Master Programs

Master of Arts

The M.A. degree program is a flexible program which may be designed to prepare for entry into the job market or for further study in a variety of fields such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, applied mathematics, operations research, economics or finance. Formal programs are offered in pure mathematics, statistics, and scientific computation. Programs of study are based on a required core area supplemented by a combination of elective course work in mathematics, statistics or scientific computation.

Program Requirements for the Mathematics track:

1. A two-semester sequence in Algebra (MATH 6330-6340) and a two-semester sequence in Analysis (MATH 6650-6660);
2. Completion of at least 30 semester hours of graduate level course work in mathematics and statistics, 18 hours of which must be at the 600-level or higher;
3. Completion of a Master's thesis (counting for up to six credit hours) or successful completion of a written comprehensive examination based on MATH 6330-6340 and MATH 6650-6660.

Program Requirements for the Statistics track:

1. A one-semester course in Analysis (MATH 5650 or MATH 6650) and a two-semester sequence in Statistics (MATH 6410-6420);
2. Two approved statistics courses from departmental offerings;
3. Completion of at least 30 hours of graduate level course work in mathematics and statistics;
4. Completion of a Master's thesis or successful completion of a written examination on MATH 6410-6420 and a topic course.

The department currently does not have a graduate program in actuarial sciences, students interested in the Actuarial Sciences are encouraged to visit Actuarial Science for up-to-date information.

Program Requirements for the Applied Mathematics / Scientific Computation track:

1. A one-semester course in Analysis (MATH 6650), and a two-semester sequence in Scientific Computation (MATH 6180-6200);
2. A two-semester sequence in Applied Mathematics (MATH 5390 and MATH 6680);
3.  A total of at least 30 hours of graduate level course work, including cognate courses;
4. Successful completion of a Master's thesis or passing a comprehensive examination on MATH 6650-6680 and MATH 6180-6200.

Master of Science in Applied Statistics

The M.S. in Applied Statistics degree is offered jointly by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the Department of Applied Statistics and Operations Research. The intent of the program is to prepare the student for direct entry into a career as a statistician in business, industry or government.

Program Requirements

1. Courses in sampling, experimental design and regression analysis (STAT 5020, STAT 5060-5080);
2. A two-semester sequence course in Statistics (MATH 6410-6420);
3. At least three approved courses from the offerings of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the Department of Applied Statistics and Operation Research.
4. A least one three-hour course at the 5000 or 6000 level offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the Fall and Spring semesters.
5. A six-hour cognate in an approved area of application of statistics;Successful completion of a Master's thesis, or passing a comprehensive examination on mathematical statistics (MATH 6410-6420) and applied statistics (STAT 5020, STAT 5060, STAT 5080) with the completion of STAT 6750.

Learning outcomes  

Learning outcomes for MA in Mathematics (including Applied Math and Statistics specializations)

1. Graduates of the program will be able to effectively explain, integrate, and apply critical concepts in mathematics/statistics.
2. Students in the program will demonstrate proficiency at mathematical/statistical problem solving in novel situations.
3. Graduates of the program will be able to use appropriate technology to successfully make progress on a wide variety of mathematical/statistical tasks.
4. Graduates of the program will be able to clearly communicate mathematical/statistical ideas orally and in writing.

Learning outcomes for MS in Applied Statistics

1. Graduates of the program will be able to effectively explain critical concepts and assumptions in applied statistical modeling and analysis.
2. Graduates of the program will be able to effectively analyze data using graphical, exploratory, and statistical modeling approaches to find patterns and assess if these patterns are statistically meaningful.
3. Graduates of the program will be able to effectively use appropriate computer technology to help describe, predict, and prescribe solutions to applied statistical problems.
4. Graduates of the program will be able to clearly communicate - both orally and in writing - conclusions drawn from descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analysis of applied statistical problems.
 

Graduate Courses

Descriptions of all graduate courses can be found by browsing the course catalog.

Graduate courses offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics use the prefix: MATH