Master of Arts in Mathematics

The Mathematics Department offers the degree of Master of Arts (MA) in Mathematics.  The MA entails study of advanced mathematics, typically culminating in a substantial thesis or final project demonstrating expertise in a particular area of mathematics. It is intended for students who plan to pursue a PhD subsequently, as well as those who intend to work outside academia. A broad range of specialties is possible; research interests of department faculty include algebra, analysis, combinatorics, control theory, dynamical systems, geometry, numerical analysis, partial differential equations, probability, and statistics. The program offers three options for the MA degree, as detailed in the Degree Requirements section of the Graduate School Catalog. College-wide requirements for graduate students may be found in the Graduate School Catalog.

Job Placement

After graduation, our MA students usually obtain jobs in government or the private sector (e.g., financial, insurance, telecommunication), as well as teaching jobs at junior colleges.

Admission

FAQs

The prerequisites for admission to our graduate program are:

  • an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a program of study in mathematics;

  • a record of achievement that shows strong promise of success in graduate school, including a 3.0 cumulative grade-point average in undergraduate studies and a 3.0 grade-point average in mathematics; and

    • Note: Please use the following GPA calculator to determine your GPA if your degree-granting institution uses a grade/point system different from the one used in the U.S. To assist the Admissions Committee, you can list your converted GPA on your CV and the online application. Graduate Admissions confirms GPA estimates using this same GPA calculator. 

  • coursework in abstract algebra, linear algebra, and advanced calculus or introduction to analysis (comparable to KU's MATH 500, 558, and 590.)

It is beneficial to have some preparation in probability/statistics (comparable to MATH 627/628) and/or numerical analysis (comparable to MATH 581). Although not required, we also recommend that applicants take introductory courses in complex analysis (comparable to MATH 646), differential equations (comparable to MATH 647), and/or topology. You can view a description of any of these classes by searching for them here: https://catalog.ku.edu/liberal-arts-sciences/math/#courseinventory.

Please also note that the Mathematics Department currently does not require the general or subject Graduate Record Examination (GRE). 

Only our PhD students are guaranteed funding. If funding is an issue, we recommend looking for funded Master's programs or applying to our PhD program, which offers 10-15 fully-funded spots each academic year.

If helpful, you can estimate tuition costs using KU’s tuition calculator. Be sure to select “Nonresident”, if you are not a Kansas resident. You will then select “Graduate Student” in “Liberal Arts & Sciences.” MA students pursuing Option 3 need 36 semester hours to graduate.

The following materials must be submitted online:

  • Applicant's résumé/curriculum vitae, (please do NOT include your GRE score)

    • Please use the following GPA calculator to determine your GPA if your degree-granting institution uses a grade/point system different from the one used in the U.S. To assist the Admissions Committee, you can list your converted GPA on your CV and the online application. Graduate Admissions confirms GPA estimates using this same GPA calculator. 

  • Statement of Purpose

    • In your personal statement you should indicate your mathematical background and interests and how these make you a good fit for the program. It is helpful for you to mention a professor or professors in our department whose research you find interesting. 

  • Copies of official transcripts from each university or college you have attended.

    • Please do not upload grade reports from a student-accessed online portal. Transcripts should be issued from your university's Registrar's office, these usually have a seal/signature on them to denotes they are official.

    • Official transcripts (sent directly to KU from the Registrar) are not required until after you have been admitted into the Ph.D. program.

  • Three letters of recommendation

    • Contact information for your letter writers will be submitted in your application. Letter writers will then receive a request to submit a letter on your behalf electronically.

  • List of Textbooks

    • A list of textbooks used in the applicant's mathematics courses beyond calculus (please include authors)

To begin in the spring semester, submit an application by October 1. For fall or summer, submit an application by May 1.

Application review begins immediately following the deadline. Please aim to have all materials submitted by the deadline (this includes letters of recommendation).

You can read our English proficiency requirements for admission at this link.