Studies & Degrees in Scientific Computing
Choose where you would like to study Scientific Computing:
The United StatesThe study of Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing involves the study of mathematical tools and algorithms for numerical approximation that is used in solving hard problems. These problems include weather predictions, accurate computing of spacecraft trajectory, designing car crash simulation for improving safety standards of vehicles, calculating value of stocks, so on and so forth.
Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing is no doubt an interdisciplinary subject requiring knowledge of different subjects like mathematics, computer science and engineering. Skills in mathematical modeling are basic necessities in the study and practice of this subject.
Course Structure and Eligibility
Both undergraduate and post graduate courses are offered on Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing by most of the state and private universities. A student seeking admission to any of the above courses should have a basic knowledge of calculus as well as linear algebra. A fair idea of a high level programming language is also desirable. For admission to post graduate courses, the minimum qualification is a Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Mathematics or an engineering subject like Information Technology or Electronics and Telecommunication, etc. Students may also pursue doctoral and post doctoral research programs in universities, but they have to be cautious about the quality and acceptability of the specific program.
A general course module of Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing would include papers on numerical methods, methods of applied mathematics, fluid dynamics, fundamental algorithms, etc. Special papers and elective courses however would vary from one institute to another depending on the level of the course. There is the scope of studying different subjects within the field of Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing. These include probability or statistics, cryptography, etc. A study of cryptography, for example, helps in keeping personal information absolutely safe say while using an ATM or a credit card swipe machine. Another application in the field of Numerical analysis and scientific computation is computational forensics. This is a quantitative approach to forensic science. The process involves computer modeling and simulation which is used in solving various forensic problems.
Different types of software are used for Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing. These are such as MATLAB and its clones, Scilab, LabView, FlexPRo, etc. It is important for those who want to expertise in this field to have fair knowledge of handling at least some of these software.
Career Prospects
Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing is indispensible to any scientific investigation and technological advancement. Students of this subject have high chances of getting absorbed into government laboratories, research facilities, and universities and also in the private sector. Those having expertise in modern computing tools and hands on training in handling different projects are always given preference. Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing are vastly used in the fields of Chemistry, Molecular Biology, etc. because these fields extensively use computer simulations. Drug designing, gene therapy and other engineering companies like aerospace, power and research and development labs also provide high profile jobs to experts in Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing.