Future Students

Academics

Computational Mathematics

College of Sciences


 

QUICK JUMP
  Computational Mathematics
  Core and Option Courses
  Careers in Computational Math
  Salaries
  Suggested Strengths, Interests, and Preparation
  Scholarships and Financial Aid
  Campus Organizations and Activities
  Contact Information

Computational Mathematics

Computational mathematics, an option within the mathematics major, prepares students for computer intensive applications work in business, economics, engineering, physics, biology, and social sciences. This option is also a good general background for work in the computer industry.
• Offered at WSU: Bachelor of science in mathematics with an option in computational mathematics
• Available at: Pullman

Core and Option Courses

In addition to the courses listed below, students must complete courses to meet University general education requirements and College of Sciences requirements, as well as a writing portfolio. In order to graduate, students must meet the requirements described in the appropriate, official General Catalog. (Consult with academic advisor for specific details.)

MATHEMATICS CORE COURSES
Cpt S 121—C Programming,
Math 171 & 172—Calculus I & II
Math 220—Introductory Linear Algebra
Math 273—Calculus III
Math 300—Mathematical Computing
Math 315—Differential Equations
Math 360—Probability and Statistics
or 443—Applied Probability
Math 420—Linear Algebra
Math 398—Mathematical Snapshots
Math 421—Algebraic Structures
Math 401 & 402—Introduction to Analysis I & II
Physics 201—Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Engl 402—Technical and Professional Writing
Four Math electives (consult with advisor)

COMPUTATIONAL OPTION COURSES
Cpt S 203—FORTRAN Programming
Math 364—Principles of Optimization
Math 448—Numerical Analysis
Math 416—Simulation Methods
     or 440—Applied Mathematics
     or 464—Operations Research and Game Theory
     or 340—Mathematical Modeling

NOTE: Students should consult the General Catalog for course planning and must meet course requirements as outlined in the General Catalog in order to graduate.

Careers in Computational Math

• Many organizations use computational mathematicians to make the most effective use of their computer capabilities. Common entry job titles include research analyst, systems analyst, mathematical analyst, and operations analyst. Some employers prefer hiring candidates with master’s degrees.
• Computational mathematics also provides an excellent background if students plan to work in the computer industry.

Salaries

Starting salaries for those with a bachelor’s degree in computational mathematics are usually in the range of $30,000 to $40,000.

Suggested Strengths, Interests, and Preparation

Students planning to major in mathematics at WSU should take four years of mathematics in high school through at least pre-calculus. Most mathematics majors begin with first or second semester calculus (Math 171 or 172).

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Endowed scholarships are available from the Department of Mathematics and the College of Sciences. A variety of federal, state, and University-sponsored programs, loans, grants, and scholarships are also available to assist qualified students with education costs.

Campus Organizations and Activities

• Math Club (a support group for math students that sponsors speakers, films, and other activities)
• Women in Mathematics, Science, and Engineering (a group that offers support and enrichment programs)
• The Washington State University national math modeling team
• The national Putnam mathematics competition

Contact Information
Department of Mathematics
Washington State University
PO Box 643113
Pullman, WA 99164-3113
info@math.wsu.edu
509-335-3926
 

Strengths of the Program

  • Math lab facilities include 25 networked Linux computers with software for differential equations, linear algebra, and calculus, and two PC labs containing 40 computers with math education software.
  • Students gain strong instruction in analysis/differential equations, computational math, discrete math, mathematical modeling, mathematics education, optimization, probability, and statistics.
  • Math majors assist faculty on research projects ranging from atmospheric science to genetics using the department's research-computing workstations.
  • The Owen Science and Engineering Library subscribes to more than 200 math journals, and there are 15,000 volumes in the math section of the library.
  • Our internship program places students at Boeing Corporation, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and other national labs and businesses.
  • You can join a math, science, and engineering community residence hall at WSU Pullman—share classes with your neighbors, study together, get free tutoring, and use the hall’s computer lab.
Office of Enrollment Management, PO Box 641067, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-1067, 888-GO TO WSU (888-468-6978), Contact Us