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Master’s Degree in Mathematics

Master’s Degree in Mathematics

Mathematics is the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns. The word “mathematics” comes from the Greek word μάθημα (máthēma), which means “that which is learnt.” The study of mathematics as a discipline began in the 6th century BC with the Pythagoreans.

NYU Courant says a Master's program in mathematics "encompasses the basic graduate curriculum in mathematics and also offers the opportunity of some more specialized training in an area of interest. A typical Master's course of study will involve basic courses in real analysis, complex analysis, and linear algebra, followed by other fundamental courses such as probability, scientific computing, and differential equations."

According to the official site, students will then be able to take more advanced graduate courses in pure and applied mathematics, depending on their mathematical interests.

Mathematics today can be a great field to get into. According to BLS, employment in Mathematician and Statistician occupations is projected to grow 33% from until 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Online Master’s in Mathematics or In-person

When it comes to getting your master’s degree in mathematics, you can find an in-person program or an online program. The benefits of an online program may appeal to working professionals or those looking for a career transition. In-person programs may appeal more to those coming from undergraduate programs or those who want that in-person experience.

A Master’s in Mathematics

Getting your master’s in mathematics can be a wise choice for those wanting to go further in their careers. You can get your Master of Science in mathematics or a Master of Arts in mathematics. The difference would be that getting your MA could require other non-mathematic-related courses and could include a teaching option. When you go to get your MS, you will take more advanced mathematics courses.

Both can be stepping stones before you go on for a Ph.D.

Concentrations in Mathematics

Different concentrations will have different types of coursework. Here are some of the most common that you might find in a master’s of mathematics program:
  • Applied Mathematics - Students will learn about the application of mathematical methods in different fields such as physics, engineering, biology, finance, and more.
  • Teaching of Mathematics - For students who want to go into the field of education with a focus on mathematics.
  • Computational Mathematics - Students focus on mathematical research in mathematics as well as in areas of science where computing is an important and essential part of the process.

Classes in Mathematics

The classes you take in a master’s of mathematics program will depend on your concentration. Here are a few examples of classes you might take while getting your master’s degree.
  • Hot Topics in Mathematics  – this class is where students will learn about the current research developments in mathematics.
  • Algebra for Teachers – this class will prepare students to teach mathematical subjects such as integers, commutative rings, and other algebra topics.
  • Mathematical Logic – this class would be an intro to the subject of logic.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by school and program. However, most will require students to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, complete an application essay, and submit letters of recommendation. Students will most likely need a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or other related fields.

Some schools might also require professional experience, but even if the school doesn’t, it can help to have that work experience to put on the application. Schools usually also want students to have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

How to Choose a Program

There are many different factors when choosing the right mathematics master’s program. Students should look at the length of each program, the course format, available concentrations, and final project requirements. Most programs are two years long, but students might also be able to find an accelerated program that can be completed in a year. It might also depend on whether the student goes full or part-time. Students should also consider the curriculum and the cost.

Accreditation status for each program can also make a difference and affect future career opportunities. Departments often receive accreditation from field-specific accrediting bodies. Accreditation indicates that the program meets set standards of quality for the profession.

Top Master’s in Mathematics Programs

There are many different master’s in mathematics programs, some are in-person, and some are online.

Here are 10 of the top master’s in mathematics programs:

Jobs With a Master’s Degree in Mathematics

There are also careers within the military for those that have a master’s degree in mathematics. You can work within the military as a chemist, weather officer, financial manager, human intelligence collector, oceanographer, and more.

Scholarships for Students Getting a Master’s in Mathematics

Here are a few scholarships for those getting their master’s in mathematics or a similar major. You can also find other scholarships on College Recon.

Gertrude M. Cox Scholarship

This scholarship is sponsored by the ASA Committee on Women in Statistics and Caucus for Women in Statistics to encourage more women to enter statistically oriented professions. There will be two recipients, one to a woman in or entering the early stages of graduate training at the master’s degree or Ph.D. level and one to a woman in a more advanced stage of training.

There will also be honorable mentions. Students need to be women in the US or Canada who are admitted to full-time study in a graduate statistics program. In the past there have been multiple $1,000 awards.

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program 

This fellowship program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines pursuing research-based master's and doctoral degrees at accredited US institutions. The five-year fellowship includes three years of financial support, including an annual stipend of $34,000 and a cost-of-education allowance of $12,000 to the institution.

For A Bright Future Global Scholarship Program

This scholarship is designed to inspire and equip young adults to tackle the pressing issues affecting their communities. To be eligible, students must desire higher education with an emphasis in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, education of children, or the creative arts.

Applicants must also be members of an underrepresented minority. Students must also demonstrate high performance and self-drive, as evidenced by outstanding achievement in school and community or work-related activities.

GeneTex Scholarship

This scholarship program in the past has awarded $2,000 scholarships to students pursuing a STEM undergraduate or graduate degree. Students must be in good standing at an accredited college or university with a declared STEM major. There will only be one recipient of this award.