Nov 23, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Mathematics, M.S.


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The Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs in mathematics provide education at the graduate level in algebra, analysis, applied mathematics, and statistics. Students completing these degrees are prepared for positions in industry, government, business, college teaching, and for advanced study in mathematics.

The M.S. degree in mathematics is offered with no concentration, or with one of six possible concentrations. Four of the concentrations are in statistics, one is in discrete mathematics, and one is in scientific computing. The concentrations in statistics are programs designed for persons who wish to prepare for careers as professional statisticians in industry, business, or government. These programs provide advanced training in applied statistics for those who are presently working in areas that use statistics, as well as for those who plan to enter these areas. The programs present an optimal balance among the broad range of statistical techniques, mathematical methods, and computation. The concentrations in discrete mathematics and scientific computing are designed for persons who wish to combine their study of mathematics with selected areas in discrete mathematics and computer science. Opportunities exist to apply this study to related areas outside the department.

The Ph.D. degree program in Mathematics and Statistics includes concentrations in bioinformatics, biostatistics, and mathematics. These concentrations address the critical need for mathematics faculty and the need for highly trained specialists in the areas of bioinformatics and biostatistics. The concentrations in bioinformatics and biostatistics will graduate strong bioinformaticians and biostatisticians with a broad background in applied areas for direct placement in business, industry, governmental institutions and research universities. The mathematics concentration will graduate mathematicians with broad knowledge of core areas of pure and applied mathematics.

Majors are encouraged to consider carefully the career objectives they wish to pursue after graduation. Early selection of these objectives may suggest the degree programs or concentrations that will prepare students for their chosen careers. Faculty who serve as advisers for graduate majors will discuss with majors the degree programs and concentrations available to them.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics accepts applications for all three semesters. However, in order to be considered for graduate assistantships for the fall semester, applicants must complete the application process in the Office of Graduate Services in sufficient time for the department to receive it by March 1. This process often takes several weeks. International applicants should allow at least two additional months for processing of applications for admission.

Applicants may obtain additional information about the Department of Mathematics and Statistics by contacting the Directors of Graduate Studies at the addresses above.

Master of Science in Mathematics (With Thesis)


Additional Admission Requirements


In addition to the general requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics has the following requirements:

  1. A baccalaureate degree in mathematics or its equivalent.
  2. Courses in mathematics equivalent to the following:

Degree Requirements


Graduate-Level Courses (12 Hours)


Twenty-four hours of graduate-level courses (exclusive of 8820 and 8999 courses).
One Additional Three-Hour 8000-Level Course in Mathematics.

Nine Additional Hours of Graduate-Level Coursework

Nine additional hours of graduate-level coursework from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics or in a related field selected in consultation with an adviser and approved by the Director of Graduate Studies. These may include no more than six hours (e.g. two courses) in a related field. Any courses which are used in area 2 of the “Additional Admission Requirements” section of this catalog cannot be applied toward the degree.

A Minimum of Six Hours of Thesis Research


Additional Requirements


  1. A thesis
  2. A thesis defense

Master of Science in Mathematics (Non-Thesis Option)


Additional Admission Requirements


In addition to the general requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics has the following requirements:

  1. A baccalaureate degree in mathematics or its equivalent.
  2. Courses in mathematics equivalent to the following:

Degree Requirements


Graduate-Level Courses (30 Hours)


Thirty hours of graduate-level courses (exclusive of MATH 8820 )

One Additional Three-Hour 8000-Level Course in Mathematics.

Eighteen Additional Hours of Graduate-Level Coursework

Eighteen additional hours of graduate-level coursework from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics or in a related field selected in consultation with an advisor and approved by the Director of Graduate Studies. These may include no more than nine hours (or three courses) in a related field. Any courses which are used in area 2 of the “Additional Admission Requirements” above cannot be applied toward the degree.

Three Hours of Research


Research Based Requirements


A literature-based research paper completed under the direction of a graduate faculty advisor within the department.

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