MATH 4470 Mathematical Modeling

This course introduces students to methods of mathematical modeling. The emphasis is on ways to analytically represent and study todays complex modeling problems, with cases from the natural and social sciences. Topics include the model building process, mathematical models of systems, and modeling data to discover properties and hidden characteristics. The calculus of finite differences and solutions to classes of difference equations will serve as the core mathematical theory taught in this course. The dynamics of certain linear and nonlinear models will be explored from various domains (e.g., population models, economic models, Markov models). The course will conclude with an introduction to mathematical graph theory and its application to modeling interacting and interdependent systems and networks.

Course overview

Department
Mathematics
School
MCAS
Credits
3
Level
Undergraduate
Offered
Periodically in the Fall,Periodically in the Spring

Catalog details

Prerequisites
MATH2202 or MATH2203 and MATH2210 or MCMA2210 or MATH2211

Catalog text is imported from the reviewed Boston College course snapshot. Confirm eligibility in EagleApps.

Requirements fulfilled

  • Mathematics B.A.: 4000-level Mathematics elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Mathematics B.S.: 4000-level Mathematics elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Computer Science B.S.: Upper-level mathematics option (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)

Requirement eligibility can vary by school, cohort, and section. Confirm the selected section in EagleApps or with an advisor.

Official evaluation summary

4.15 / 5

Based on 105 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-08-02. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

Sections

  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Katherine Slyman · 245 Beacon Street Room 125A MWF 12:00 Noon-12:50PM · Offered