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The program leading to the degree of Master of Arts in mathematics provides students with a sound theoretical knowledge of modern mathematical sciences and ample opportunity to learn something of the applications of the mathematical sciences, the construction of mathematical models, and the art of problem-solving. The program is designed to serve those who wish to enter a Ph.D. program in mathematical sciences or to teach in secondary schools or community colleges.
Admission is selective. The requirements for regular admission into the program include a baccalaureate from an accredited institution with a 3.00 grade point average. Exceptions to this requirement may be made if evidence of the capacity for graduate study is provided. Normally the mathematical preparation requires at least 30 semester credits in undergraduate mathematics including calculus, multivariable calculus, linear algebra and differential equations. Students who have not had an undergraduate course in abstract algebra or advanced calculus may be required to complete one or both of these courses as a prerequisite to regular admission.
Candidates for the Master of Arts in mathematics will need 36 credits
of graduate work. In general, they will take at least seven 4-credit courses
in mathematical sciences, arranged by the department's Committee on Graduate
Programs, and up to two approved electives outside of mathematical sciences.
Among the courses arranged by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics
there must be included 4 credits in directed reading and research (MTH 590,
APM 590 or MTS 590) either in mathematics or in an interdisciplinary area
involving mathematics. Candidates must prepare a written report based on
this reading and research. Each candidate must take a 4-credit course in
analysis (MTS 517 or MTH 551) and a 4-credit course in abstract algebra
(MTH 571).
In addition to these requirements, each candidate must pass a combined written
and oral examination, which is devised by a candidate's committee appointed
by the Committee on Graduate Programs. Details on the format of this exam
can be obtained from the department's graduate coordinator.
In the current procedure for the written and oral examination each candidate
is given approximately 10 problems, selected by an examination committee
appointed by the Committee on Graduate Programs. Candidates will have one
month to work on these problems and prepare written solutions to a specified
subset of the problems. This is followed by a verbal presentation on any
of these problems, or related questions, as determined by members of the
examination committee.
The Department offers several courses each fall or winter semester which
are appropriate for students in the M.A. program. Most of these course are
offered in the late afternoon or evening, in order to accomodate the part-time
student.
The Department firmly believes that to teach mathematics at any level it is necessary to have a knowledge, understanding and facility well beyond the actual mathematics being taught. We believe that this depth of mathematical understanding leads to sound teaching methods, to an ability to understand, select and create new curricular materials and directions as well as to provide the teacher with topics for enrichment for gifted students and sources for assisting the poorer students. The teachers completing our Master of Arts in Mathematics should: (a) have an understanding and competence in mathematics consistent with two years of full time study in a broadly based graduate mathematics program; (b) be able to teach all mathematics courses in the high school and junior college curriculum; (c) be able to stimulate student interest in mathematics; (d) be competent in classroom management; (e) be able to acquaint themselves with existing and new curricular materials and be able to revise existing programs and create new ones.