Applied mathematics programs teach people theories and systems used in math. Students learn to use math to solve real-life problems. For example, students solve problems in engineering. They also learn to use statistics.

If you're someone who has always enjoyed math, but never knew what you could do with it for a career, you might consider applied mathematics. You can use your problem-solving skills to do just that: solve problems! These can range from figuring out energy-saving ways of supplying power to buildings to reducing foot traffic in school hallways.

Applied mathematicians use math and engineering skills to work in a variety of fields. You can work for a computer hardware company, developing faster and smaller computer chips. Or, you can work for transportation companies, determining the most efficient routes to transport cargo. You can even work in a biology laboratory, studying how bacteria grow.

In applied mathematics programs, you take a variety of math courses, ranging from calculus and statistics to advanced mathematical theory. Much of your course work will focus on using engineering models to illustrate ways to solve problems. In addition, you also take courses in computer science, because many programs use computer software to teach mathematical concepts.

Many four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in applied mathematics. Often, you minor in applied mathematics while getting your degree in math. In addition, many schools offer graduate degree programs in applied mathematics. These programs take from two to five years after you finish your bachelor's degree. Most people with graduate degrees in applied mathematics become professors and researchers.