The Bachelor of Applied Mathematics program at Franklin College offers a robust and practical approach to mathematics, emphasizing its application to real-world problems across various disciplines. This major is designed for students who enjoy mathematical reasoning and are interested in pursuing careers in business or industry where quantitative skills are highly valued. The program fosters critical thinking and complex problem-solving abilities, preparing students to tackle the quantitative challenges facing the world today. It differentiates itself by integrating core mathematical education with training in highly transferable skills like collaboration, communication, and professional presentation.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the Bachelor of Applied Mathematics program at Franklin College is a STEM-designated program. This designation is highly advantageous, particularly for international students, as it allows for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period after graduation, providing more opportunities to gain valuable work experience in the U.S. workforce. The curriculum's rigorous foundation in mathematical theory, computational methods, and problem-solving techniques aligns perfectly with STEM criteria.
Curriculum: The curriculum for Applied Mathematics at Franklin College is academically rigorous, holistic, and highly practical, combining foundational mathematical knowledge with real-world applications. Students delve into the relationship between mathematics and other scientific disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and computer science. The program incorporates project-based coursework, where students tackle real-world problems and gain experience in statistical consulting and big data analysis. Technology is strategically integrated into the curriculum, providing students with hands-on opportunities with tools used in the field. This immersive approach ensures graduates are well-prepared to apply their strong mathematical thinking and reasoning skills to offer unique insights in their chosen fields.
Research Focus: Undergraduate research is a significant component of the Applied Mathematics program at Franklin College. While all mathematics majors have opportunities for independent study and research, applied mathematics students frequently engage in client-based research projects, analyzing datasets for local non-profit agencies. This hands-on research experience equips students with invaluable skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and professional communication. Faculty members actively guide students through individual research projects on various topics, providing opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios and gain tangible outcomes to showcase in their professional endeavors.
Industry Engagement: The Applied Mathematics program at Franklin College emphasizes strong industry engagement to ensure its graduates are well-prepared for the professional workforce. A key feature is the requirement for every Applied Mathematics major to complete at least one professional internship. These internships often lead directly to full-time employment upon graduation, with past mathematics majors interning at prominent companies like Cummins, Salesforce, Caterpillar, The Hagerman Group, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Lincoln Financial. Students also have opportunities to interact with alumni and guest speakers, learn about real-world mathematical applications through on-site visits at local employers, and travel to regional and national conferences, gaining valuable networking opportunities and industry insights.
Global Perspective: Franklin College broadly encourages its students, including those in Applied Mathematics, to gain a global perspective through various study abroad and immersive experiences. The college's Office of Global Education facilitates numerous opportunities for international travel, including month-long Immersive Term study away courses and semester or year-long programs at partner universities. While specific Applied Mathematics-focused global programs are not explicitly detailed, these experiences allow students to broaden their understanding of diverse cultures and how mathematical principles are applied in different global contexts. Engaging with various educational systems and professional environments abroad fosters intercultural competence and adaptability, essential qualities for an increasingly interconnected global workforce.
