Program Overview

Master of Science with a Specialization in Mathematical Physics

The Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences offers graduate programs leading to the degree of Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Finance, Mathematical Physics, Statistics, Biostatistics, Data Science, Statistical Machine Learning, and Modelling, Data, and Predictions.

Why Study This Program?

The Master of Science with a specialization in Mathematical Physics is designed to provide students with a strong background in mathematics, physics, and statistics. Prospective graduate students should consult the Department about facilities available and the background required for the field in which they are interested.

Entrance Requirements

For the MSc, the Departments minimum admission requirements are a four-year undergraduate degree with a strong background in mathematics, physics, and/or statistics, with an admission GPA of at least 3.3 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. For the PhD, the Departments minimum admission requirements are an MSc degree in mathematical, physical, or statistical sciences, with an admission GPA of at least 3.3 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution.

• Previous credentials for applicants to Mathematical Finance should be in Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, or Finance.
• Previous credentials for applicants to Statistical Machine Learning should be in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences or Computing Science.
• The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.
• Where applicable, applicants must provide proof of English Language Proficiency, which can be demonstrated through:
  • A minimum TOEFL score of 100 (Internet-based) with a minimum score of 22 in each individual skill area, or equivalent.
  • A minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.0 on each band.
  • A minimum PTE overall score of 68 with a minimum of 60 in each category.
  • A minimum CAMBRIDGE score of 176 with at least 169 on each subscore.
• All test scores must be less than two years old.

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit the following:

• A Curriculum Vitae
• A brief (two pages maximum) Personal Statement
• Three letters of reference
• Publications (up to a maximum of three) may be submitted but are not required
• GRE scores (General and Mathematics) may be submitted but are not required

Program Requirements

The MSc with a specialization in Mathematical Physics may be taken as a thesis-based program or a course-based program.

Thesis-based MSc

• Students are required to complete a minimum of 20 units in graduate-level coursework, including a colloquium requirement, and a thesis.
• Coursework (18 units):
  • Six 3-unit approved graduate-level courses in Mathematics or Statistics, chosen in consultation with the supervisor.
  • Approved courses in the Department of Physics may be taken to satisfy program requirements, in consultation with the supervisor.
  • All coursework to be counted towards the program requirements must be approved by the Associate Chair (Graduate Studies).
  • Additional coursework may be required.
• Graduate Colloquium (2 units):
  • Students must complete two terms of MATH 601 and give a presentation in the Graduate Colloquium.
• Thesis:
  • Registration in 900-level THES

Course-based MSc

• Students are required to complete a minimum of 30 units in graduate-level coursework, including a 6-unit capping project.
• Coursework (24 units):
  • Eight 3-unit approved graduate-level courses in Mathematics or Statistics, chosen in consultation with the advisor.
  • Approved courses in the Department of Physics may be taken to satisfy program requirements, in consultation with the advisor.
  • All coursework to be counted towards the program requirements must be approved by the Associate Chair (Graduate Studies).
  • Additional coursework may be required.
• Capping project (6 units):
  • MATH 900 A/B

Residence Requirement

The minimum period of residence for the course-based and thesis-based MSc programs in Mathematical Physics is two four-month terms of full-time attendance at the University of Alberta. For part-time students, residence requirements are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Length of Program

The MSc programs are designed to be completed in 20-24 months. The maximum time to complete the thesis-based MSc program as set by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies is four years, and the maximum time to complete the course-based MSc program is six years.

Courses

Graduate courses can be found in Course Listings, under the following subject headings:

• Mathematics (MATH)
• Mathematical Physics (MA PH)
• Statistics (STAT)

Tuition and Fees

For most students in a thesis-based program, the Department provides funding through graduate teaching and research assistantships, as well as scholarships and awards, subject to conditions and limitations set by the Faculty of Science and the Department. In the MSc and PhD programs in Mathematical Finance, students are required to take MBA courses at the School of Business, which have additional fees associated with them. For general information, please refer to the Tuition and Fees page.

Scholarships and Financial Support

The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies administers over $29 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for graduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are also available for specific faculties and programs.