Applied mathematicians work on a wide variety of topics such as how to construct methods for multicriteria decision making (requiring discrete mathematics and statistics), predicting how the financial markets will behave (requiring probability/statistics, analysis, optimization), and analyzing how liquid flows around solids (requiring expertise in computational methods and analysis). Students with an applied mathematics background are prepared for careers in the insurance industry, electronics and computer manufacturers, logistics companies, pharmaceutical firms, and more.

Graduates of the Applied Mathematics programme at Illinois Institute of Technology work in financial and insurance companies as analysts, computer companies as programmers and hardware developers, and in many different fields as researchers, as well as academia. They have have gone to excellent graduate schools in mathematics (pure, applied, & financial), physics, design, accounting, and M.B.A. programs.

Specializations 

Applied Mathematics allows maximum flexibility; students majoring in Applied Mathematics have ample opportunity to assemble a portfolio of courses that will satisfy both intellectual needs and career preparation. There is a wide variety of courses offered, with strengths in contemporary topics in applied mathematics, loosely organized under the four subject headings: applied analysis, computational mathematics, discrete applied mathematics, and stochastics (including statistics, mathematical finance, and stochastic analysis). If desired, a student can focus on a "Specialization" (described below).

A minor is required, which gives students an area of focus where mathematics may be applied. It consists of five or more related courses in an area outside of Applied Mathematics. With a minor in computer science, business, or one of the engineering areas, for example, the student will be well prepared to enter the job market in business or government.

Students will also be prepared to continue in graduate school. There is also the option of a co-terminal degree, where a student graduates with a B.S. and an M.S. at the same time.