Are you a student who excels in math and science but isn’t drawn to academic research, engineering, or medicine? In my experience, I often guide such students toward applied mathematics: and interdisciplinary field that combine mathematics with computing, finance, or biology. So, today we’ll talk about:
- What is applied mathematics?
- Why is it considered an “interdisciplinary” major?
- What career paths are available after graduation?
- How should high school students prepare for an applied mathematics major?
1. Understanding Applied Mathematics
Applied mathematics gained prominence during World War II when mathematicians contributed to aerodynamics, underwater demolition, and artillery targeting, demonstrating math’s real-world applications. Unlike pure mathematics, which focuses on abstract theories, applied mathematics uses math as a tool to solve practical problems. Since then, there has been a greater emphasis on developing professionals with expertise in both mathematics and other fields.
Pure Mathematics vs. Applied Mathematics
Pure mathematics focuses on abstract theories and computations, leading to careers in academia or teaching. Applied mathematics, on the other hand, combines mathematical expertise with other fields of study to solve real world problems. Consider a basic math word problem:
A school plans to plant 400 trees. Over the first three days, students plant 240 trees. How many more days will it take to finish at this rate?
A pure math student would simply calculate the number of days. An applied math student, however, would also analyze efficiency and explore ways to optimize the process, considering factors like project management and logistics.
2. An Interdisciplinary Major
Applied mathematics offers diverse career paths in fields such as computer science, business, engineering, and biology. Students should select a program that align with their goals. While all universities will provide a similar mathematical foundation, each program has its own strengths:
- Imperial College London focusses on using mathematics to solve problems in physics and other natural sciences
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)’s program emphasizes computational mathematics.
- Brown University integrates applied mathematics into its liberal arts curriculum, focusing mainly on biology, computing, and economics.
Some universities don’t offer applied mathematics as a standalone major. In such cases, students can pursue a double major—combining mathematics with a second field.
3. Career Prospects
At the undergraduate level, applied mathematics coursework covers foundational mathematical principles. As a result, most graduates qualify for analytical roles rather than highly specialized technical positions. Common career paths include data science and financial analysis.
1) Data Scientist (Computing Track)
Data science is a fast-growing field, with high demand and competitive salaries—entry-level positions in the U.S. can pay an average annual salary of $110,000. This role involves analyzing data to guide business decisions, optimize operations, and predict trends.
2) Financial Analyst (Finance Track)
Financial analysts assess market trends, investment opportunities, and economic data to advise companies or clients on financial decisions. They typically work in banks, investment firms, securities companies, or insurance firms. Even interns in the U.S. can earn an average of $37,000 per year, while full-time entry-level salaries start around $70,000. Mathematically skilled professionals are in high demand in finance, where they can apply mathematical modeling to market analysis.
3) Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
As one of the fastest-growing fields in tech, AI and machine learning require strong quantitative skills—something applied math majors naturally possess. However, in order to excel, students should complement their mathematical studies with computer science courses, focusing specifically on AI and machine learning.
Since undergraduate studies provide only a basic level of expertise, many applied mathematics students pursue graduate degrees in engineering, computing, business, or biology. Regardless of the field, practical experience through internships and projects is crucial.
4. High School Preparation for an Applied Mathematics Major
Students should possess strong mathematical ability, with proficiency in computing and statistics recommended. They should participate in relevant activities and competitions to strengthen their quantitative skills.
For example, I advised a 10th-grade student from an international school in Guangzhou, studying the AP curriculum, to take:
- AP Calculus
- AP Statistics
- AP Economics
- AP Computer Science
I also advised that he participate in math competitions, such as the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) and the High School Mathematical Contest in Modeling (HiMCM). The latter requires students to form teams and apply mathematical techniques to solve real-world problems. He also attended summer programs at Wharton and Stanford, where he explored data analytics applications in sports, finance, and big data.
Before you go…
Applied mathematics is about using mathematics as a tool to solve real-world problems, making it ideal for students who excel in math and science but prefer practical applications over pure theoretical research. This major offers broad career opportunities, allowing students to refine their direction as they progress in their studies. With proper planning, passion, and perseverance, applied mathematics can open doors to a promising future.
Samidha Education Co., Ltd. 
Leave a comment