Brigham Young University

What you'll study

The Computational Mathematics emphasis blends core mathematical foundations with coursework in numerical methods, scientific computing and mathematical modelling. You will build a strong grounding in calculus, linear algebra and differential equations, then advance to courses such as real analysis, numerical analysis, computational linear algebra, and partial differential equations. Programming and computation are integral: expect practical training in languages and tools commonly used for scientific computation (for example, Python, MATLAB and other high-level numerical libraries), algorithms and data structures, and high-performance or parallel computing concepts.

Typical components of the programme include a mathematics core, required computational mathematics and applied mathematics courses, electives that allow deeper study in areas such as optimisation, probability and statistics, dynamical systems or discrete mathematics, and a culminating senior experience. Many students undertake a senior project, capstone course or undergraduate research under faculty supervision, and there are opportunities for internships or collaborative projects with departments such as Computer Science, Engineering or the Financial Mathematics group.

• Core mathematics: multivariable calculus, linear algebra, ordinary differential equations, real analysis
• Computational and applied courses: numerical analysis, computational linear algebra, PDEs and numerical methods, scientific computing
• Programming and algorithms: data structures, numerical algorithms, software for numerical simulation
• Electives and special topics: optimisation, probability and statistics, mathematical modelling, dynamical systems
• Capstone options: senior project, research practicum, internship

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school diploma and demonstrate strong achievement in mathematics through high-school coursework. Typical preparation includes algebra, precalculus and preferably calculus; familiarity with programming is advantageous but not always required. Admission decisions at Brigham Young University consider overall academic record, strength of mathematics preparation, and other application materials as requested by the university.

International applicants must present equivalent credentials and demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests where required. Students should also be aware that BYU maintains an Honor Code and community standards that all students are expected to meet; consult the university for details on conduct and any required endorsements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a computational mathematics degree are well positioned for roles that require quantitative modelling, numerical simulation and software implementation of mathematical methods. Common career paths include:

• Data scientist or analyst, applying statistical and computational tools to extract insights from data
• Computational scientist or numerical analyst, developing and implementing algorithms for simulations in science and engineering
• Software engineer or developer with a focus on scientific computing, numerical libraries or high-performance code
• Quantitative analyst or risk modeller in finance and insurance
• Operations researcher or optimisation specialist in logistics, energy, and manufacturing
• Further study in graduate programmes in applied mathematics, computer science, engineering, statistics or related fields

Why study at Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University offers a strong undergraduate focus with accessible faculty who are active in applied and computational research. The Department of Mathematics provides a curriculum designed to balance theoretical depth with hands-on computational skills, and students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with Computer Science and Engineering departments. BYU’s location in Utah provides regional industry connections and internship opportunities in a growing technology and research community. Undergraduate students also have opportunities for mentored research, senior projects and participation in conferences, helping to prepare them for careers in industry or further graduate study.