Saint Michael's College

What you'll study

The Applied Mathematics programme emphasises mathematical modelling, computational methods and statistical reasoning alongside a strong foundation in core mathematics. Students take sequential courses that build from calculus and linear algebra to advanced topics and a year-long or semester-long capstone project.

• Core foundations: Calculus sequence, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations and Real Analysis to provide theoretical rigour.
• Applied and computational courses: Numerical Analysis, Scientific Computing, Mathematical Modelling, Partial Differential Equations and Optimisation, often taught with practical programming components (Python, MATLAB or similar).
• Probability and statistics: Probability Theory, Mathematical Statistics, Regression and Time Series to support data-driven applications.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Complex Variables, Dynamical Systems, Operations Research, Computational Biology or Economics electives that enable applying mathematics across fields.
• Capstone and research: A senior thesis or capstone project supervised by faculty, with opportunities to collaborate on departmental research or internships with external partners.
• Complementary skills: Coursework and workshops in scientific computing, data visualisation, version control and communication of quantitative results.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics. Typical preparation includes pre-calculus and calculus; applicants who have completed Advanced Placement, A-level or International Baccalaureate mathematics courses will be well prepared. Saint Michael's considers the whole application, including academic transcripts, teacher recommendations and personal statements.

• Academic preparation: Demonstrated proficiency in algebra, geometry and introductory calculus; additional coursework in statistics or computer science is advantageous.
• Standardised tests: SAT or ACT results may be submitted where required or desired by the applicant; policies on test submission vary and applicants should consult admissions guidance.
• Transfer and mature applicants: Transfer students should provide college transcripts and course descriptions; mature applicants are assessed on prior study and relevant experience.
• International students: Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent) may be required unless exempted by prior education in English.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Applied Mathematics from Saint Michael's are prepared for a wide range of careers that require quantitative reasoning, modelling and computational skills. Career paths typically include roles in industry, government, education and research.

• Data and analytics: Data analyst, data scientist, business analyst or quantitative analyst in firms across technology, healthcare, retail and finance.
• Engineering and technology: Modelling and simulation roles, software development, systems engineering and computational problem-solving in manufacturing, energy and tech sectors.
• Finance and actuarial: Risk analyst, actuarial trainee, investment analyst or other quantitative finance positions (many graduates pursue professional actuarial exams or further training).
• Research and graduate study: MSc or PhD programmes in mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering or related disciplines.
• Education and public sector: Secondary-school teaching, policy analysis, technical roles in government agencies and non-profits that need quantitative expertise.

Why study at Saint Michael's College

Saint Michael's College offers an applied mathematics experience within a liberal-arts environment, combining small class sizes and close faculty mentoring with opportunities for hands-on computation and collaborative projects. Students benefit from personalised advising, accessible faculty who supervise capstone and research projects, and computing facilities that support numerical and data-driven work.

• Faculty engagement: Faculty members teach both theory and applications and frequently involve students in supervised research and independent study.
• Undergraduate focus: Smaller cohorts mean more contact hours, customised feedback and opportunities to develop presentation and communication skills important for quantitative careers.
• Experiential learning: Internship connections, regional partnerships and the capstone project provide practical experience that connects coursework to real problems.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: The liberal-arts setting makes it easy to pair mathematics with fields such as computer science, economics, environmental science or biology.