All Master's students must either pass nine courses or pass seven courses and write a thesis; the first alternative is usually reserved for those who have passed oral examinations in three areas of mathematics. Four of the courses are required to be in specific areas to develop a breadth of knowledge. A master's thesis is the result of directed study with an advisor of your choice; it is usually a survey of a specific topic or an in-depth study of some problem. For a fuller statement of Masters' degree requirements, click here.

The master's program is a significant part of our graduate program. Many of our students pursue only the master's degree and most of these get good jobs in industry or teaching; others go on to the Ph.D. degree.