Applied Math

14 reviews
Decorative laurel wreath
0.0
Overall
Student Satisfaction
Career Prospects
Decorative laurel wreath

About this major

Applied Math focuses on the use of mathematical methods and models to solve real-world problems in various industries, including technology, finance, and engineering. Students gain skills in complex problem-solving, data analysis, and computational techniques.

STEMAnalyticalProblem-solvingComputationalQuantitative

Student Experience

Satisfaction
Career outlook
71%
Recommendation
86%
Plan grad school

Academic Balance

Math intensity
94th percentile
Writing intensity
51st percentile
WorkloadHard
84th percentile
DifficultyHard
70th percentile
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Student Reviews

Tone
Sophomore Verified
MixedDifficulty & workload

The math classes at CMU are very challenging - even the most fundamental courses have huge workloads and harsh grading. I constantly felt overwhelmed by the amount of work, although that's partly because I was taking a lot of classes. But overall I learned a lot.

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveGood for Grad SchoolTime-ConsumingMentally Demanding
Jul 2025
Junior Verified
MixedCourses & teaching

I did take graduate level courses because the undergrad courses lack rigor in my opinion, but the grad courses are splendid and have on par rigor with other schools

Apr 2026
Graduated
PositiveCourses & teaching

If you're a quant person, this will not be a boring major! Rigorous proof-based maths courses will sharpen your analytical thinking and a specialized applied field in financial mathematics is very helpful in job aspect.

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveHigh Earning PotentialTech-OrientedMentally DemandingWould Recommend
Jan 2026
Junior Verified
MixedCourses & teaching

Studying Applied Mathematics at USC has been both challenging and rewarding. The program is highly quantitative and pushes you to think critically and abstractly while also connecting theory to real-world applications. You’ll take core classes in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations early on, and then move into advanced topics like probability theory, numerical analysis, and optimization.

Theory-HeavyTech-OrientedTime-ConsumingLoved It
Oct 2025
Graduated
MixedDifficulty & workload

chose Applied Math for its versatility and strong foundation in problem-solving. While the major offers flexibility and broad career prospects in tech, finance, and research, the coursework is extremely demanding. Many classes are proof-heavy and require a strong math background. Faculty are knowledgeable, but support can be limited outside of class. It’s rewarding if you enjoy rigorous academics, but I wouldn’t recommend it for those looking for a lighter workload. I wish I had known how theoretical some courses would be. Applied Math has shaped my thinking, but it’s not for the faint of heart.

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveLoved ItChallenging but FulfillingMentally Demanding
Jul 2025
Freshman Verified
PositiveCourses & teaching

Math at UT as a freshman is pretty simple since. I have only taken linear algebra, differential equations, discrete and probability, most of the stuff are pretty easy and is an A guarantee if you are willing to spend time in it. Math environment at UT is also pretty chill. You could meet a lot of people who study math and went to fields in many different careers.

Math-IntensiveGood for Grad SchoolTime-ConsumingSurprisingly ManageableLoved ItChallenging but Fulfilling
Jul 2025
Freshman
MixedCourses & teaching

Wouldn't recommend for most people unless you enjoy theory/abstract concepts. Slight emphasis on some applicable skills by incorporating cs/eng courses in curriculum is nice. In lower divs, curves are usually generous, so score higher than the average and you'll be fine.

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveTech-OrientedGood for Grad SchoolTime-ConsumingMentally Demanding
Jul 2025
Sophomore Verified
PositiveCourses & teaching

As a sophomore in Applied Math, I love how the major blends theory with real-world problem solving. The courses are challenging but rewarding, especially when you see math modeling actual phenomena. Be ready for lots of programming and collaboration—it’s not just pencil and paper! Definitely recommend if you enjoy logical thinking and want versatile career options.

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveTime-ConsumingSupportive FacultyLoved It
Oct 2025
Junior Verified
PositiveEnjoyment & fit

Applied math is a very fun major if you don’t enjoy reading but love theory. You have to do lots of problems but everything makes sense at the end of the day.

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveHigh Earning PotentialTech-OrientedSurprisingly ManageableSupportive Faculty
Oct 2025
Junior
PositiveCareers & next steps

Though there is a TON of math within the curriculum, this opens many doors especially if you minor in computer science or plan to break into the tech sector.

Math-IntensiveHigh Earning PotentialTech-OrientedMentally DemandingTime-ConsumingChallenging but Fulfilling
Nov 2025
Sophomore Verified
PositiveEnjoyment & fit

It's challenging but satisfying, if you enjoy critical thinking and real world applications you'll enjoy amath.

Apr 2026
Senior Verified
PositiveDifficulty & workload

Needs lots of work and time to get good grades in this major. But as long as you put enough effort into it and have interest in it, you will be fine.

Jul 2025
Junior
CriticalDifficulty & workload

I hate math. It is very useless and hard to learn. I got a solid degree compare with many other majors. The average for my math elective is 50/100. The professor do not always curve, and the department is not that good.

Oct 2025
Senior Verified
MixedCourses & teaching

It is a journey with mixed feelings and expectations. The classes and contents can be harder than you think. But if you can survive most of the courses, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger!

Theory-HeavyMath-IntensiveGood for Grad SchoolMentally DemandingTime-ConsumingMixed Feelings
Oct 2025

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