MS in Mathematics
The Master of Science in Mathematics is designed for students with a background in a STEM discipline who wish to obtain desirable quantitative jobs in industry or government, teach mathematics at a community college, or enter a PhD program in pure or applied mathematics (or another STEM discipline). This program is also offered as a five-year BS + MS blended program.
Students will improve their ability to think abstractly, solve complex problems, and some courses will involve a Python programming component. The program is sufficiently flexible to allow students to emphasize their desired blend of pure, applied, statistical, or computational topics, depending on their background and interest.
Students may either pursue the thesis option, involving working on a research project and writing a master’s thesis under the supervision of a faculty member, or the non-thesis option, which involves additional coursework and a comprehensive exam. In either case, graduates will obtain an advanced understanding of abstract thinking, complex problem-solving, and computational techniques, positioning them for success in their chosen career paths.
- Coursework
Choose four of the following:
- Math 421: Advanced Calculus II
- Math 435: Linear Algebra
- Math 437: Topology
- Math 450: Computational Statistics
- Math 451: Modern Algebra II
- Math 456: Applied Statistical Methods II
- Math 458: Sampling Methods
- Math 461: Numerical Analysis
- Math 465: Introduction to Complex Variables
- Math 472: Introduction to Chaotic Dynamical Systems
- Math 475: Calculus of Variations
- Math 480: Mathematical Modeling
- Math 485: Advanced Topics in Data Science
- CSCI 580: Artificial Intelligence
- CSCI 581: Machine Learning
Two required:
- Math 621: Real Analysis
- Math 622: Applied and Computational Algebra
Choose two of the following:
- Math 641: Combinatorics and Graph Theory
- Math 642: Computational Number Theory
- Math 643: Stochastic Processes
- Math 644: Partial Differential Equations and Applications
- CSCI 611: Applied Machine Learning
- CSCI 612: Applied Computer Vision
- CSCI 651: Applied Graph Theory
- Math 690: Advanced Topics in Mathematics
- Thesis or Non-Thesis Options
Students must choose between the thesis or non-thesis option.
In the thesis option, students work closely with faculty mentors to undertake independent research and complete a Master's thesis. This track is highly recommended for those considering pursuing a PhD program or seeking research-focused careers. Students will take two semesters of Math 699: Master's Thesis.
The non-thesis option is designed for students looking to strengthen their theoretical and practical skills in mathematics without undertaking a research project. Students will take an additional approved 600-level course and Math 696: Comprehensive Exam.
- Admission Requirements
- A BS degree in a STEM discipline. Proficiency in the areas below is most often demonstrated through completion of prerequisite coursework with a C- or better. A waiver of prerequisites may be available, subject to approval by the Graduate Coordinator.
Prerequisite coursework
- Calculus I (MATH 120 or equivalent)
- Linear algebra (MATH 235 or equivalent)
- Introduction to Proofs or Discrete Mathematics (MATH 330 or Math 217 or equivalent)
- Programming and Algorithms I (CSCI 111 or equivalent)
- Real Analysis I (Math 420 or equivalent)
- Modern Algebra I (Math 449 or equivalent)
A second course in computer programming (CSCI 211 or equivalent) is recommended, but not required. Students missing one or two of the above courses may still be admitted to the program, but must complete them within their first year.
- A minimum GPA of 2.5.
- All graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship, whose primary education was principally in a language other than English, must demonstrate competency in English. For questions, refer to International Admissions & Outreach.
- A BS degree in a STEM discipline. Proficiency in the areas below is most often demonstrated through completion of prerequisite coursework with a C- or better. A waiver of prerequisites may be available, subject to approval by the Graduate Coordinator.
- Application Process
Applicants will apply through Cal State Apply. The application will ask you to provide:
- Statement of Purpose
- Unofficial transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
In addition, applicants may choose to provide the following optional items:
- Resume
- GRE scores
Questions?