Salisbury University

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in pure and applied mathematics while emphasising computational methods and scientific computing. Core topics include calculus, linear algebra, multivariable calculus and differential equations, together with courses in proofs and real analysis to develop theoretical rigour.

• Numerical analysis and scientific computing — algorithms for approximating solutions to equations, error analysis, and implementation of numerical methods.
• Mathematical modelling — techniques for constructing, analysing and validating models drawn from physics, biology, economics and engineering.
• Computational mathematics and programming — practical programming skills in languages and environments commonly used for computation (for example Python, MATLAB or similar), data structures and algorithmic thinking.
• Probability and statistics — foundations of statistical inference, stochastic processes and data analysis methods.
• Supporting subjects — courses such as discrete mathematics, numerical linear algebra, optimisation and electives in computer science or applied sciences to round out computational skills.
• Capstone or undergraduate research — a final-year project or supervised research experience applying computational techniques to a substantive mathematical problem.

Students also complete Salisbury University's general education requirements and are encouraged to take electives or a minor in computer science, physics, engineering or finance to strengthen interdisciplinary competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma. Competitive candidates will have strong preparation in mathematics, typically including algebra, precalculus and calculus where available. Prior coursework or demonstrated experience in programming is advantageous but not always required.

• Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate quantitative ability through their school record; applicants with transferable college credits in calculus or linear algebra may receive advanced standing.
• International applicants should provide evidence of academic preparation equivalent to U.S. secondary education and meet Salisbury University's general admissions requirements.
• Transfer students must submit transcripts from prior post‑secondary institutions; students with community college mathematics sequences often transfer into the programme with appropriate placement.

Career prospects

Graduates with a computational mathematics degree are prepared for roles where strong quantitative and programming skills are essential. Typical career paths include:

• Data analyst or data scientist roles in business, healthcare, government and non‑profits.
• Quantitative analyst positions in finance and risk management.
• Software developer or developer specialising in scientific computing and numerical libraries.
• Engineering and modelling roles in industry sectors such as energy, environmental science, and manufacturing.
• Further study at the graduate level in applied mathematics, statistics, computer science or related disciplines, or professional qualifications such as actuarial exams.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University offers a personalised undergraduate experience with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty in the Department of Mathematics. Students benefit from opportunities for faculty‑mentored undergraduate research and a capstone experience that emphasises applied and computational work.

• Hands‑on access to computing labs and software used in numerical analysis and data science.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration options with departments such as Computer Science, Physics and Biology to apply computational mathematics to real problems.
• Support services including academic advising, career services and internship connections in the Delmarva region and beyond to help students transition into careers or graduate study.
• A community focus with opportunities to present research and participate in honours or special programmes for high‑achieving students.