Program Overview

Master of Science in Mathematics

The Master of Science in Mathematics program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of general mathematical theories and basic knowledge in their major. The program aims to equip students with the skills to conduct research or gain practical skills in applied fields.

Program Goals

Students enrolled in the master program will acquire broad understandings of general mathematical theories and learn enough basic knowledge in their major. They will be capable of conducting some form of research or gaining enough practical skills in applied fields. Graduates are able to teach at liberal arts schools or work at research institutes. Some graduates may continue studying for academic careers, and others will work in non-mathematical professions.

Time Limits

The general study period is three years. In exceptional cases, students are allowed a maximum of five years to complete their study (counting leave of absence).

Major Research Areas

• Partial differential equations
• Mathematical physics
• Fractal geometry
• Ordinary differential equations and dynamical systems
• Algebra
• Topology and its applications

Advisory System

Each master student is supervised by their advisor. Under the advisor's guidance, the student must submit a master plan of graduate work by the second week of enrollment. The student should take enough credit hour courses required by the major and fulfill other non-major courses requirements. Both the major courses and general courses should be completed by the end of the second year. By the end of the third semester, the student should pass the midterm exam spelled out in the SCUT Guidelines on Master Programs. The intern practice should be done by the end of the fourth semester.

Credit Requirements

The total credit hours are 47. Minimum course requirement is 32 credit hours (major credit courses no less than 24 credit hours, and non-major courses no less than 10 credit hours). Non-course credit requirements are as follows:

• Thesis: 12 credit hours
• Literature research and study proposal: 1 credit hour
• Research activities: 2 credit hours

Thesis

Each master student should submit a thesis plan and research proposal at the beginning of the 5th semester. No specific requirement on whether to publish the research in thesis before the defense. The defense will be conducted according to SCUT Degree Regulations and SCUT Guidelines on Master Theses.