Hi, I was just wondering what an applied math class (specifically in natural sciences) entails exactly. I understand the gist of the difference between applied and pure mathematics, but I wonder whether applied mathematics is more of a physics class than a math class.
Could someone who has taken, is taking, or is particularly knowledgeable of applied mathematics courses (especially in the natural sciences, but I’m sure those who have taken business or finance related math could give good insight, as well) tell me what applied math courses are like? How much math–as compared to conceptual information of a particular field–does it really involve? Thanks!
Applied Mathematics is a very general term. Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Numerical Analysis, Actuarial Sciences, many statistics courses, some branches of computer science, and many more courses could be considered applied mathematics. There’s also subdivisions of physics, chemistry, astronomy, geology etc that are heavy on math that you could consider containing applied mathematics. Most of those courses in my second list will require pre-requisite knowledge of those fields to be able to sign up for them but will typically have a high percentage of the work using math to carry out problems in those fields. The first few courses in my first list are applied mathematics courses that won’t require much knowledge of non-math natural science courses.
I suggest you look up at your school if there is an applied mathematics degree or math degree with a concentration of applied mathematics and see which courses are on there. Also look for natural science courses that have math courses as pre-reqs (though that wont guarantee that it is mostly going to be mathy).
Applied math is anything other than theoretical math. Theoretical math is weird academic stuff, like topology, abstract algebra , and real analysis. Logic, combinatiorics, graph theory,and number theory are also sort of theorectical, but introductory courses in them can be useful. In the 1950s, most upper level and graduate courses in math were theoretical, but it has changed because they aren’t helpful with the career and students don’t want to take them.
Applied math often means applied to science and engineering, and is often numerical methods and differential equations. It can also be statistics, operations research, and financial math.
Applied math degree is also employable as well as more freedom in your class choices. You still have to do 1 or 2 proof classes but just work really hard and you will be fine. Baylor has a good applied math program and professors have great office hours. So research your school and support services.