Linear Algebra
Covers vector spaces, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors, essential for mathematical modeling.
Difficulty
Demanding
Students rate Applied Math 3.7/5 for difficulty across 16 ratings.
Average difficultyBased on 16 students across 10 schools.View review makeup
3.7/ 5
Share of students at each rating
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What makes this major demanding?
Worth it?
75% would recommend it
Based on 16 reviews across 10 schools
What students say about the payoff
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Curriculum and careers
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.
Core course themes
Differential Equations
Explores methods to solve ordinary and partial differential equations used in scientific modeling.
Probability and Statistics
Introduces probability theory and statistical methods crucial for data analysis and decision making.
Numerical Analysis
Focuses on algorithms for numerical solutions to mathematical problems, emphasizing error analysis and approximation.
Optimization
Studies techniques for finding the best solutions under given constraints, applicable in operations research and management.
Complex Variables
Examines functions of a complex variable, including integration and series, useful in engineering and physics applications.
Common roles
- Data Analyst
- Quantitative Analyst
- Operations Research Analyst
- Actuary
- Software Developer
Why salary figures are not shownSalary data appears only when its source, geography, occupation mapping, and date can be verified.
Applied Math by school
Scores account for sample sizePreparing school differences…
University of Southern California6 reviews
- Career outlook
- 3.2
- Enjoyment
- 3.5
- Recommend
- 72%
Emory University2 reviews
- Career outlook
- 3.5
- Enjoyment
- 3.7
- Recommend
- 79%
Carnegie Mellon University1 review
- Career outlook
- 3.4
- Enjoyment
- 3.8
- Recommend
- 68%
Texas State University1 review
- Career outlook
- 3.5
- Enjoyment
- 3.7
- Recommend
- 77%
The University of Texas at Austin1 review
- Career outlook
- 3.4
- Enjoyment
- 3.8
- Recommend
- 77%
University of California-Berkeley1 review
- Career outlook
- 3.2
- Enjoyment
- 3.4
- Recommend
- 68%
University of California-Davis1 review
- Career outlook
- 3.4
- Enjoyment
- 3.4
- Recommend
- 77%
University of California-Los Angeles1 review
- Career outlook
- 3.4
- Enjoyment
- 3.8
- Recommend
- 77%
Community
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Student reviews
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.
Jul 2025
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
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.
Jan 2026
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.
Oct 2025
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.
Jul 2025
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.
Jul 2025
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.
Jul 2025
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.
Oct 2025
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.
Oct 2025
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.
Nov 2025
Up until calc 3, linear algebra, numerical analysis, and some math electives
Sep 2026
Tucker Sampson · JuniorApplied MathTechnically, I am not majoring in Applied Math but instead Applied Math & Statistics. It is a joint major with the Math and Data Science departments and it is a great mix of coding, stats, data science, and applied/discrete maths.
Sep 2026
PositiveEnjoyment & fit
It's challenging but satisfying, if you enjoy critical thinking and real world applications you'll enjoy amath.
Apr 2026
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
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
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