Master of Science in Mathematics

The Master of Science in Mathematics program is normally completed in two years, during which time the student satisfies course requirements and passes a comprehensive examination. 

The course requirements include 32 hours of approved graduate course work, including 2 semesters of 1 hour of MATH 510V, and at least 12 hours of courses at the 5000-6000 level (excluding MATH 510V, MATH 610V and courses for secondary math teachers).

The program has two tracks: a pure math option (also called the general option) and a computational math option.

Pure Math Option

The Pure Math Option is a flexible program with no specific course requirements. A program of study is designed in consultation with the student's graduate advisor. Typically the program should include course study in each of algebra, analysis and topology, as these subjects will be covered on the comprehensive examination. The program may include up to nine hours of approved graduate credit in courses outside of mathematics. 

Students entering with a strong background are encouraged to begin with the 5000-level course sequences.

The comprehensive examination requirement may be satisfied in two options.

  1. Pass the comprehensive exam.
    This is normally taken in the final semester of study.
  2. Pass two Ph.D. qualifying exams.
    This option is recommended for students that are considering pursuing the Ph.D. program.

The comprehensive examination cannot be taken more than three times. 

Computational Option

Students in the Computational Option should take courses covering at least 6 hours in each of Numerical Analysis (MATH 5383 and MATH 5393), Applied Math (normally ODE/PDE: MATH 5303 and 5313) , and Analysis (chosen from the following: MATH 5503, 5513, 5523, 5533 and STAT 5103).

The comprehensive examination for the computational mathematics option should cover MATH 5393, 5383, and two of the required 5000-level courses.

In addition, at least 6 hours, and at most 12 hours, may be taken outside of mathematics. Recommended courses are Introduction to Probability Theory (STAT 5103) and Statistical Inference (STAT 5113), but many others would be acceptable.