Wilmington University’s new Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics offers great versatility with options for customization, as well as valuable embedded certificates that allow students to graduate with multiple career-boosting credentials.
Data experts are needed across all industries to help leaders make informed decisions and improve efficiency. Combining advanced mathematics and statistics with data analysis and communication skillsets, the Applied Math program prepares professionals who can apply quantitative methods and processes to collect and analyze data, and then artfully communicate results to stakeholders.
Integrating curriculum taught by WilmU’s Mathematics, Business, and Technology faculty—experts who apply these concepts in their own careers—this well-rounded STEM program uses project-based learning, coupled with co-ops/internships, to help students develop skills and apply their knowledge in authentic settings.
Two concentrations and multiple embedded certificate options allow students to tailor their studies to their specific career goals.
- The Data Visualization Concentration incorporates five business analytics courses and includes three embedded certificates: Data Analytics, Data Visualization, and Applied Business Statistics.
- The Programming Concentration incorporates six computer science courses and includes two certificates: Data Analytics and Java Programming or Microsoft .NET Applications Development.
Program Chair, Dr. Diane Bansbach, notes that the Applied Math curriculum was inspired by employers in the medical, manufacturing, and business sectors, and the program will help students develop marketable analytical and quantitative skills through applied coursework and real-life contexts.
Possible Career Paths
The B.S. in Applied Mathematics has broad applications in a range of industries. Here are a few associated careers with noteworthy growth potential that are ranked highly by U.S. News and World Report.
Statisticians work to solve problems or answer questions by gathering and analyzing data. They are often charged with designing surveys, experiments, and polls to collect data, and then employing mathematical models and statistical software to perform their analysis. Statisticians must be skilled at interpreting data and reporting it to both technical and non-technical audiences in a way that makes sense and tells the “data story.”
Statisticians are in demand. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (USBLS) reports that overall employment of mathematicians and statisticians is projected to grow 31 percent from 2021 to 2031. Statisticians find employment in industries including education, government, healthcare, and research and development.
U.S. News and World Report ranks Statistician as #10 of their Best Business Jobs and #16 of their Best STEM Jobs.
Operations Research Analysts play an important role in businesses by improving planning and decision-making. They help solve problems and improve operations by examining business functions including logistics, resource allocation, production schedules, and supply chain management. Much like statisticians, they collect data and use analytical techniques such as forecasting and data mining to interpret results and help management make informed business decisions.
The USBLS projects the demand for operations research analysts should grow 23 percent from now until 2031, and U.S. News and World Report ranks Operations Research Analyst as #9 of their Best Business Jobs and #14 of their Best STEM Jobs.
With its focus on applied predictive modeling, forecasting, data mining, data visualization, and machine learning, WilmU’s B.S. in Applied Mathematics with Data Visualization concentration offers the coursework and embedded certificates to help launch a successful career as a Statistician or Operations Research Analyst.
Computer Systems Analysts work to improve organizational efficiency by analyzing the design or architecture of an organization’s computer system and making recommendations for fixes or updates. They use techniques such as data modeling to view process and data flows, and they conduct tests to analyze information and trends in the data they collect. They often work with programmers and engineers to help guide system design and installation.
The USBLS projects the demand for computer systems analysts to grow 9 percent from now until 2031, and U.S. News and World Report ranks Computer Systems Analyst as #5 of their Best Technology Jobs and #10 of their Best STEM Jobs.
The B.S. in Applied Math with Programming concentration is a fantastic degree choice for those interested in a career as a Computer Systems Analyst. Its focus on data warehousing, programming, artificial intelligence, and machine learning will equip interested students with the IT and analysis skills to pursue this career path.
With in-person and 100% online options, the B.S. in Applied Mathematics program offers convenience and flexibility in addition to its robust academics. This new program will launch in Fall 2023—apply today or request more information!
Career Data Sources: U.S. News and World Report; United States Bureau of Labor Statistics