Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's in Mathematics Program

The Master of Arts and Master of Science in Mathematics degree programs are designed for students with a strong undergraduate background in mathematics. The program offers both a Master of Arts degree, which typically takes one year to complete, and a Master of Science degree, which typically takes 2 years to complete.

Program Overview

The Masters programs are well suited for students planning to apply to competitive PhD programs. Both Masters offer a comprehensive list of graduate courses. The Master of Science adds several advanced classes and a research component. Neither degree offers nor requires teaching assistantships, but financial aid may be available.

Curriculum

Both Masters degrees require the same core courses in analysis, algebra, and topology, as well as a math seminar course, which enriches our students' experience by encouraging them to attend various seminar series.

• The requirements for the Master of Arts include:
  • Six core courses
  • One seminar course
  • Four additional credits, which can be two more seminars or a graduate-level math course (or other elective that is approved)
• The Master of Science requires additional coursework and includes the option of completing a thesis with the approval of the faculty.

Program Details

• Program Length:
  • MA: 2 semesters (one year of residency required)
  • MS: Typically 4 semesters (1.5 years of residency required)
• Credits:
  • MA: 7 courses and 1 seminar, or 6 courses and 3 seminars
  • MS: 11 courses and 1 seminar; or 9 courses, 1 seminar, and a thesis
• Entry Term: Fall
• Cost of Attendance: Calculator
• Application Deadlines: April 1st deadline

Career Opportunities and Alumni

A Brandeis master's degree in mathematics will give you a solid preparation for doctoral studies; many of our graduates go on to study in the most prestigious PhD programs, including right here at Brandeis. Notable alumni include Karen Keskulla Uhlenbeck, MA'66, PhD'68, the distinguished recipient of the Abel Prize in Mathematics (2019), MacArthur Prize Fellowship (1983), Noether Lecture (1988), National Medal of Science for Mathematics and Computer Science (2000), the Guggenheim Fellowship for Natural Sciences, US & Canada (2001), and the American Mathematical Society's Leroy P Steele Prize (2007).

Financial Aid and Scholarship

Most of our master's degree students receive partial scholarship support that is based on a combination of need and academic merit.

Additional Programs

The department also offers a combined BA/MA degree in mathematics, as well as a post-baccalaureate program for students with bachelor's degrees in any field who would like to expand or deepen their mathematical skills for use in the workplace or in preparation for graduate programs in mathematics or a life or social science.