本课程侧重于为我们的学生提供开发和维护数学模型所需的数学和计算技能。数学模型是将某些实际系统转化为数学语言的形式，通常采用单个偏微分方程或此类方程系统的形式。有效的数学模型的发展是基于科学和技术的基础，是我们社会的基本需求，这些模型是人类与我们用来管理和研究世界的众多机器之间不可缺少的联系。数学系提供纯数学和应用数学课程，并开设数学专业和辅修课程，以促进教育，政府，商业和工业的就业。此外，提供数学课程以支持物理，社会，生物学和健康科学以及工程，商业和教育领域的计划。
A mathematical model is a rendering of some real-world system into the language of mathematics, usually taking the form of a single partial differential equation, or a system of such equations. The development of effective mathematical models is a fundamental need of our society, based as it is upon science and technology, and these models act as the indispensable link between us humans and the multitude of machines that we use to manage and investigate our world. <br>In weather prediction, data is gathered globally and locally and used as input to a system of partial differential equations that include not only effects related to the atmosphere, but also oceanic and even polar effects. This system of equations is large and complex, and good mathematics together with powerful supercomputer systems are needed for their solution. The end result is that today hurricanes and even tornadoes, while not exactly predicable, are much more predicable than in earlier times. The early warning systems generated by these models have saved many lives in recent years.<br><br>There are many other examples of beneficial mathematical models. Many regions of the country depend crucially on groundwater for human and industrial/agricultural use. It is a renewable but fragile resource, and contamination and overuse is a constant problem. Once again, aquifers are modeled by a system of partial differential equations. The design of jumbo-sized jet aircraft, CAT-scan imaging in medicine, the effects of earth tremors on buildings in earthquake zones, and option pricing models in the stock market are some additional examples of mathematical models of value to society.