BIOMATHEMATICS

MISSION STATEMENT

An increasing number of problems in the biological sciences are being solved using sophisticated mathematical and computational tools. The biomathematics degree blends mathematics, biology, and computer science in preparation for continued graduate studies and for careers in the quantitative life sciences. The degree's mission is to provide a world class undergraduate education in applied mathematics used in support of the life sciences.

The degree's mission is supported and motivated by these facts:

Biological data is being generated with unprecedented precision and in unfathomable volumes.

Quantifying biological observations requires mathematical and statistical analysis.

The basic principles of complex biological systems support mathematical and computational modeling, which can lead to testable hypotheses and new discoveries.

PROGRAM GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The biomathematics degree will provide a broad based undergraduate experience that 1) prepares students with a rigorous education in applied mathematics, 2) educates students in the fundamental principles of biology, 3) trains students to work in a computational arena, 4) introduces students to several of the sister disciplines of computational biology, mathematical biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, and biostatistics, and 5) guides students through an advanced undergraduate research project. The degree will also liberally educate students through the study of the humanities and social sciences. Students of the program will be encouraged to participate in external and internal research programs and industrial internships and/or co-ops.

Graduates of the biomathematics program will have an ability to:

Mathematically model, solve, and analyze problems in biomathematics.

Implement computational approaches to solve and analyze problems in biomathematics.

Write lucidly about biomathematics.

Speak fluently and coherently about biomathematics.

Synthesize new and previous knowledge through a capstone experience.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Graduates will be prepared for graduate study in any of the sister fields as well as for careers in the quantitative life sciences. Each graduate will complete a capstone research experience that will culminate in a written report and a public presentation.