Mathematics - MS

College of Arts & Sciences

About This Degree

The Mathematics MS primarily prepares students for doctoral programs in pure and applied mathematics and statistics, and secondarily for careers in college teaching and industrial jobs.

What You Will Learn

MS Math students conduct research in various areas of both pure and applied mathematics, including algebra, algebraic geometry, differential geometry, Lie theory, quantum mathematics, low-dimensional topology, probability, graph theory, dynamical systems, mathematical ecology, mathematical biology, partial differential equations, and machine learning. With faculty mentoring, MS Math students write and defend either a thesis (Plan A) or project report (Plan B).

Career And Outcomes

Career Opportunities

MS Math graduates usually continue on to PhD programs but are also employed as research-track faculty or lecturers at universities and colleges as well as governmental labs, industrial research centers, and private industry.

Job Outlook

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

Advising

John Stevens

Professor, Assistant Department Head for Graduate Studies
Email: john.r.stevens@usu.edu
Office: ANSC 224
Phone: (435) 797-2818

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION AND ADVISING

I am not a current USU student

I have not applied or been admitted, even if I've taken a USU Concurrent Enrollment course

I am a current USU student

I have been admitted and plan to attend, or continue attending USU

USU Locations

LOGAN CAMPUS

Admission

Admission Requirements

Mathematics MS applicants are expected to have strong background in mathematics, including three semesters of calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, advanced calculus, and nontrivial experience in broader  mathematical subjects (e.g. a selection of: modern algebra, topology, probability, discrete math or advanced DE).

Application to the Math MS programs is through the USU School of Graduate Studies website.

Students must provide:

  • GRE general scores (subject exams not required).  We look for Quantitative scores above 60% and Verbal scores above 40%, but the application process is competitive so higher scores may be neccessary be competitive with other applicants.
  • TOEFL or IELTS (unless you have earned a degree in an English-speaking country, e.g. US, UK or Canada).  To qualify for a teaching assistantship in our department the total TOEFL iBT score must be 100 or above.  IELTS must be at or above 6.5 for TA consideration.
  • Transcripts of all past coursework.  Your GPA *must* be above 3.0 during the last two years, and *should* be above 3.5 in technical subjects.
  • Contact information for three references who can speak to your academic preparation, professional goals and work ethic.
  • Personal statements on our Departmental Application Form (request from the Graduate Program Coordinator, gary.tanner@usu.edu).

International students have additional admissions requirements.

Deadlines

Most students are admitted in Fall semester.  The target date for Fall semester applications is January 15; admission notice and offers of support are generally mailed in March.  Students are asked to accept/decline offers of support on or about April 15.

Program Requirements

All students in the MS program must pass a written qualifying examination. Students may take these exams before beginning formal coursework in the program but must take them at or before the end of the first full year of matriculation.

Financial Aid

A variety of funding opportunities are available on the graduate school website.

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