Introduction to Math Modeling

What do you need math for?  It turns out, almost everything! Mathematical models are powerful tools that can help us understand and predict phenomena in science and engineering, including the spread of diseases, waves in the ocean, the value of companies in the stock market, the way air moves around a jet plane and so much more. This course will incorporate a mix of lectures, in-depth discussions of examples, and hands-on exercises and projects. You’ll meet people from a variety of fields, who will show you how math is applied in their discipline. You’ll also have the opportunity to investigate or extend a mathematical model discussed in class as your final project.

What You'll Learn

• The many ways mathematics can be used in science, business and research  
• How to comfortably solve a variety of algebraic problems, why solutions work and what the answers mean  
• Terminology of mathematical modeling and differential equations  
• Algebraic, geometric and graphical reasoning to recognize patterns and structures 

Who Should Register

This course is for incoming ninth to 12th graders. To enroll, you should have a basic understanding of algebra and a curiosity about mathematics. Expect to learn at a fast pace.

Instructor 

Cassia Cai

More Information

This in-person course is taught on the UW Seattle campus. You’ll need regular access to a laptop. If you can’t bring one, we have a limited number of laptops for students with demonstrated need. Reach out to us at ytp@uw.edu.

There’s now a nonrefundable $50 registration fee each quarter you register. See the FAQs page for details about registration, refunds, waitlists and more. 

Earn a Digital Badge

After participating in this course, you can claim a Youth & Teen Programs digital badge that you can highlight on college and job applications and share on social media.

Details

Jul 14–Jul 25, 2025 2A	Day Mon–Fri	Time 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
	Location UW Seattle	Cost $995
	Refund Deadline Jun 1, 2025	Register

Jul 28–Aug 8, 2025 3A	Day Mon–Fri	Time 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
	Location UW Seattle	Cost $995
	Refund Deadline Jun 1, 2025	Register