Applied Mathematics, M.S.

appliedmath.ucmerced.edu
Contact: Applied Mathematics Graduate Committee, online contact form

Applied Mathematics uses analytical and computational tools to solve real-world problems. Its foundations lie in modeling, analysis, scientific computing, and data science. The Applied Mathematics graduate program at UC Merced offers students opportunities to engage in multidisciplinary research at the interface of life sciences, physical sciences, engineering, and social sciences. Both Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees are offered.

Our coursework provides rigorous training in the fundamental methods of applied mathematics, including ordinary and partial differential equations, numerical analysis and scientific computing, as well as modern tools in data science and machine learning. An key goal of applied mathematics is to make significant contributions to other disciplines, fostering a truly interdisciplinary research and educational environment.

During their first year, students take the Applied Mathematics Core courses, complete preliminary exams, and explore active research areas within the faculty group. In the second year, they finish the Core sequence, enroll in Special Topics courses, and begin work on their M.S. research project. M.S. students typically complete their degrees within two years.

Graduates of the program pursue a wide range of careers and further study opportunities. Employers value the analytical reasoning, computational expertise, and data-driven problem-solving skills our students acquire. Alumni find positions in government and industrial research laboratories across fields such as engineering, energy, telecommunications, transportation and pharmaceuticals, as well as in consulting, finance and education.  

The combination of a strong mathematical foundation, computational and data science expertise, and applied research experience gives our graduates a distinct advantage in today’s interdisciplinary job market. Those pursuing academic careers, as postdoctoral researchers or faculty, benefit from the breadth of their teaching, research and computational training, and from their ability to connect mathematics with real-world applications.

All M.S. students must pass the preliminary exams offered in the first year and complete the five core courses covering ordinary and partial differential equations, numerical linear algebra, machine learning and data science. Details regarding specific degree requirements may be found at appliedmath.ucmerced.edu/academics/graduate-studies/courses.