Pure Mathematics - M.A., M.S. and Ph.D. Download to print

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Pure Mathematics comprises a flexible program of coursework in mathematics beyond the bachelor's degree emphasizing theoretical areas of the discipline (algebra, analysis, geometry, number theory and topology). There is no thesis requirement or option. Students in the pure mathematics Ph.D. program can apply for this M.A. degree after completing the requisite number of credit hours.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Pure Mathematics is primarily a terminal, pre-professional degree comprising coursework beyond the bachelor's degree emphasizing theoretical ares of the discipline (including algebra, analysis, geometry, number theory and topology). Students are required to write and defend a thesis in an area agreed upon with a faculty advisor.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Pure Mathematics is for students interested in becoming professional scholars, college and university teachers or independent workers in private, industrial or government research institutions.

M.A. and M.S.: Official transcript(s), goal statement, three letters of recommendation and resume or vita. Students applying for either master's degree are not required to have an undergraduate degree in pure mathematics; however, they are expected to have proficiency in algebra and analysis at the level of Introduction to Modern Algebra (MATH 41011-41012) and Introduction to Analysis (MATH 42001-42002). Those who do not meet these specific requirements may be granted conditional admission by the Graduate Studies Committee.

Ph.D.: Admission into the Ph.D. also requires passing the departmental qualifying examination at the master's level in algebra and analysis.

For more information about graduate admissions, please visit the Graduate Studies website.

The Master of Arts and Master of Science programs require a total of 32 semester hours of graduate credit. Each student should submit a detailed plan of study for approval by the advisor by the time the first 16 semester hours of graduate credit have been completed.

Ph.D: Each student is required to take a set of basic courses as outlined in the Departmental Information and Policy Guide. Students may petition to have specific course requirements waived if a grade of B (3.000) or higher was obtained for an equivalent course at another school. The basic courses will prepare the student for the candidacy examination. Students present at least one seminar during their graduate career.

M.A. Pure Mathematics

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Reason in mathematical arguments, including using precise definitions, articulating assumptions, and reasoning logically to conclusions.
2. Engage effectively in problem solving, including exploring examples, devising and testing conjectures, and assessing the correctness of solutions.
3. Approach mathematical problems creatively, including trying multiple approaches and modifying problems when necessary to make them more tractable.
4. Communicate mathematics clearly both orally and in writing.
5. Teach college-level mathematics.
6. Understand and appreciate connections among different subdisciplines of mathematics.
7. Be aware of and understand a broad range of mathematical subdisciplines.
8. Obtain a broader and deeper understanding of core mathematics disciplines of algebra and analysis.

M.S. Pure Mathematics

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Reason in mathematical arguments at a level appropriate to the discipline, including using precise definitions, articulating assumptions, and reasoning logically to conclusions.
2. Engage effectively in problem solving, including exploring examples, devising and testing conjectures, and assessing the correctness of solutions.
3. Approach mathematical problems creatively, including trying multiple approaches and modifying problems when necessary to make them more tractable.
4. Communicate mathematics clearly both orally and in writing.
5. Teach college-level mathematics.
6. Obtain a deeper understanding of some subdiscipline of mathematics.

Ph.D. Pure Mathematics

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Understand and appreciate connections among different subdisciplines of mathematics.
2. Be aware of and understand a broad range of mathematical subdisciplines.
3. Obtain a broader and deeper understanding of core mathematics subdisciplines of algebra and analysis.
4. Obtain a deep understanding of some subdiscipline.
5. Reason in mathematical arguments at a deep level, including using precise definitions, articulating assumptions, and reasoning logically to conclusions.
6. Engage effectively in problem solving, including exploring examples, devising and testing conjectures, and assessing the correctness of solutions.
7. Approach mathematical problems creatively, including trying multiple approaches and modifying problems when necessary to make them more tractable.
8. Develop and carry out a research program in mathematics.
9. Communicate mathematics clearly both orally and in writing.
10. Teach university-level mathematics effectively.

This examination will be a comprehensive examination in the field of the major subject, and will be a substantially deeper test than the qualifying examination.