Applied Mathematics

Graduate Degrees in Applied Mathematics

With internationally recognized faculty and a strong commitment to its graduate program, the Department of Applied Mathematics at CU Boulder strives to provide graduate students with a high-quality education and training in applied mathematics while preparing them for careers in industry, laboratories and academia.

The Department of Applied Mathematics offers three graduate programs: the Professional Master of Science, designed for those with a working knowledge of mathematics; the Master of Science, open only to current degree-seeking students at CU Boulder; and the Doctor of Philosophy.

Most graduate students enter the program with either a teaching assistantship or a research assistantship.

Top 15 ranked graduate program in the nation (U.S. News & World Report, 2022)

#2 best applied mathematics school in Colorado (College Factual, 2023)

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Applied Mathematics

Applied Mathematics

Professional Master of Science

30 credit hours
This program works well for those already working and practicing mathematics who wish to extend their knowledge and skill.
Our unique program allows students to complete a Culminating Experience project (CE) instead of a master’s thesis. There are two CE options for students to consider: (1) project or (2) internship/fellowship.
We offer students two degree specializations to refine and develop their academic path: statistics and data science specialization and customized specialization.

GRE/GMAT Requirements

None

Application Deadlines

Consideration for fall admittance
- Early decision application deadline: Jan. 15 for international applicants
- Early decision application deadline: Feb. 1 for domestic applicants
- Official application deadline: April 15
Consideration for spring admittance
- Official application deadline: Oct. 1

For program details, review the course catalog for the Professional MS in applied mathematics.

Master of Science

30 credit hours
There are two courses of action for graduate students who are looking to graduate with a master's degree: (1) thesis option and (2) nonthesis option.
We offer students two degree specializations to refine and develop their academic path: statistics and data science specialization, and customized specialization.
The MS degree is available only to current degree-seeking students at CU Boulder who are in the applied mathematics PhD program, another CU Boulder PhD program or the applied mathematics Bachelor's–Accelerated Master's. (Those who are not currently attending CU Boulder should apply to the Applied Mathematics-Professional Master of Science (MSAM) program.)
Prerequisites for graduate study in applied mathematics include three semesters of calculus and a course in differential equations and linear algebra. The grade point average for mathematics and applied mathematics must be 3.00 or better.

GRE/GMAT Requirements

None

Application Deadlines

Consideration for fall admittance
- Early decision application deadline: Jan. 15 for international applicants
- Early decision application deadline: Feb. 1 for domestic applicants
- Official application deadline: April 15
Consideration for spring admittance
- Official application deadline: Oct. 1

For program details, review the course catalog for the MS in applied mathematics.

Doctor of Philosophy

60 credit hours
A grade of B- or higher must be attained in each course. PhD students must maintain a grade point average of 3.00 or better each semester.
Dissertation defense: The exam will consist of a presentation by the student on their research proposal, followed by a questioning period of up to one hour. The presentation portion is open to all faculty and students in the program.

GRE/GMAT Requirements

None

Application Deadlines

Consideration for fall admittance
- Official application deadline: Dec. 1 for all applicants

For program details, review the course catalog for the PhD in applied mathematics.

Research Areas

Computational Mathematics
Mathematical Biology
Mathematical Geosciences
Applied Nonlinear PDEs and Dynamics
Statistics and Data Science
Stochastic Processes and Applications

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

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Graduate Degrees in Applied Mathematics

Degree Types