Overview

The Ph.D. degree allows you to individualize your program of study, so in addition to courses in mathematics, you might include courses in computer science, engineering, and other applied areas.

Program Requirements

• 72 total credits
• 18 dissertation credits (MTH 699)
• Selection of a faculty research advisor and doctoral committee during the first year
• An approved program of study and dissertation proposal
• Successful completion and oral defense of a doctoral dissertation

Programs of study can be designed for individuals who are employed on a full-time basis. However, all Ph.D. candidates must maintain residence by taking a minimum of 6 credits for at least two consecutive semesters.

Track Requirements

Pure Mathematics

Required courses include:

• MTH 515
• MTH 525
• MTH 535
• MTH 536
• MTH 562

Additional course and transfer credit requirements vary based on whether you enter with or without a master’s degree.

Applied Mathematics

Requirements include:

• At least 30 of the 54 non-dissertation credits in mathematics (MTH or AMS)
• A faculty-approved area of concentration
• Up to 24 credits in the selected area of concentration

Course and transfer credit requirements vary based on previous graduate coursework.

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Comprehensive Examination

Doctoral candidates complete a comprehensive examination near the end of their coursework consisting of:

• A 10-hour written examination administered over eight days
• A 2-hour oral examination following successful completion of the written exam

The examination is administered by the student’s doctoral committee and approved by the Graduate School.

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Dissertation

Students work closely with their faculty advisor and doctoral committee to develop a dissertation proposal, conduct original research, and successfully defend their dissertation in an oral examination.