The Master of Science Degree in Pure Mathematics requires that the student demonstrate knowledge in certain core areas. There are two options for doing this. Under the first option the student takes courses in order to prepare for examinations over these core areas. The second option requires the student to successfully complete more advanced courses in lieu of the exams.
Specific Courses
Courses taken as an undergraduate can be used to
satisfy the above requirements. If this is done the Master's degree
program can be more flexible.
Courses Taken in Graduate School
The courses taken in graduate school must total at
least 32 hours which may include two hours credit for a Master's
report. If a student elects to write a thesis, the minimum number
of hours is reduced to 30. The courses taken on the Master's degree
program must include at least 21 hours of mathematics, statistics,
or computer science courses numbered 5000 or above. (Math 4613, Math 4143
and Math 4153 are counted as 5000 level courses.) No more than
6 hours outside the mathematical sciences (mathematics, statistics and
computer science) will count towards the
Master's degree. All the courses on the Master's degree program
must constitute a coherent whole and must be approved by the student's
advisory committee.
Comprehensive Examination
A Master's degree student must pass a comprehensive
written examination
on Advanced Calculus, Modern Algebra, and
General Topology. If a student chooses Option II above and if
grades of B or better are received in all three of the sequences
selected, then the student will be exempted from the Master's
Comprehensive Exam.
Creative Component, Report, or Thesis
Each student must complete either a creative component,
report, or thesis. Under any of these three options, a written
document and a public presentation based on this individually
directed project is required.
Other Requirements
The University catalog
contains detailed procedures
and requirements applicable to all Master's degrees.