Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Mathematics program at Minnesota State University, Mankato offers three tracks: Broad Selection, Computer Science, and Community College Teaching. The program consists of 34 credits, including core courses, restricted electives, and a capstone course. Graduates may pursue careers in academia, industry, government, or non-profit organizations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Arts in Mathematics program at Minnesota State University, Mankato is designed for students pursuing a Ph.D. program in Mathematics, students intending to teach mathematics at a community college, and students intending to use mathematics in a company which requires sophisticated analytical and reasoning skills. The program offers three tracks:
- Broad Selection: Intended for students pursuing a career heavily focused in mathematics or continuing to a PhD institution.
- Computer Science: A mixture of mathematics and computer science, appropriate for students pursuing a career in technological industries or working in applied mathematics.
- Community College Teaching: A mixture of education and mathematics, intended for students wishing to teach at a community college.
Outline:
The program consists of 34 credits, divided into three parts:
- Common Core (0-15 credits): All students must complete five core courses: Real Analysis I, Linear Algebra II, Theory of Statistics I, Numerical Analysis I, and either Adult Development and Learning or Pedagogy in Online Learning Environments.
- Restricted Electives (15 credits): Students choose one of the three tracks and complete the corresponding elective requirements.
- Capstone Course (1-4 credits): Students choose either the Alternate Plan Paper or the Thesis option.
Assessment:
The program's assessment methods include:
- Coursework: Students are assessed on their performance in coursework through exams, quizzes, and assignments.
- Comprehensive Exam: Students must pass a comprehensive exam covering the Common Core courses.
- Alternate Plan Paper or Thesis: Students must complete either an Alternate Plan Paper or a Thesis, which is assessed by a faculty committee.
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced faculty members in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Faculty members use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. The program also emphasizes the use of technology in teaching and learning.
Careers:
Graduates of the program may pursue careers in:
- Academia: Teaching mathematics at universities or colleges
- Industry: Applying mathematics to solve problems in various fields, such as finance, engineering, and healthcare
- Government: Using mathematics to inform policy decisions
- Non-profit organizations: Using mathematics to address social and environmental issues