APPLIED MATHEMATICS
“Math will rock your world.” You might think the headline came from a marketing firm hoping to lure kids to do their homework.In fact, the sentence appeared on the cover of BusinessWeek magazine. The “math” rocking the world is applied mathematics, an area of study that uses mathematics to understand how a leaf unfurls, predict when the next hurricane might hit, and sort through the information overload of the online era.
Our flexible programs allow students to concentrate in applied mathematics with a specialization in areas of application such as biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, decision and control, economics, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, geophysical sciences, mechanical engineering, physics, scientific computing, social and behavioral sciences, and statistics.
Many students prepare for graduate work either in applied mathematics or in the particular discipline in which they expect to work.
Getting Started
We suggest prospective and current students considering Applied Mathematics at Harvard take a look at our undergraduate Applied Mathematics guide (PDF). The sample schedules provide a snapshot of what to expect.Prospective Concentrators
Why study Applied Mathematics at Harvard?
The diverse intellectual community at Harvard and the links to other departments and programs provide excellent opportunities for students to participate in cutting-edge research in all areas.Can students "minor" in Applied Mathematics?
Yes. The secondary field in Mathematical Sciences is jointly sponsored by the the Mathematics Department and the Applied Mathematics concentration. Secondary fields are a new program in Harvard College. They are intended to provide the opportunity for students to pursue focused study in one area outside of the concentration, without requiring students to combine their academic interests in a joint thesis project.What are the requirements for Applied Mathematics?
The following publications describe the concentration in Applied Mathematics and its requirements.Undergraduate Programs Guide: Applied Mathematics (PDF)
Applied Mathematics Concentration Guidelines (PDF)
New Guidelines for Area D (Economics)
Mathematical Sciences (Secondary Field)
Mathematical Sciences at Harvard
current Concentrators
Official Forms
All completed forms must be returned to the Academic Office, Pierce Hall 110. (The paper forms are available from the Academic Office.)
How To Enter the Concentration (PDF)
Program of Study Form (PDF)
Program of Study Instructions (PDF)
Standards for Honors in Applied Mathematics (PDF)
Peer Concentration Counselors
Peer counseling in Applied Mathematics is available.