Master of Arts in Mathematics

The Mathematics Department offers the degree of Master of Arts (M.A.) in Mathematics. The M.A. is a coursework only degree with the option of culminating in a thesis demonstrating expertise in a particular area of mathematics. This degree is intended for students who plan to pursue a Ph.D. subsequently, as well as those who intend to work outside academia. A broad range of specialties are possible; research interests of department faculty include algebra, analysis, combinatorics, control theory, dynamical systems, geometry, numerical analysis, partial differential equations, probability, and statistics. Full degree requirements can be found on the Math MA Academic Catalog page. College-wide requirements for graduate students may be found on the Graduate School page of the Academic 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

 

What are the prerequisites for admission?

The prerequisites for admission to our graduate program are:

  • an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in mathematics or a closely related field;
  • 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
  • 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). 

Does the department provide financial assistance?

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. Please note: An MA is not needed to apply to the PhD program.

How much is tuition?

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 need 30 semester hours to graduate. Most students complete the program in 3 semesters.

What materials are needed to apply?

The following materials must be submitted online:

  • Applicant's résumé/curriculum vitae, (please do NOT include your GRE score if you have one)
    • 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. A WES evaluation is not needed.
  • 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 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)
  • All transcripts, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency scores should be received by KU by the application due date for your application to be considered complete!

When are applications due?

Applications open each year in September. To begin in the spring semester, submit an application by October 2; for fall or summer, submit an application by Jan 6. 

When will I be notified of an admission decision?

Application review begins immediately following the deadline. Please aim to have all materials submitted by the deadline.

What are your English proficiency requirements?

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

Are application fee waivers available?

No - unfortunately we are unable to provide application fee waivers.