Program Overview

The Master of Arts in mathematics is designed to achieve two objectives:

Provide a strong program of course work in mathematics beyond the undergraduate level and
Be flexible enough to accommodate a wide variety of student interests and backgrounds. There are no required courses in the program, but students are strongly encouraged to develop an emphasis in the courses which make up their individual plan of study; such an emphasis provides both focus and depth in the graduate experience.  
Their objectives in their graduate programs, students should form a close working relationship with a faculty member having similar mathematical interests as soon as possible. This will ensure good advice in planning a coherent plan of study. In addition, an advisor may be able to suggest special topics courses, independent study, or the thesis option which could all be used to pursue one's interests in greater depth.

Finally, students who plan to pursue a doctoral degree in mathematics should include a sequence in analysis and a sequence in algebra in their plans of study.

Computational Mathematics Concentration

This concentration is recommended for students interested in Computational Science, particularly those students who are interested in pursuing graduate study in Applied and Computational Mathematics at the graduate level.

A Concentration in Computational Mathematics may be useful in a wide range of areas including Science, Engineering, Government, Health Care, Business, and Information Technology. The specialization in Computational Mathematics is designed for students with a strong interest in Mathematics and in mathematical applications to areas of Science and Engineering. By choosing elective courses carefully, students completing this specialization will be prepared for a career in a variety of Computing and/or Engineering areas. Students will also be prepared to continue on to a graduate program in Applied Mathematics.

Computational Mathematics involves the use of math and computers to solve problems and predict outcomes. The concentration in Computational Mathematics is intended for any student who is interested in applications to solving practical and physical problems in Engineering, Science, and Business. This concentration is also recommended for students who wish to work in the research and development area of industry. The concentration is especially intended for students seeking a career as Quantitative Analysts, Computational Scientists, and Applied Mathematicians, and for those thinking of continuing the study of Applied and Computational Mathematics at the graduate level.