Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in rigorous analysis together with applied and computational techniques. You will study core topics such as ordinary and partial differential equations, numerical analysis and scientific computing, mathematical modelling, dynamical systems, and optimisation. Electives and seminars allow specialisation in areas including stochastic processes and probability, computational methods for PDEs, inverse problems, data assimilation, mathematical biology, and high-performance computing.

The degree is offered with thesis and non-thesis (project/coursework) options. Typical degree requirements include advanced coursework, a graduate seminar component, and either a research thesis supervised by a faculty advisor or a substantial applied project plus additional coursework. Students often take cross-listed courses from departments such as Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics, Physics and Atmospheric Science to support interdisciplinary applications.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mathematics, applied mathematics, engineering, physics or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• A strong academic record with demonstrated competence in undergraduate calculus, linear algebra, differential equations and one or more courses in real analysis or advanced calculus; programming experience is highly recommended.
• Application materials typically include official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can attest to your quantitative abilities.
• For international applicants, proof of English proficiency through tests such as TOEFL or IELTS is required unless exempted by the university's policies.
• GRE scores may be submitted where requested but are not universally required; consult the department for current testing policies. Relevant research experience or advanced coursework can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles that require quantitative modelling and computational expertise. Typical career paths include quantitative analyst or modeller in finance and insurance, data scientist, computational scientist in engineering and physical sciences, research scientist in national laboratories, and roles in energy, aerospace, and environmental modelling. The programme also prepares students for doctoral study if they choose an academic or industrial research career. Employers often value the combination of mathematical depth and computing skills developed at Colorado State.

Why study at Colorado State University

• Colorado State's Department of Mathematics and affiliated research groups offer active research in applied mathematics areas such as numerical analysis, dynamical systems, mathematical biology, and computational methods, enabling thesis and project opportunities with faculty experts.
• The university supports interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, statistics, atmospheric science and environmental science, giving students access to applied problems and computational resources used in industry and research.
• Located in Fort Collins with proximity to Colorado’s broader tech and research ecosystem, students can connect with regional employers, national laboratories and start-ups for internships and collaborative projects.
• Resources for graduate students include departmental seminars, computing facilities, and professional development workshops that help prepare students for careers in industry, government or academia.