Mathematical Sciences (PhD, MA)

Our MA in Mathematics and PhD in Mathematical Sciences programs emphasize a broad understanding across multiple areas within the mathematical sciences. Both programs require coursework in at least three different areas among the department's five areas of concentration: algebra, analysis, combinatorics, geometry/topology and statistics.

For detailed descriptions of our courses and degree programs, please refer to the .

Time to degree

  • MA Degree: Typically completed in two years, although it is possible to finish in three semesters.
  • PhD Degree: The duration varies. Students entering the PhD program with a bachelor's degree can expect to spend an additional three to four years after obtaining their Master's degree. The primary focus of the PhD is the dissertation, the timeline for which depends significantly on individual background and dissertation plans.

The Path to a Master's Degree

The master's degree requires:

  • A minimum of 30 graduate credit-hours
  • An oral examination or, in some cases, an MA thesis in place of the oral exam

Typically, students take three courses per semester. For detailed requirements, please see the .

The Path to a PhD

The main requirements for the PhD, beyond the master's degree, are:

  • Admission to candidacy
  • Writing a PhD dissertation

After obtaining a master's degree, the next step is finding a dissertation advisor, who will provide guidance through both of these milestones. The process of seeking an advisor may start in the fourth semester or earlier for students entering with a master's degree. By that time, most students have a proposed area of specialization and know and are known by faculty members working in that area. Students are free to approach any professor as a potential advisor; the matching of student to advisor is by mutual agreement between a student interested in the advisor’s research area and an advisor confident in the student’s suitability for the proposed research.

Once the student and advisor have decided on a research area, the student may take the Admission to Candidacy Exam. This is an oral examination in which the student presents background material for their proposed research topic.

After being admitted to candidacy, students need to register for only one credit of coursework per semester, typically Math 699: Dissertation.

Why choose to pursue your MA or PhD in mathematics at ßÙßÇÂþ»­?

  • ßÙßÇÂþ»­ was rated among the top 20 'Best Buys' and one of the premier public universities in the Northeast by Fiske Guide to Colleges in 2019.
  • Our graduates have secured tenure-track and tenured faculty positions at various institutions, from small colleges to research universities in the U.S. and abroad.
  • We offer opportunities for professional growth beyond academia.Our small class sizes foster lively interaction between students and faculty.
  • Our welcoming and diverse campus is located in beautiful upstate New York.
  • We attract outstanding students and faculty from all over the world who are partners in active discovery.

Take a Virtual Tour of Campus

Questions?