Building on the success of the university’s mathematics major, Denison’s new applied mathematics major provides a path for students interested in careers in finance, actuarial science, and data-driven fields, as well as graduate education in areas like statistics, data science, and operations research. Applied mathematics is available to students beginning fall 2022.
“The applied mathematics major is another instance of Denison’s capacity to engage the broad powers of a liberal arts education in solving current issues,” says Denison University President Adam Weinberg. “Students in the applied mathematics major learn the foundational knowledge they need, as well as strategies, tactics, and experience in applying their math knowledge to real-world problems. This is one more way in which we equip our graduates to find success and meaning in their careers.”
“By its nature, applied mathematics is defined not by what it is but by what it does,” says Associate Professor May Mei, chair of Denison’s mathematics department. “Applied mathematics students learn rigorous thinking and precision in speech and writing, while focusing on mathematical modeling and statistics as they approach higher levels of knowledge. In modeling and statistics courses, students create mathematical representations of real-world scenarios to make predictions or provide insight.”
“Mathematical acuity is needed in every industry.” she adds. “Given our students’ career paths, it makes sense to offer more courses that mesh with their mathematical proclivities and better equip them to solve problems in every profession.”
In recent years, Denison has created almost a dozen new academic programs, including data analytics; data for political research; digital humanities; environmental sciences; financial economics; global commerce; global health; health, exercise, and sport studies; journalism; Middle East and North African studies; and politics and public affairs. Each of these new programs is founded on the depth and breadth of a liberal arts education, which encourages interdisciplinary thinking and applied knowledge.