PhD in Mathematics
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics
The PhD in Mathematics is designed to provide the highest level of training for independent research. Students may apply with or without a Master's degree. For those with a previous Master's degree in mathematics (or related field) the PhD is typically 5 years in duration, whereas for those without a previous Master's degree it is typically 6 years.
To earn the PhD, the student must fulfill the Graduate College requirements specified in the Graduate College Catalog as well as departmental requirements detailed in the MSCS Graduate Handbook, which includes:
- Provide proof of an equivalent MS degree or earn a high pass on the Department's written Master's Examination.
- Fulfill the doctoral preliminary examinations and minor sequence requirement.
- Produce and defend a thesis that makes a contribution to original research.
- Earn 96 semester hours of graduate credit including:
- 32 credit hours for a previously earned Master's degree (requires DGS approval), or earn a high pass on the Department's Master's Exam
- 40 credit hours of departmental 500-level courses which may include 500-level courses taken from the MS degree earned in residence but may NOT include thesis research (MATH 599 or MCS 599)
- 32 hours of thesis research (MATH 599 or MCS 599)