Mathematics (M.S.)

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Program Coordinator/Contact

Kurt D. Cogswell, Department Head
Donald Vestal, Associate Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Chicoine Architecture, Mathematics and Engineering Hall 209, Box 2225
605-688-6196

Program Information

The focus of the M.S. in Mathematics program is the development of sophisticated mathematical models and their implementation on high performance computing platforms. The curriculum features a balance of application, computation, and theory with particular emphasis in the areas of operations research, computational science, and the development of probabilistic and deterministic models. Areas of faculty and graduate student research activity include computational biology, computational finance, molecular dynamics simulation, operations research, optimization, and Ramsey theory. The program is particularly effective at preparing graduates to work in business, industry, or government as well as preparing students to continue on to the CSS Ph.D. or other Ph.D. program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Prove theorems: Students should be able to prove theorems in specialized areas of mathematics and statistics.
Recall definitions and theorems: Students should be able to recall important definitions and theorems from some specialized areas of mathematics and statistics and effectively communicate these concepts.
Use models correctly: Students should be able to use mathematical models correctly.
Understand the ethical implications of professional actions in mathematics and other contexts. (Transferable Skill: Ethics - Moral Decision Making/Moral Reasoning)

Course Delivery Format

Courses will typically be delivered in on-campus classrooms, with occasional courses offered online.

Facilities and Services

The department offices are located in Architecture, Mathematics and Engineering 209. The Math Help Center, located in AME 292 and in the Biostress Basement 0020, provides free walk-in tutoring for students in several undergraduate courses.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The department has graduate research and teaching assistantships and fellowships are available for a number of qualified applicants.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

MATH 575 - Operations Research (COM) Credits: 3
and MATH 675 - Operations Research II Credits: 3
or
MATH 571 - Numerical Analysis I (COM) Credits: 3
and MATH 770 - Numerical Linear Algebra Credits: 3
or
MATH 571 - Numerical Analysis I (COM) Credits: 3
and MATH 771 - Numerical Analysis II Credits: 3
MATH 625 - Advanced Calculus Credits: 3
MATH 741 - Measure and Probability Credits: 3
MATH 779 - Advanced Mathematics Synthesis Credits: 1

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

MATH 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
Additional electives as needed to complete requirements

Option B - Research/Design Paper

MATH 788 - Research Paper Credits: 1-2 (2 credits required)
Additional electives as needed to complete requirements

Option C - Coursework Only

Approved Electives

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Mathematics requirement of 575 paper-based, 90-91 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0

Students who are interested in an assistantship are strongly encouraged to submit letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s experience with teaching and research.

Accelerated Master’s Program

The accelerated Master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to 12 credits applied to the undergraduate degree may be used to satisfy graduate credit. Students must follow SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .