Applied Mathematics at UCSC: What's it like?

Hi everyone! I'm seriously considering UC Santa Cruz for Applied Mathematics and I'm curious about the program. What are the highlights of studying Applied Math there? How's the curriculum, faculty, and resources at UCSC?

Hi! It's great you're considering UC Santa Cruz (UCSC) for Applied Mathematics. UCSC is known for its strong math programs, which provide a well-rounded education in both theoretical and practical aspects of the subject. Here are a few highlights of studying Applied Math at UCSC:

1. Curriculum: The Applied Mathematics curriculum at UCSC is designed to give students a strong foundation in mathematical theory along with the tools to apply that theory to real-world problems. Core courses cover topics like linear algebra, differential equations, and numerical analysis, while electives provide an opportunity to explore areas like mathematical modeling, optimization, and computational methods. This balance of theory and application helps prepare students for various career paths or further study in graduate programs.

Additionally, the program is known to be highly interdisciplinary - it's even housed within the Baskin School of Engineering, so you'll assuredly be able to personalize your coursework to your particular interests in the field of applied mathematics.

2. Faculty: UCSC's math department faculty is composed of experienced and accomplished professors who are active in research, ranging from computational mathematics to mathematical physics and modeling. This means students get to learn from well-respected experts in their fields, who are often eager to engage with students and provide guidance. Faculty members are also involved in interdisciplinary research across the campus, which helps provide a broader understanding and opportunities for collaboration.

3. Research opportunities: One of the benefits of studying at UCSC is the availability of research opportunities for undergraduate students. There are several ongoing research projects within the Applied Mathematics program, allowing students to get hands-on experience working with faculty and potentially contribute to published research.

4. Resources: UCSC offers a variety of resources to support Applied Mathematics students, including Drop-in Mathematics Tutoring, and the Data Science Slugs, a club where you can connect with other students who share your interests, and potentially even professionals currently working in the field of applied mathematics as well. Additionally, the campus library has an extensive collection of mathematics-related books and journals to support your studies.

5. Campus environment: UCSC's location, surrounded by redwood forests and overlooking the Monterey Bay, creates an inspiring environment for academic and personal growth. The campus is known for its supportive community and a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, both of which contribute to a stimulating learning environment.

Overall, the Applied Mathematics program at UCSC offers a solid foundation in math, a wide range of electives, and access to valuable resources. By pursuing Applied Mathematics at UCSC, you'll have the opportunity to learn from experienced professors and engage in cutting-edge research, all within a beautiful and inspiring campus setting.

If you do end up applying to this excellent program, and are looking for tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle UC Santa Cruz's application essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-california-essays. Especially when applying to a well-regarded program like Applied Mathematics, you want to be sure you're conveying your strengths in as many ways as possible, and the essays in particular are often just the thing that distinguishes one talented applicant from another.

Best of luck with your college applications, and future pursuits in the mesmerizing field of applied mathematics!