Emory University

What you'll study

The programme covers advanced topics that span both disciplines. Students engage with mathematical theory that underpins computation and with modern computational tools for analysing and implementing algorithms.

• Core mathematical foundations: real and complex analysis, abstract algebra, topology or advanced linear algebra depending on prior background and chosen pathway.
• Algorithms and theory of computation: algorithm design and analysis, computational complexity, graph algorithms.
• Numerical and applied mathematics: numerical linear algebra, computational methods for differential equations, optimisation techniques.
• Data, statistics and machine learning: statistical inference, probabilistic modelling, supervised and unsupervised learning methods.
• Systems and software engineering: data structures, software design, programming languages and practical implementation of scalable systems.
• Electives and special topics: computational biology, cryptography, high-performance computing, data visualisation, or interdisciplinary seminars tying mathematics to applied domains.
• Capstone / research: a supervised research project or applied capstone that synthesises mathematical modelling and computational implementation.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, typically in mathematics, computer science, engineering, physics or a closely related field.
• Transcripts demonstrating competency in key preparatory subjects such as calculus, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, data structures and programming.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to quantitative ability and potential for graduate study.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic background, research or career goals, and reasons for choosing Emory.
• Applicants with non-standard backgrounds may be asked to demonstrate preparation through additional coursework or bridge modules; GRE requirements vary and are considered in context of the overall application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a broad range of technical and research-oriented careers. The combination of mathematical rigour and computational skill is valued across sectors.

• Data scientist or data analyst roles in finance, healthcare, technology and consulting.
• Machine learning engineer or research scientist positions in industry labs or start-ups.
• Software engineer roles with emphasis on algorithmic performance or systems design.
• Quantitative analyst, operations research analyst or optimisation specialist.
• Further academic study at the PhD level in mathematics, computer science or interdisciplinary computational science.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers a close-knit academic environment within a strong research university and the liberal arts tradition, enabling interdisciplinary collaboration between mathematics, computer science and other fields such as public health and biology. Students benefit from faculty mentoring, opportunities to join active research groups, and access to internships and industry contacts in the Atlanta technology and healthcare ecosystem. The programme’s flexibility allows students to pursue theoretical research, applied projects, or professional pathways aligned with local and global employer needs.