Learn Applied Mathematics at UNE
Put your math skills to use in solving real-world problems in research and industry. Many fields — from finance to marketing, from web analysis to medicine — are increasingly reliant on sophisticated mathematical methods. UNE’s Applied Mathematics major integrates technology and theoretical mathematics, emphasizing computer-based modeling and statistical methods that translate to a wide range of disciplines and career opportunities.
Why UNE for Your B.S. in Applied Mathematics
The strength of UNE’s Applied Mathematics major is in our project-based curriculum that draws on our partnerships with local technology employers to give you meaningful professional experiences. In addition to providing opportunities to work on real industry problems, our partner businesses provide crucial internships, which are often pathways to permanent employment.
- Rewarding undergraduate research experiences
- Complementary to other disciplines for highly marketable double major combinations
- Stellar track record of career success among graduates
Hanna Sihler ’18
Analytical and critical thinking are the most important skills that I gained through my studies in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. It is easy to know what the problem is, but it’s trickier to break it down into solvable parts and find the best way to solve it. After taking math classes, where I had to always be thinking analytically and critically, I found it easier to apply those skills to out-of-classroom concepts. I’ve found this background to be extremely valuable in my career as a soft test engineer at Idexx.
With the outlook for computer science job growth at a staggering 15%, a rate faster than the average job growth for all occupations, I truly believe UNE’s curriculum for the Computer Science minor will set students with a fantastic foundation for rewarding careers in technology. It did for me!
What will you study? Applied Mathematics Degree Curriculum Overview
B.S. in Applied Mathematics Courses
There are many ways you can navigate this major. In addition to foundational mathematics, such as calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations, coursework includes:
- Network Theory and Modeling
- Statistical Modeling
- Programming
- Applied Mathematics Research
Curriculum
| CAS Core Requirements | Credits |
|---|---|
| Total Credits | 42 |
| Program Required Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| MAT 150 – Statistics for Life Sciences | Credits Fulfilled by Core Requirements |
| MAT 190 – Calculus I | 4 |
| MAT 195 – Calculus II | 4 |
| MAT 200 – Calculus III | 4 |
| MAT 212 – Discrete Mathematics | 3 |
| MAT 220 – Linear Algebra | 3 |
| MAT 225 – Computer Programming w/MATLAB or DSC 225 – Programming I | 3 |
| MAT 315 – Applied Mathematics with Differential Equations | 3 |
| MAT 321 – Applied Statistics | 3 |
| MAT 323 – Applied Regression Analysis | 3 |
| MAT 400 – Real Analysis or MAT 405 – Introduction to Numerical Analysis | 3 |
| MAT 480 – Mathematics Research Seminar or MAT 490 – Topics in Mathematics | 3 |
| Program Specific Electives* | 6–8 |
| Total Credits | 42–48 |
| Open Elective Courses (as needed to reach 120 credits) | Variable |
| Minimum Total Required Credits | 120 |
|---|
*Mathematics and/or Science electives at 300-level or above.
Students wishing to pursue teacher certification in Math can complete a double major with Applied Mathematics and Middle and Secondary Education or a major in Middle and Secondary Education and a concentration in Applied Mathematics. For more information, see the Middle and Secondary Education catalog page.
Students in this major can participate in the pre-health graduate school preparation tracks.
To learn more about the program visit the Academic Catalog.
We also offer a minor in Applied Mathematics.
Secondary Education with Mathematics Certification
If you are interested in teaching high school mathematics, you can complete a double major in Applied Mathematics and Secondary Education or a major in Secondary Education and a concentration in Mathematics. For more information, see our Education programs.
Double Majors
If you want to double major, you will find that an Applied Mathematics major complements many science, health sciences, and business majors, as mathematics is increasingly used in these areas of study.
Career Paths for Applied Mathematics Majors
Your knowledge of mathematical theory, your skills in analysis and technology, and your on-the-job experience acquired through internships will all add up a rewarding career that will put your passion for mathematics to work for you.
Our graduates have pursued many fascinating careers, including:
- Business analyst
- Healthcare analytics specialist
- Actuary
- Bioinformatics specialist
- Computer Programmer
- Statistical consultant
- Secondary Math Instructor
Career Advising for B.S. in Applied Mathematics Students
Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.
Beyond the Classroom
Math Club
The Math Club provides activities and events for those interested in solving problems and learning about how math is used in other disciplines. You are welcome to join or visit one of our meetings no matter what your major is. In addition to bi-weekly meetings, the Math Club provides activities and events for those interested in solving problems and learning about how math is used in other disciplines.
Experiential Learning in the Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Mathematics Program
At UNE, we know that mathematics isn’t just about knowing — it’s about doing. Whether you’re in class working on a project for a local business, conducting your own original research, or getting on-the-job experience at an internship, hands-on learning always factors into the equation.
Research
Our students have explored a wide variety of research subjects, often combing their interests in mathematics with other passions. Past projects include combinatorial games, data analysis in political science, gender differences in mathematical learning, analysis of DNA sequences with a signal processing approach, and many others.
Potential collaborative research projects
- Tree-like Polyphenyl Systems
- Gene network identification using Max Flow/Min Cut
- Applications of Google’s PageRank algorithm to infectious disease transmission networks
- Vibrational spectra of highly symmetric graphs
- Games on graphs
- Food webs and competition graphs
- Attack and defense in graphs modeling international relations/Roman Defenses
- Conway’s Game of Life on alternate graphs
- Minimizing luck in games of low chance
- Modeling and optimizing organ exchange and donor systems
- Max/Min determinants of certain (0,1) matrices with fixed row sums
- Max/Min norms and condition numbers for matrices with prescribed determinant and Frobenius norm
- Rank invariant, the eigen-invariant, or the row (column) spaces invariant linear maps
- Effectiveness of technology in the classroom
- Inquiry-based learning in Pre-Calculus and Calculus courses
- Formative assessment for understanding concepts in secondary mathematics
Internships for Applied Mathematics Majors
A wide array of exceptional internship opportunities exist at institutions including:
- NASA
- The National Security Agency
- Unum
- Local technology employers
For more information visit the Academic and Career Advising Center.
Apply Today
Applied Mathematics FAQ
What is an applied mathematics major?
Applied mathematics is all about using math to understand and describe the real world. Students use math techniques to learn more about many different subjects. If you really like math and are curious about how things work in the world, studying applied mathematics could be a great choice for you.
UNE offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Applied Mathematics in Maine and provides a well-rounded, liberal arts-based education focused on the application of the mathematical sciences for inquiry and problem-solving. The major integrates technology and theoretical mathematics, emphasizing computer-based modeling and statistical methods that translate to a wide range of disciplines and career opportunities.
Students interested in a double major will find Applied Mathematics to be an excellent complement to majors in the natural sciences and other fields, as many fields continue to experience an increasing reliance on mathematics.
Learn more about the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Applied Mathematics at UNE
What can you do with an applied mathematics degree?
Many applied mathematics careers involve data analysis and trend recognition, while others center on creating infrastructure, entertainment, and modern communication systems.
These broad categories can be further divided into various subcategories, and since they all rely on math, there's often overlap between them. Here are some of these subcategories of math degrees:
- Data and analysis
- Software development and digital design
- Finance
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Economics
An applied mathematics degree forms a solid base for students aspiring to pursue advanced studies in fields like public health, biomathematics, or operations research. If you plan to teach at the college level or specialize in applied mathematics, graduate school is essential, and it's advisable for most students pursuing such specialties.
UNE students who have graduated with a B.S. in Applied Mathematics have pursued many fascinating careers as business analysts, healthcare analytics specialists, actuaries, bioinformatics specialists, computer programmers, statistical consultants, and secondary math instructors. The program also prepares students for advanced study in the applied mathematical sciences.
UNE students can work with our Academic and Career Advising Center. It doesn’t matter if you have a clear career goal or just a general interest in a field.
How long does it take to major in applied mathematics?
It usually takes four years of full-time study to earn a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics.
UNE’s B.S. in Applied Mathematics requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. This includes:
- 42 credits of College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) core curriculum
- 6+ Minimum flexible required credits
- 67+ Minimum program credits
- Open elective classes as needed to reach 120 credits
How to get a degree in applied mathematics?
Students with strong math skills and diverse interests are often drawn to applied mathematics degrees because of the opportunities for future careers in quantitative fields. Applied mathematics programs offer students a structured curriculum that lays the groundwork for a smooth transition, leading to careers in quantitative fields or advanced studies in applied mathematics. There are four types of applied mathematics degrees:
- Associate’s – Typically completed in two years
- Bachelor’s – Typically completed in four years
- Master's – Typically completed in one to three years after obtaining a bachelor’s degree
- Doctorate – Requires four years or more including required coursework, thesis, or dissertation after a bachelor’s or master’s degree
UNE does not require submission of ACT/SAT scores to apply for undergraduate admission. Applied mathematics is one of five majors in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.
As a UNE math major in Maine, you'll become skilled in mathematical and computer-based modeling for analysis, prediction, and decision-making. You'll also receive training in lab techniques, instrumentation, and computational tools. Through internships and faculty research, you'll gain practical experience solving real-world problems.
Should I major in applied mathematics?
If you are good with numbers, excel in mathematics, and understand that a math degree can open doors to numerous career opportunities, you might wonder how to determine the most suitable mathematics degree path for your interests and aspirations. An applied mathematics degree differs from traditional mathematics because it teaches students how to utilize mathematical concepts and methods to address real-world problems.
Many math-minded students with diverse interests at UNE are drawn to applied mathematics degrees because of their career prospects in quantitative fields. As they advance in their studies, some discover a passion for the subject and wish to pursue graduate studies. UNE’s applied mathematics program in Maine offers a structured path to help students prepare for this transition, whether it's entering a quantitative profession straight out of college or pursuing advanced studies in applied mathematics. Additionally, UNE offers a Minor in Applied Mathematics.
What colleges offer the best applied mathematics degree program for me?
There are many factors to consider when choosing which college or university has the best applied mathematics degree program for you:
Faculty
When selecting an applied mathematics program, evaluate faculty expertise and research interests to ensure they align with your enthusiasm for mathematical applications and are in line with your academic and career goals.
The Mathematical Sciences faculty at UNE mentor student research and are active in original scholarship. Through consulting and research collaborations, they are a resource for students and faculty across the University.
Meet faculty and professional staff in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Additionally, UNE boasts small class sizes. Overall, we have a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio and an average class size of 20.
Learn some quick facts about UNE
Curriculum
When choosing an applied mathematics curriculum, look at available courses, specialization choices, and their alignment with your academic and career aspirations to find the best fit.
UNE’s applied mathematics degree program offers a flexible curriculum, allowing for double majors. If you're considering a double major, an Applied Mathematics major pairs well with science, health sciences, and business majors, as math plays a growing role in these fields.
We also offer Applied Mathematics majors interested in teaching high school mathematics in Maine to complete a double major in Applied Mathematics and Secondary Education or a major in Secondary Education and a concentration in Mathematics.
Learn more about the School of Education at UNE
There are many ways that UNE students can navigate the applied mathematics major. In addition to foundational mathematics, such as calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations, coursework includes:
- Network Theory and Modeling
- Statistical Modeling
- Programming
- Applied Mathematics Research
Learn more about the full Applied Mathematics curriculum
Career goals
When deciding on the right applied mathematics degree program, take your career goals into account. Evaluate the program's specializations, internship, and research opportunities, and how well they match your long-term objectives.
UNE's Applied Mathematics program equips students with quantitative and analytical skills useful in various fields like science, business, finance, health, government, and more. It also prepares students for advanced studies in applied mathematics.
Our program excels through its hands-on curriculum, which includes partnerships with local tech companies to offer you valuable practical experiences. Alongside tackling real-world industry challenges, these partnerships also offer internships that can lead to permanent job opportunities.
UNE offers Career Advising to applied mathematics majors to plan their next step. 95% of undergraduates are employed or engaged in ongoing higher education within one year of graduating — 2016-2022 graduate surveys.
Learn more about Career Advising at UNE
Location and environment
Determine whether you wish to remain in your state or move out of state. Assess whether the student and faculty community will provide the inspiration and intellectual stimulation you are looking for.
UNE is Maine’s largest private university. We have three unique campuses that provide diverse learning opportunities. In Maine, two campuses in Biddeford and Portland offer renowned undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Additionally, our Tangier, Morocco campus hosts a unique semester abroad program for UNE students.
Learn more about UNE’s campuses and how you can visit us
Beyond the classroom, UNE’s Math Club provides activities and events for those interested in solving problems and learning about how math is used in other disciplines. In addition to bi-weekly meetings, the Math Club provides activities and events for those interested in solving problems and learning about how math is used in other disciplines.
Learn more about student clubs and activities at UNE
UNE’s Global Education Program provides the opportunity for all students to study abroad. Our program offers English-language courses in the sciences, humanities, business, and the arts, as well as language study in Arabic, Spanish, and French.
Learn more about studying abroad at UNE
Financial aid
Take into account whether the institution you're considering offers financial assistance or scholarships to help fund your educational pursuit.
At UNE undergraduate education we strive to make education affordable. Our tuition is 16% below the average tuition for private universities in New England. Plus, all incoming full-time undergraduate students at UNE will receive Merit Scholarships in amounts from $5,000 to $22,000 per year.
Learn more about grants and scholarships available to students at UNE