Tips for a Great Start
Degree requirements in applied and computational mathematics are intentionally kept low to maximize the flexibility of the program. Contact your advisor to talk about your options and read these tips to help you prepare for your career.
Use free electives wisely to get the strongest possible degree.
- Students are strongly encouraged to complete a minor in Computer Science.
- It is also a good idea to complete a minor in Physics or another science.
- Students hoping to go to graduate school in applied or computational mathematics should also take MA 4450 Real Analysis and MA 4330 Linear Algebra, if possible.
Get summer research experience.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) sponsors many Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programs. Students participating in such a program work on research projects and typically receive free or greatly discounted room and board, along with a stipend of $2500–$4000.
Michigan Tech faculty members also mentor student recipients of Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF), which also provides a stipend to work on a research project.
Participation in either REU or SURF is a great way to decide if you want to go to graduate school (and it looks great on a graduate school application)!
Do an internship.
If you are planning to enter the workforce upon graduation, you will be much more marketable if you do an internship. For information about internships, contact University Career Services or your advisor.
Join a professional organization.
The premier professional organization for applied mathematicians is the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM). Michigan Tech students can join SIAM for free.