University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in pure and applied mathematics while emphasising numerical methods, algorithms and scientific computing. Core topics typically include multivariable calculus, linear algebra, ordinary differential equations, real analysis and probability and statistics. Computational and applied courses commonly offered are numerical analysis, numerical linear algebra, mathematical modelling, scientific computing, optimisation and partial differential equations.

Students also take programming and systems courses to support computational work — examples include programming for mathematicians (Python, MATLAB or similar), data structures and algorithm design, and computational statistics. The curriculum usually allows elective choices or an emphasis sequence so students can tailor study toward data science, actuarial preparation, engineering applications or preparation for graduate study.

Most students complete a capstone experience such as a senior project, undergraduate research with a faculty mentor, or an applied practicum/internship. Coursework is complemented by opportunities to use departmental computing labs, high‑performance computing resources and software packages used in scientific and industrial settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical preparation expectations include strong performance in high school mathematics (including precalculus and, if available, calculus) and coursework in science. Admissions considers overall academic record; applicants from other institutions should provide official college transcripts.

For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required (for example recognised scores from TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt. Transfer applicants are assessed on transferable credit and GPA; placement in mathematics sequence may be determined by placement testing or departmental advising.

Career prospects

Graduates with a computational mathematics degree pursue a range of careers where quantitative skills and programming are essential. Common roles include data analyst, quantitative analyst, software developer, computational scientist, numerical modeller, and roles in finance, engineering and technology companies. Some graduates qualify for entry-level positions in government labs, research institutes or consulting firms.

Many alumni progress to professional or graduate study — master’s or PhD programmes in applied mathematics, computational science, data science, statistics, engineering or related disciplines. Those interested in education can pair the major with teacher‑licensure coursework to pursue secondary mathematics teaching.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a personalised undergraduate experience with accessible faculty, opportunities for supervised undergraduate research and small class sizes in upper-division courses. The Department of Mathematics and Statistics provides a curriculum balanced between theoretical foundations and computational practice, and students benefit from hands-on use of mathematical software and computing resources.

Located in Colorado, the university has connections to regional industry, government and research organisations that can facilitate internships and applied projects. The departmental community includes active student groups and events that support professional development, tutoring and preparation for careers or graduate study.