Mathematics

The Department of Mathematics offers graduate study leading to the degrees of Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Advanced work may be specialized among the following areas:

• algebra, including algebraic number theory, commutative algebra, and homological algebra
• analysis, including analytic number theory, approximation theory, ergodic theory, harmonic analysis, and operator algebras
• applied mathematics, mathematical finance, mathematical biology, differential equations, dynamical systems,
• combinatorics and graph theory
• geometry/topology, including differential geometry, geometric group theory, and symplectic topology

After passing their preliminary examinations, students are strongly urged to attend research seminars and discuss research opportunities with faculty members. By the end of their second semester, students select a supervisory committee and develop a plan of study specifying how all degree requirements are to be met. One philosophical tenet of the Department of Mathematics graduate program is that each mathematics graduate student will be well grounded in at least two foundational areas of mathematics. To this end, each student's background will be assessed, and the student will be directed to the appropriate level of study.

The Department of Mathematics graduate program is open to all qualified graduates of universities and colleges of recognized standing. In addition to the Graduate College requirements, applicants must 

• have earned a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 3.0 or equivalent in all advanced mathematics courses at the baccalaureate level and
• meet the English proficiency requirements for applicants.

Financial Assistance

Teaching assistantships and a small number of research assistantships are available. In addition to the stipend, graduate assistants receive a graduate tuition waiver. Tuition waivers cover base tuition for NDSU graduate credits only. Students are responsible for differential tuition, student fees, and tuition for non-graduate level credits taken or Cooperative Education credits. 

To be eligible for a teaching assistantship, students must follow the English Language Proficiency Procedure for Graduate Teaching Assistants and be admitted in full-standing. In certain situations, students in conditional status may be eligible for assistantships.

Assistantship applications will be considered at any time. However, opportunities are improved for those received by March 1 preceding the fall semester of intended enrollment.

At least one year of academic work must be spent in residence at NDSU in fulfilling graduate requirements for each graduate degree earned. The M.S. customarily takes two years to complete: the Ph.D. usually last three years beyond the master's. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 throughout their graduate career.

Master of Science

The Master of Science degree is offered in two options: the  Plan A Thesis Option or the Plan B Comprehensive Study Option. The Thesis Option emphasizes research and preparation of a scholarly thesis, whereas the Comprehensive Study Option emphasizes a broader understanding of a major area of mathematics.

Departmental Requirements

At least 30 credit hours in approved graduate-level mathematics course work, depending on the degree option.

1. Thesis Option: At least 6 credit hours of MATH 798 Master's Thesis, in addition to at least 18 credit hours in courses numbered 700-789. These 18 credit hours must include six foundational courses. A grade of Master's Pass in two of the written preliminary examinations offered by the department. A thesis paper written under the supervision of a faculty member and defended at an oral examination administered by the student's supervisory committee.
2. Comprehensive Study Option: At least 2 credit hours of MATH 797 Master's Paper in addition to at least 24 credit hours in courses numbered 700-789. These 24 credit hours must include six foundational courses. Subject to the approval of the supervisory committee, at most 6 of the required 30 credits may be earned in 600-level mathematics courses (excluding 620, 621, 650, and 651) or in courses outside the Mathematics department. A grade of Master's Pass in two of the written preliminary examinations offered by the department. An expository paper written under the supervision of a faculty member and defended at an oral examination administered by the student's supervisory committee.
3. Exam Only Option: At least 30 credit hours in approved graduate-level mathematics course work. At least 21 credit hours in courses numbered 700-789, 800-889. These 21 credit hours must include six foundational courses. Subject to the approval of the supervisory committee, at most 6 of the required 30 credits may be earned in 600-level mathematics courses (excluding 620, 621, 650, and 651) or in courses outside the Mathematics Department. A grade of Ph.D. Pass in four of the written preliminary examinations offered by the department, and a passing grade in a preliminary oral examination administered by the student's supervisory committee after completion of the written preliminary examinations.

Timelines

Per departmental policy candidate has three calendar years from the time of enrollment in the Graduate College to complete the Master's degree. Extensions may be granted after review and approval by the graduate committee.