Master's Degree in Applied Mathematics
This program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to broaden and deepen their knowledge of mathematics with an emphasis on those areas that have been most important in science and engineering. The student will also examine, through seminars and case studies, examples of significant applications of mathematics to other areas. This expanded base of knowledge, together with extensive experience in problem solving, should prepare the student for further studies leading to the Ph.D. degree or for immediate employment in many areas of industry and government.
4+1 Accelerated Master's Program
Current Tulane undergraduate students can earn this M.S. degree with just one additional year of study. This accelerated program allows you to count graduate-level courses toward both your B.S. and M.S. degrees, providing a fast track to an advanced credential.
What You'll Learn
The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Applied Mathematics at Tulane University provides rigorous training in mathematical modeling, differential equations, numerical methods, and scientific computing. The program emphasizes the interplay between advanced mathematical theory and real-world applications in science, engineering, and technology. Students develop strong analytical and computational skills that prepare them for doctoral research or applied careers in industry, government, and research laboratories.
The MS graduate advisor in Applied Mathematics will work closely with each student to design a course of study that fits their academic preparation and career aspirations.
Research
Students in the Applied Mathematics program engage with research that bridges rigorous mathematical theory and real-world application, spanning differential equations, scientific computing, optimization, and mathematical modeling. Through seminars, case studies, and hands-on projects like the required Reading and Research course, students examine how mathematics is used to tackle significant problems in science and engineering. This research experience, whether pursued through the thesis track or through applied coursework, builds the analytical and computational foundation needed for further doctoral study or research-driven careers in industry and government.
Meet Our Faculty
The Applied Mathematics program is guided by a faculty whose expertise spans differential equations, scientific computing, mathematical modeling, and statistics, ensuring students learn from researchers actively working at the intersection of theory and application. Faculty work closely with students throughout the program, from helping design an individualized course of study to advising research projects and theses. This close mentorship, paired with faculty engagement in ongoing research, gives students direct exposure to how mathematical tools are applied to real scientific and engineering problems.
Curriculum Requirements
A graduating master’s student in Applied Mathematics will have a strong foundation in analysis, probability/statistics, differential equations, and numerical computation, as well as advanced knowledge in specialized areas of modern applied mathematics. The program emphasizes mathematical modeling, algorithmic thinking, and the application of theoretical tools to real-world scientific and engineering problems.
Students design their coursework plan in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) and the Graduate Studies Committee (GSC) to ensure timely progress and compliance with School of Science and Engineering (SSE) policies.
Career Benefits and Pathways
Graduates of the M.S. in Applied Mathematics program are well prepared for doctoral studies in applied mathematics, scientific computing, engineering, and related quantitative fields. They are also equipped for professional positions involving modeling, simulation, optimization, and data-driven decision-making, as well as careers in software development, quantitative analysis, operations research, and machine learning. Beyond these paths, graduates find technical and research roles in industry, government agencies, and national laboratories.
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FAQs
Applied mathematics is the use of mathematical theory, methods, and computational tools to model, analyze, and solve real-world problems in science, engineering, and technology. It combines rigorous training in areas like differential equations, analysis, and numerical methods with practical problem-solving skills used across research, industry, and government.
To enter the program, the student should have a Bachelor's degree in mathematics or a related field and have completed undergraduate courses in Linear Algebra and Differential Equations. Students without these prerequisites may take them without credit toward the M.S. degree. Partial tuition waivers may be available to qualified students.
1. Non-Thesis Option (default): Requires 30 credits (ten graduate courses) at the 6000/7000 level, including all six required courses and four electives.
2. Thesis Option: Requires 24 credits (eight graduate courses) at the 6000/7000 level, including five required courses and three electives, plus a written thesis and oral defense before a three-member committee.
(see the Mathematics Graduate Handbook for further details)
- Following SSE policy, all graduate students in the school must maintain a minimum 3.0 (B) GPA.
- Grades: One B– triggers probation consideration; two B– grades or one grade below B– results in probation and possible dismissal. No course with a grade below B– counts toward the degree.
- Typically, up to 6 transfer credit hours may be applied toward the M.S. degree, consistent with SSE policy. Additional transfer credit hours (up to 6) may be applied with GSC approval.
- Residency: Students must maintain continuous registration until the degree is conferred.
- Academic Conduct: All students must adhere to the Unified Code of Graduate Student Academic Conduct.
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, applied mathematics, engineering, physics, computer science, or a closely related discipline. Admission is competitive and based on academic preparation, GPA, and foundational coursework.
Minimum Requirements:
1. GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
2. Preparation in:
- Calculus and Multivariable Calculus
- Differential Equations
- Linear Algebra
- At least one advanced mathematics course (for example, Real Analysis, Numerical Analysis, Probability, or Partial Differential Equations)
Application Materials:
- Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
- Personal statement outlining academic interests and goals
- At least one letter of recommendation (optional)
4+1 Tulane Applicants:
- Minimum 3.5 GPA and completion of the relevant mathematics and applied mathematics coursework
Applications are submitted online through the Tulane Graduate Application System. For questions regarding admission, applicants should contact Ilianna H. Kwaske, ikwaske@tulane.edu; for academic inquiries regarding the M.S. Programs in Applied Mathematics, please contact Prof. Rafal Komendarczyk, rako@tulane.edu.
Contact Us
Ilianna H. Kwaske, Ph.D.
Associate Dean for MS Programs & Professional Education
ikwaske@tulane.edu
Sarah Berry
Director of MS and Certificate Programs
smccarty@tulane.edu
Rosie Chavez
Director of Graduate Programs
rchavez@tulane.edu
Michelle Lacey
Mathematics Department Chair & Professor
mlacey1@tulane.edu
Prof. Rafal Komendarczyk
Director of Master's Programs (Mathematics)
rako@tulane.edu