2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Nov 22, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Mathematics (M.S.)

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus


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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.

Course Delivery Format

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

Student Learning Outcomes


  • Students will understand mathematical or statistical models.
  • Students will be able to construct and apply standard mathematical and statistical models.
  • Students will be able to solve problems using appropriate software to implement the appropriate models.
  • Students will be able to disseminate the results of their work to others.
  • Students will be able to apply Argument Deconstruction in mathematics and statistics.

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

Select one of the following options


Option A - Thesis


Option B - Research/Design Paper


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: 90-91 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 9.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 115

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 twelve (12) graduate level credits may apply to the undergraduate degree as major requirements or electives with approval from the student’s academic advisor, department head/school director, and college dean. 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 .