The Applied and Computational Mathematics (ACM) Master's program provides graduate-level education in applied mathematics. The program develops the principles of applied mathematics and statistics, and provides students with the skills to employ those principles in industrial or scientific settings. It has three central themes: general principles and theories of applied mathematics and statistics, the construction and analysis of mathematical and statistical models, and the development and efficient execution of computational mathematical algorithms. Effective use of advanced applied mathematical techniques has become increasingly important in industrial and scientific settings as the amount of sophisticated simulation software and specialized open-source packages has greatly increased. Professionals are needed to assist engineers, scientists and managers in the precise formulation of complex problems and in selecting the analytical methods and software appropriate for their solutions. These professionals should understand the algorithms underlying mathematical software and be able to implement additional mathematical algorithms knowledgeably and efficiently in the framework of existing software. Finally, these professionals need to interpret the results of computations for others. It is the goal of the program to equip students with these skills so that they will become professionals in the needed fields.
The Program
The key components of this evening/late-afternoon program involve the integration of applied mathematics, mathematical modeling, numerical analysis and statistics. The ACM program provides not only coursework in various areas of applied mathematics, but also opportunities for independent or collaborative work. These approaches to learning contribute to a student’s outlook and depth of understanding. The program supports the development and enhancement of students’ skills in high-demand industrial and scientific careers, and in other careers that primarily focus on applied mathematics. It is geared toward three groups of prospective students: individuals in established careers who want or require further training for their current positions, individuals in the workforce who wish to retrain for new career directions, in some cases preparing for a more mathematically-oriented assignment with their current employer, and recent graduates who desire a deeper understanding of applied mathematics to help in launching a career.
Admission and Prerequisites
Admission to the ACM program as a regular student requires a B.A. or a B.S. degree in mathematics, statistics, computer and information science, engineering, a physical science or a life science, earned in a program at an accredited institution with an average grade of B or better. Individuals with degrees in other fields not listed above or with grades less than a B average may be considered for conditional admission and may be required to submit evidence of potential for success in the ACM program. An entering student must have completed three courses in Calculus, including multivariate Calculus, plus an introductory course in Linear Algebra (or a combined course in Differential Equations with Linear Algebra) and an introductory course in Probability or Statistics. In exceptional cases, an applicant may be admitted without some prerequisite courses. If an applicant is admitted to the program without some prerequisite courses, the applicant must make up the missing prerequisites after entrance to the Graduate Program. However, credits received in courses elected to make up the missing prerequisites do not count toward the degree.
See the application instructions for information in how to apply.
A complete application consists of the following:
- Official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended.
- A one-page statement of purpose stating the applicant’s career goals and personal objectives in pursuing the program.
- Two letters of recommendation are required. At least one letter must address the applicant's academic background.
- Students whose native language is not English are also required to satisfy the English Language Requirements for Admission which can be found in the General Information section of this catalog.
For more information, visit the ACM website or call 313-583-6321.
Undergraduate students admitted to the Applied and Computational Mathematics 4+1 option may count 16 credits in the graduate program toward their undergraduate Mathematics degree. At least one additional year of graduate work after completing their undergraduate degree would be needed to complete the rest of the ACM's degree requirements. Undergraduate students interested in the 4+1 option are strongly encouraged to apply in their sophomore year and start the program in their junior year.
Advanced Standing
Up to 9 credit hours, or their equivalent, toward the degree may be granted by the Graduate Program Committee to a student through the transfer of credit for approved graduate-level courses. These courses must have been completed within the past five years with a grade of B or better at an accredited institution with graduate degree programs and not have been applied in whole or in part toward another degree or certificate.
Graduate credit may be transferred from other University of Michigan campuses (Flint or Ann Arbor) for up to half of the credits required for the degree.