Mathematics | Applied mathematical biology option

The B.S. in mathematics, applied mathematical biology option is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience. Required coursework includes:

• Calculus, ordinary differential equations and linear algebra
• Advanced math courses like mathematical biology, probability theory, stochastic models and partial differential equations
• At least one computer science or programming course using SAS, Python or R programming
• Biology electives that allow you to strengthen your biological background in the areas most relevant to your interests and goals
• Math electives like complex variables and mathematical modeling that allow you to customize your degree to your own interests and career goals

View a sample four-year plan

Explore program requirements in the University Catalog

Research opportunities

Over 75% of undergraduate students in the College of Science do undergraduate research, often for academic credit or as paid research assistants. This allows students to gain experience, apply what they learn in the classroom and get a behind-the-scenes look at how academic research works. It all starts by doing well in classes, finding faculty whose research interests you and asking if you can get involved. Faculty projects taking place in the Department of Mathematics and Statistical Science include:

• Using machine learning to solve classification problems in medicine, epidemiology and climate research
• Applying mathematics models to materials science to fuel the development of new technologies
• Leveraging computing to foster mathematical creativity and learning in undergraduate linear algebra courses
• Researching the implications of artificial intelligence on mathematics education and research

Hands-on learning

• Put your mathematical knowledge into practice through hands-on learning and real-world experiences at University of Idaho. You can work alongside faculty on mathematical research, either for academic credit or as a paid research assistant and gain valuable experience solving authentic problems. You can also earn money while building your communication and teaching skills as a tutor in the Math Assistance Center or Statistics Assistance Center, helping students succeed in introductory mathematics and statistics courses. For students who enjoy challenging mathematical problems, the highly competitive and prestigious William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition offers an opportunity to test your skills and prepare alongside other students through a for-credit academic course. Across the curriculum, faculty use research-backed teaching approaches, including the Moore method and active learning to engage you in the learning process. In computational and statistics courses, you’ll also gain hands-on experience with programming, statistical and modeling software, developing technical skills you can apply to future research, careers and graduate study.

Clubs

• Math Club – Join fellow math enthusiasts from different majors to solve interesting problems, explore current advancements in mathematics, hear about mathematical research advancements and just have a good time. Pizza is often provided at club meetings and events.
• College of Science Ambassadors – Expand the world of science by supporting current and prospective College of Science students, representing the college at recruiting events, and planning fun on-campus events for current science majors.
• Women in Science Society – Attend workshops, networking sessions and social events that promote the academic and professional success of collegiate women pursuing degrees in the sciences.
• Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) – Participate in professional development activities that help promote diversity in STEM by creating spaces in which everyone is welcome and diverse voices, experiences and talents are celebrated.
• Pi Mu Epsilon – Become a member of the Idaho Alpha chapter of this national honor society that is dedicated to the promotion of mathematics and recognition of students who successfully pursue mathematical understanding. A new class is invited and inducted each year, based on academic performance.
• Pi Day Celebration – The longest-running event for the Department of Mathematics and Statistical Science, our Pi Day Celebration is approaching its 25th year. Join us to celebrate Pi Day in March, where we give away hundreds of slices of free pie and host an Integration Bee where you can win prizes and bragging rights by solving calculus integrals. You can also add to a paper chain displaying the digits of pi. It’s already long enough to wrap around our ballroom multiple times!

While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:

• Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
• Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
• Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.

If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.

Recognized STEM Program

This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.

Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes

Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.

Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.