Mathematical Sciences, M.S.

Alex Kasman, Program Director
843.953.8018
kasmana@cofc.edu

Jiexiang Li, Program Director
843.953.5196
lij@cofc.edu
http://math.cofc.edu/grad-progs/

Mission Statement

The Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences provides high quality graduate-level education in the Mathematical Sciences, primarily serving the region. Central to the program mission is the training of a diverse student population, including industry workers, high school and 2-year college teachers, students getting ready for doctoral studies, and students aspiring to careers in industry or education. The program offers flexible individual-centered instruction, allowing students to design plans of study tailored to their own educational and career goals. The program continues and enhances the Mathematics Department tradition of nurturing a close-knit group of students, offering opportunities for individual research projects and small group learning.

The program includes two concentrations: one in Mathematics and one in Statistics.

Exceptional students may complete the program in an accelerated way through the combined BS-MS degree (4+1 program).

Program Goals

Develop a thorough theoretical foundation in mathematics, including retention and integration of core knowledge, as well as more specialized knowledge in pure or applied mathematics, or statistics, sufficient for carrying out an independent project.
Develop good oral and written communication skills for conveying mathematical ideas and reporting the results of mathematical studies.
Provide a variety of project opportunities in the mathematical sciences including research theses, interdisciplinary projects, industry-inspired projects, internships, consulting, and development of educational resources.
Prepare students for immediate employment and career advancement in industry, education or government, or for continuing their studies at the doctoral level.

Program Description

The Department of Mathematics at The Graduate School of the University of Charleston, South Carolina offers a graduate degree program leading to a Mathematical Sciences, M.S. The program includes two concentrations: one in Mathematics and one in Statistics. The program prepares students for careers in industry, academia or government, or for doctoral studies. It also provides people in teaching and other professions with the means for career advancement or career change. Courses are offered in the summer and late afternoon/evening to accommodate working professionals. Classes are small, providing personal attention for students who can work closely on projects with individual faculty members. The graduate mathematics faculty is actively involved in a wide variety of research areas, including algebra, analysis, combinatorics, dynamical systems, geometry, Lie theory, logic, mathematical biology, mathematical physics, number theory, numerical analysis, probability, representation theory, scientific computing, statistics and topology. The Department of Mathematics also offers a Graduate Certificate in Statistics and in Operations Research. For more information, contact the program director or visit the program’s website

Assistantships

A number of graduate assistantships are available for full-time students in the Department of Mathematics. The awards will normally be made by April 30 for the following academic year; applications indicating an interest in an assistantship should be completed by April 15. However, applications for assistantships will be considered throughout the year if funds permit.

Note: For information on additional financial aid, please refer to the financial information section of the Graduate Catalog.

Admission Requirements and Application Deadlines

Institutional Requirements

A completed application form with a nonrefundable application fee of $50.
Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework. An earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required.
International applicants should refer to the International Students area within the “Admissions Information” section of the catalog for information on providing appropriate documentation with the application.

Program Requirements

Students requesting admission should submit the following:

A bachelor’s degree in mathematical sciences or a major with a strong mathematical background, and a minimum GPA of 3.000 in upper division mathematics and statistics courses. Entering students are expected to have courses in multivariate calculus, linear algebra and evidence of sufficient mathematical preparation. Applicants with deficiencies in the prerequisites for required courses in their chosen concentration will still be considered for the program but must make up any deficiencies.
A brief statement of goals.
Two letters of recommendation from former professors or immediate superiors in recent employment.

Application Deadlines

Fall: March 1, Priority; July 1, Final
Spring: November 1
Summer: March 1

Transfer Credit Policy

An applicant or student of the Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences can seek approval from the Program Director to transfer up to 12 credit hours to count towards the degree. These courses require a grade of B or higher while courses with a grade of “Pass” or “Satisfactory” will not be accepted.

Program Requirements

Student Learning Outcomes

Mathematical Sciences M.S. (PDF)