Physics is a common example of applied mathematics.
Applied mathematics is a general term used to describe the study of mathematics as it applies to real life. Physics, engineering, architecture, finance, game theory and probability are all examples of applied mathematics, because they take mathematical theories and equations and apply them to problems in the physical world. Applied mathematics is taught at many universities in conjunction with other interdisciplinary studies, using mathematics as a method for studying another discipline.
Engineering and Physics
Applied mathematics at many universities is taught with a particular specialization that emphasizes physics and engineering. For example, Cornell University offers applied mathematics courses in mathematical physics, and Brown University offers applied mathematics courses that emphasize engineering. Both universities have an applied mathematics department that reaches out to other departments in order to concretize the theoretical ideas of mathematics in a real life problem or situation.
Probability and Statistics
Sociologists and anthropologists use applied mathematics to analyze population trends. For example, a course might study network theory by using applied mathematics, which would entail studying how information travels by using mathematical theorems and algorithms. Probability theory and numerical analysis are also common topics in applied mathematics. Studying applied mathematics in sociology and anthropology gives students an edge over other students in the field, because the students who study applied mathematics have a more thorough analysis of how studies, surveys and data are gathered and presented.
Theory
A lot of applied mathematics studies theory, although the objective of a lot of applied mathematics is to move from theory to real life. Theoretical applied mathematics takes theories and, instead of using them to analyze real life, compares them to real life findings in order to see whether or not they prove to be true. For example, Columbia University offers courses in applied functional analysis and approximation theory, both of which aim to analyze the intersection of theories and real life findings.
Biology and Chemistry
Applied mathematics becomes increasingly important for science students, who must use physics and mathematics to supplement the study of biology and chemistry. Mathematical biology, introduction to biophysical modeling and applied chemical analysis are all examples of courses that use applied mathematics to study these disciplines. Most rigorous college pre-med programs require courses in applied mathematics. These classes may be taken in an applied mathematics department or use applied mathematics in a course for another department.
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