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).
ADVISING
At a Glance
College: College of Arts & Sciences
Department: Mathematics and Statistics Department
USU Locations:
- Logan campus
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
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.
Take The Next Step
How to Apply
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Request Information
Contact the School of Graduate Studies to ask questions or receive more information.
Cost and Funding
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