The Applied Mathematics concentration consists of a broad undergraduate education in the mathematical sciences, especially in those subjects that have proved vital to an understanding of problems arising in other disciplines, and in some specific area where mathematical methods have been substantively applied. For concentrators, a core learning objective is building and demonstrating foundational knowledge in computation, probability, discrete, and continuous mathematics through the successful completion of the foundation and breadth courses.
Applied Mathematics is a quantitative liberal arts degree. Students are drawn to Applied Mathematics by the flexibility it offers in learning about how to apply mathematical ideas to problems drawn from different fields, while remaining anchored to empirical data that drive these questions. Educational activities have particularly close links to Harvard’s efforts in Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, and Statistics. Harvard College students are eligible to apply for an AB/SM degree program. Information on the requirements for the SM degree can be found on the S.M. requirements page. Each applicant must submit a complete application to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).
Harvard School of Engineering offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Applied Mathematics. Doctoral students may earn the masters degree en route to the Ph.D. Students are drawn to Applied Mathematics by the flexibility it offers in learning about how to apply mathematical ideas to problems drawn from different fields, while remaining anchored to empirical data that drive these questions. Research and educational activities have particularly close links to Harvard’s efforts in Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, and Statistics. Graduates go on to a range of careers in industry, academics, to professional schools in business, law, medicine, among others. All Ph.D.s are awarded through the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.