Master of Arts in Mathematics

The Master of Arts in Mathematics program at the University at Albany is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in mathematics, preparing them for careers in industry, government, or academia. The program offers two tracks: General and Statistics.

Program of Study

The curriculum is divided into two phases: general courses and statistics-specific courses. Students complete a capstone project that applies theoretical knowledge to real-world problem-solving.

General Sequence

Mathematics (18 credits minimum as advised)
- Master's Seminar: General OR
- Master's Thesis
Supporting courses (0-12 credits)
- Courses in other fields as approved by the advisor
Recommended courses (At least three)
- Real Analysis
- Complex Analysis
- Algebra I
- Topology I

Statistics Sequence

Mathematics (18 credits minimum as advised)
- Master's Seminar: Statistics OR
- Master's Thesis
Supporting courses (0-12 credits)
- Courses as approved by the advisor
Recommended courses
- Introduction to Theory of Statistics
- Introduction to Theory of Statistics II
- Methods of Data Analysis I
- Methods of Data Analysis II
- Introduction to Bayesian Inference I

Capstone Experience

Option 1: Master's Seminar in General, Teaching or Statistics
- Research 2-3 topics in mathematical literature and report findings in an integrative presentation
Option 2: Master's Thesis
- Submit a thesis and give an oral presentation on its results

Ancillary Duties

Teaching, research, or practicum duties contributing to academic development

Career Outcomes

A master's degree in mathematics provides students with vital skills, including problem-solving, logic, and abstract thought. Graduates have gone on to PhD programs, teaching, and high-level jobs in industry and government.

Potential career paths include:
- Teacher
- Budget analyst
- Data/information scientist
- Computer engineer
- Financial planner
- Operations manager
- Economist
- Auditor
- Risk analyst
- Biostatistician

Admissions Requirements

Deadlines:
- Fall: Rolling
- Spring: Rolling
- Summer: Rolling
Required Application Materials:
- Transcripts from all schools attended
- One letter of recommendation
- Statement of goals
The statement is generally one to two pages discussing what the applicant has to offer the program and what they wish to get out of the program.

Student Learning Objectives

Gain advanced understanding of three areas of mathematics.
Develop deep understanding and working knowledge of one chosen area of mathematics, which can come from one of the areas of faculty expertise, such as analysis, algebra, topology, or statistics.

Supplemental Degree Programs

Graduate students can typically request a supplemental degree in one or more subordinate degrees without needing to go through the full admissions process again.

Supplemental programs available with this degree:
- Africana Studies CGS
- Community College Leadership CGS
- Demography CGS
- International Education Management CGS
- Machine Learning CGS
- Topological Data Analysis CGS

Program Outline

It emphasizes developing strong analytical and problem-solving abilities across various mathematical areas.

Objectives:

Gain advanced understanding of three key areas within mathematics.
Develop deep expertise in one chosen area of mathematics, aligned with faculty expertise like analysis, algebra, topology, or statistics.

Program Description:

The Master of Arts in Mathematics program features two distinct tracks: General Sequence and Statistics Sequence. Both tracks consist of a 30-credit curriculum, including general/statistics courses, supporting courses, and a capstone experience.

General Sequence:

Emphasizes core mathematical concepts, including analysis and algebra.
Requires 18 credits of general mathematics courses, including Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Algebra I, and Topology I.
Allows flexibility with additional supporting courses and electives.

Statistics Sequence:

Focuses on statistical methods and data analysis.
Requires 18 credits of statistics-specific courses, covering topics like Theory of Statistics, Analysis of Categorical Data, and Sample Survey Methodology.

Capstone Experience:

Two options available: Master’s Seminar or Master’s Thesis.
Master’s Seminar involves research and presentation of findings in a chosen area of mathematics.
Master’s Thesis delves deeper into a research topic and culminates in a comprehensive thesis and presentation.

Outline:

General Sequence:

Real Analysis: Explores analytical functions, complex numbers, and advanced analytical concepts.
Complex Analysis: Studies complex numbers, analytical functions, special functions, and concepts like Cauchy's theorem and Laurent series.
Algebra I: Covers fundamental algebraic structures and concepts.
Topology I: Introduces topological spaces, continuity, and related concepts.
Supporting Courses: 0-12 credits of electives as advised by the program advisor.
Recommended Courses: Additional courses like Abstract Algebra, Probability, and Mathematical Modelling.

Statistics Sequence:

Introduction to Theory of Statistics: Covers foundational statistical concepts and methods.
Introduction to Theory of Statistics II: Delves deeper into statistical theory and applications.
Methods of Data Analysis I & II: Develops skills in data analysis, statistical inference, and modeling.
Supporting Courses: 0-12 credits of electives as approved by the advisor.

Teaching:

The program likely utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, discussions, and individual/group projects. The faculty comprises experienced mathematicians with expertise in various areas.

Careers:

Graduates of the program pursue careers in various fields, including:

Teaching: High school or college-level mathematics instructor.
Data Science: Data analyst, data scientist, or statistician in various industries.
Finance: Financial analyst, quantitative analyst, or risk analyst.
Research: Researcher in academia or industry, specializing in mathematics, statistics, or related fields.
Government: Statistician, analyst, or policy advisor in government agencies.

Other:

The program is designated as a STEM program, offering benefits to international students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
An accelerated undergraduate/graduate option is available for eligible UAlbany undergraduates to complete both degrees in four years.