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Applied Mathematics is an independent interdisciplinary graduate program with courses of study and research leading to Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
Since it was started in 1976, the Interdisciplinary Program in Applied Mathematics at the University of Arizona has grown in size and stature and is now a highly regarded interdisciplinary graduate program, both nationally and internationally. The great strength of the Program lies in its large body of distinguished faculty who come from many different academic disciplines in the mathematical, physical, biological, and engineering and social sciences. The breadth and depth of endeavor has created a vital and exciting environment in which to work.
By coming to Tucson you are opening yourself up for many opportunities:
Applicants must have an undergraduate background that contains a substantial mathematical component. The specific qualities we look for in applicants are informed both by our perspective of what constitutes modern applied mathematics and also by our past experience of student success. These qualities are broadly divided into four categories:
(1) Mastery of the foundational undergraduate material, specifically (a) multivariable calculus, (b) linear algebra and (c) differential equations.
(2) Aptitude for higher level mathematics as demonstrated by a selection of courses in advanced applied mathematical coursework, for example numerical methods, dynamical systems, complex analysis, PDEs, probability, stochastic processes, statistics, optimization, algorithms and mathematical physics.
(3) Solid command of theoretical mathematics, normally achieved via a full year of analysis or advanced calculus (if acquired at the undergraduate level).
(4) Commitment to excellence in mathematical research, as demonstrated by a high-quality undergraduate project, master's thesis, or work experience.
We value applicants from many different academic backgrounds. Some have undergraduate degrees specifically in applied math, and others have degrees in pure math, physics, statistics, engineering or computer science. Additionally, some come directly from their undergraduate degrees, some from masters programs, and others have several years of work experience in industry. Competitive applicants may be able to demonstrate proficiency in only three of the four categories when they apply to the program. We expect all students to become proficient in all four categories by the end of the qualifying process (the qualifying process normally occurs during the first year).
Applicants are required to submit GRE general test scores, and are encouraged to submit GRE mathematics subject test scores. Please visit the Application Procedures page for instructions on how to apply.
If you are a potential graduate student interested in obtaining a PhD and/or MS, or Certificate in Applied Mathematics, I hope you will find this information useful and stimulating.
Click here to Request More Info, watch a Video about the Program, and here to Apply to the Program.
Michael Chertkov
Chair, Program in Applied Mathematics
Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs
The Graduate College sponsors several Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs (GIDPs) in addition to the many interdisciplinary possibilities available through regular graduate degree programs. GIDPs transcend departmental boundaries by facilitating cutting edge teaching and research at the nexus of traditional disciplines. The high value placed on interdisciplinary research and education is indicative of The University of Arizona's enthusiasm and commitment to fostering innovation and creativity among its faculty and students.
Graduate College/GIDP
University of Arizona - Main - Tucson
International Student English Proficiency Requirements: https://grad.arizona.edu/admissions/requirements/international-applicants#english-proficiency.
Required test(s): GRE
Required GRE Subject tests: Recommended but Not Required
International Students English Proficiency Requirements:https://grad.arizona.edu/admissions/requirements/international-applicants#english-proficiency.
Research and Teaching Assistantships; Fellowships; Paid Internships; Tuition waivers; Health insurance
Domestic Applicants:
International Applicants:
International applicants will not be considered for conditional admission by this program.
4832
ETS Major Field Code(s) for this program: 0702
NRC Taxon(a) for this program: Applied Mathematics
65
Completion of forty-seven (47) units of graduate-level courses, exclusive of dissertation, approved by the Program and including:
Note: If the student has taken courses equivalent to some of the core courses, the core requirements may be revised. The total requirement of 47 units will not, however, be reduced. The Graduate College requires that 50% of the units must be in courses for which ABC grades are given. It is also a Graduate College requirement that all courses must be at the 500 level or above, with the exception that up to six units of 400-level courses may be taken outside the major area (which, for the Program means outside of the Department of Mathematics) with prior approval from the Program. The Program's requirement of a minimum of 9 units of course work outside the Mathematics Department is strictly adhered to.
Eighteen (18) dissertation units (920) are required for graduation. Students may register for more, but the maximum number of 920 units allowed per semester is nine (9).
PhD Degree Requirements are described here: https://appliedmath.arizona.edu/program-info/degree-requirements/phd-degree
Language requirements: None
MS Degree Requirements are described here: https://appliedmath.arizona.edu/program-info/degree-requirements/masters-degree
Nine (9) or more units of elective graduate course work either in mathematics and/or interdisciplinary topics is required. The choice of elective courses is very vast and the student's plan should be discussed with their advisor and/or the Director of Graduate studies.
The PhD degree at the University of Arizona is structured to have both a Major and a Minor. However, by completing the degree requirements for the PhD in Applied Mathematics, students simultaneously fulfill the requirements of the PhD minor in Applied Mathematics. However, students working on an interdisciplinary research topic and who want to highlight their knowledge in some area outside of mathematics may wish to investigate the possibilities of completing the minor requirements in that field. Not all departments offer a minor and requirements may vary. If the student has declared a minor outside of Applied Mathematics, the Comprehensive Exam Committee must include one faculty member representing the minor department. The representative of the minor department does not have to be a member of the Applied Mathematics Program but must be a tenure-track professor at that UA.
Deciding whether to pursue a minor in another field and planning the timetable to complete its requirements is not always obvious and students are strongly encouraged to discuss the matter with their advisor and/or the Program Head.
Please refer to the Graduate Student Handbook for students who are pursuing this program of study.
| Program-level Information | |
|---|---|
| Application Acceptance Rate | 61.82% |
| Avg. Time-to-degree (years) | 6.13 |
| Department-level Information | |
| Enrollment Percent Male | 56.99% |
| Enrollment Percent Female | 43.01% |
| Enrollment Percent International | 11.83% |
| Enrollment Percent URM | 10.75% |