Overview
The Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics is devoted to the study and development of mathematical disciplines especially oriented to the complex problems of modern society. A broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum emphasizes several branches of applied mathematics: Probability, the mathematical representation and modeling of uncertainty; Statistics, the analysis and interpretation of data; Operations Research, the design, analysis, and improvement of actual operations and processes; Optimization, the determination of best or optimal decisions; Discrete Mathematics, the study of finite structures, arrangements, and relations; and Scientific Computation, which includes all aspects of numerical computing in support of the sciences.
Probability and Statistics is treated in the curriculum as a single general area, dealing in a unified way with theory and methodology for probabilistic representation of chance phenomena, applications of stochastic modeling to physical and social sciences, formulation of statistical models, fitting of statistical models to data, and interpretation of data. Operations Research and Optimization represents a second general area, dealing in unified fashion with the application of optimization theory, mathematical programming, computer modeling, stochastic modeling, and game theory to planning and policy problems such as scheduling, allocation of resources, and facility location. Discrete Mathematics includes the traditional themes of graph theory and combinatorics, as well as newer topics arising from modern technological and theoretical developments. The fourth general area, Computational and Applied Mathematics, covers topics pertaining to computing, numerical analysis, advanced matrix analysis, and mathematical modeling.
In its fundamental role of representing applied mathematics at Johns Hopkins University, the Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics is complemented by the Department of Mathematics, with its differing emphasis. Located in the School of Engineering, the Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics fulfills a special integrative role, stemming in part from the affinity of engineers for applied mathematics and in part from the increasing need for interaction between science and engineering. The mathematical sciences, especially the mathematics of modeling, provide a common language and tools through which engineers can develop closer alliances and cooperation with other scientists.
The department’s degree programs include foundational and introductory course work drawing from all areas of the curriculum, along with specialized course work in areas such as probability, statistics, operations research, and optimization. Students, in consultation with their advisers, may develop challenging individual programs. The department emphasizes mathematical reasoning, mathematical modeling, abstraction from the particular, and innovative application, all in a problem-oriented setting. The aim is to prepare graduates for professional careers in the mathematical sciences and related areas, in academic institutions as well as in governmental, industrial, and research organizations.
The undergraduate major in Applied Mathematics and Statistics leads to the B.A. and B.S. degrees. The graduate program leads to the M.A., M.S.E., and Ph.D. degrees. In addition, under a combined bachelor’s/master’s program, exceptionally able undergraduates may be admitted early to simultaneous graduate work.