Master's Degree Program in Mathematics
The program can normally be completed in two years or less. Graduate courses totaling at least 55 credit hours are required, with at most 10 credits coming from an optional project or thesis. At least three courses must be taken at the 600-level or above. No grade of "CR" (credit) other than for practicum, internship, research, and thesis hours will be counted towards satisfaction of program requirements. Within the master's degree program, a student can select one of four tracks, which have different requirements and separate admission. Each student, with the assistance of a faculty adviser, must develop a study plan by the end of his or her first quarter, and have it approved by the graduate chair. Any changes to this study plan must be approved by the faculty adviser and graduate chair at least one quarter before the student applies for graduation.
Applied Track
The applied track is aimed at students interested in the applications of mathematics to other fields. Students may choose from a wide variety of courses in subjects such as statistics, numerical analysis, real and complex analysis, Fourier analysis, algebra, linear and nonlinear programming, ordinary and partial differential equations, dynamical systems, coding theory, bioinformatics, or optimization. The student is encouraged to take some course work in another department such as courses in biology, economics, engineering, finance, operations research, or physics.
Pure Track
The pure track is intended primarily for those students who plan to continue their study of mathematics at the Ph.D. level. Students are required to complete two or more of the sequences offered in subjects such as algebra, analysis, differential equations and topology.
Computational Track
The computational track is aimed at students who are interested in both Mathematics and Computer Science. Our graduates often become software engineers, and are distinguished by mathematical skills that make them more valuable than typical programmers. These same skills are useful for graduates seeking careers in any field that requires computational or applied Mathematics. The curriculum provides a foundation in both computer science and mathematics, while allowing enough flexibility so that students can pursue their interests in these two fields.
Post-Secondary Teaching Track
The post-secondary teaching track combines graduate coursework in Mathematics and Education, with the majority in Mathematics. This program is not intended as preparation to teach in K-12 settings.
