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Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences ,BS

Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences, BS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences

Biology, Calculus, Computation, Computer, Data, Disease, Mathematics, Population, Risk, Simulation, analysis, approved for STEM-OPT extension, life sciences, models, statistics, theory

Do you want to help prevent disease outbreaks, disasters or addictions? We have access to more data than ever before, making math crucial to understanding and improving human safety, health and security. Learn the practical theories, models and approaches for applying math and data science to the challenges we face today.

Program description

The BS in applied mathematics for the life and social sciences is unlike any other math program. It offers a novel approach to investigating, integrating and solving problems in the physical, life and social sciences in such topics as mass violence, contagion, wildlife-human interactions and the transmission of behaviors through influence.

Degree-seekers in this program are immersed in the use of mathematical theory, modeling and computational methods while collaborating with and contributing to diverse fields such as anthropology, global health and environmental social science.

The insights and skills gained allow graduates to confidently create accurate, versatile and practical answers desperately needed in order to improve or remedy contemporary issues.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I
  • Math intensity: Substantial program math intensity substantial

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

ASU students who would like to change their major to applied mathematics for the life and social sciences are required to have a minimum cumulative ASU GPA of 3.00 based on at least 12 credit hours of ASU coursework.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available, applied mathematics for the life and social sciences students are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network.

Students also may participate in a School of Sustainability study abroad program. More information is available on the College of Global Futures study abroad website.

Career opportunities

Graduates of the program possess the quantitative, scientific and analytical skills that are critical for professionals working in the environmental, life, health, mathematical and social science fields. Nationally recognized experts ensure graduates are well equipped for prestigious career paths in government, medicine, technology, security or other fields requiring rigorous data analysis, with an insight into human behavior.

The need for scientists and professionals quantitatively trained in the life and social sciences is strong in Arizona and the nation. This program's applied use of mathematics, modeling, statistics and simulation methodologies are in high demand and provide excellent training for future academics and professionals in industries including:

  • bioinformatics
  • computational sciences
  • ecology
  • genomics
  • data mining
  • mathematical analysis
  • mathematical epidemiology
  • nonlinear dynamics
  • population dynamics
  • social science

Career example titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience, geographical location, and required advanced degrees or certifications may affect pay scales.


Career *Growth *Median salary
23.2%
$113,990
3.9%
$87,300
35.2%
$103,500
4.8%
$144,440
35.2%
$103,500
4.8%
$144,440
4.8%
$50,470
6.2%
$71,700
2.2%
$112,110
31.6%
$98,920
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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