Program Overview

Saint Louis University's Master of Arts in Mathematics offers advanced study in mathematics, preparing students for further study (Ph.D.) or careers in teaching or industry. The program features individualized instruction, a low student-faculty ratio, and a variety of elective and advanced topics. Graduates develop proficiency in advanced mathematical concepts, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Program Outline

The program boasts a low student-faculty ratio, enabling extensive individualized instruction.

• Objectives: The program aims to equip graduates with the following abilities:
• Demonstrate proficiency in learning advanced mathematical concepts and techniques.
• Communicate mathematical ideas effectively in both written and oral formats.
• Achieve a master's-level understanding of the mathematical foundations underlying contemporary applications.
• Program Description: The M.A.
in Mathematics program requires 30 credit hours of coursework. Students must complete at least two courses in two of the following subject areas: algebra, analysis, statistics, and topology. At least two of these four required courses must be selected from MATH 5110 Algebraic Structures I, MATH 5210 Measure Theory, MATH 5310 Point Set Topology, and STAT 5850 Statistical Inference. The department offers these core courses on a rotating basis, along with a variety of electives and advanced topics each year.

Outline:

• Program Structure: The program consists of ten courses in mathematics, with at least eight courses at the 5000-level or higher.
A maximum of 6 credits can be transferred from the 4000-level.
• Course Schedule: Full-time students typically take three courses per semester, completing the degree in two years.
• Individual Modules:
• Required Courses:
Students must select two core courses from the following:
• MATH 5110 Algebraic Structures I
• MATH 5210 Measure Theory
• MATH 5310 Point Set Topology
• STAT 5850 Statistical Inference
• Elective Courses:
Six additional MATH or STAT courses are required, with at least four at the 5000-level or above.
• Thesis Option: Students choosing the thesis option take 6 credits of MATH 5990 as part of their elective courses.

Assessment:

• Non-Thesis Option: Students completing the non-thesis option must take a comprehensive oral exam in their final semester.
The exam consists of three parts, each covering a different assessment area chosen by the Graduation Program Coordinator in consultation with the student. Each part involves a ten-minute presentation on a mathematical topic followed by a question-and-answer session.
• Thesis Option: Students opting for the thesis option must complete a master's thesis, which involves two courses dedicated to research.
The oral exam is replaced by an oral defense of the thesis. The student must prepare a written thesis and oral defense presenting the results of an independent mathematical project conducted under the guidance of a faculty member. They must also complete 6 credit hours of MATH 5990 Thesis Research.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program emphasizes individualized instruction due to the low student-faculty ratio.
• Faculty: The department offers a variety of electives and advanced topics each year, reflecting the expertise of its faculty.
• Unique Approaches: The program provides a first-year mentoring program for students.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: The M.A.
in Mathematics prepares students for further study towards a Ph.D. or careers in teaching or industry.

Other:

• Continuation Standards: Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.
Failure to achieve a 3.00 GPA after the first year may result in the non-renewal of teaching assistantships. A "B" or better is required in each core course comprising the two required 5000-level courses.
• Roadmaps: The program provides recommended semester-by-semester plans of study (roadmaps) for students.
These roadmaps assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.