare different programming languages while exploring computation, automata, programming paradigms, and complexity theory.
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. Uniqueness and existence questions will also be covered.
Cost & Financial Aid
A great education is worth it. Here’s how Mary Baldwin helps you pay for it: Generous financial aid packages, a broad range of scholarships, transferring maximum credit hours from previous coursework or relevant work and life experiences — the list goes on. Our mission is to help you level up and bring your aspirations to life.
MBU helps 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.