The general aim of the program leading to the Ph.D. in mathematics is to prepare students to become productive research scholars capable of communicating their knowledge to students and to the mathematical community. The program is planned to develop in the student a fundamental understanding of certain basic fields of mathematics, a deep understanding of the major field of interest, the ability to formulate and recognize significant research problems, and the ability to analyze problems and reach solutions and to transmit ideas to others.

The program of study and research requires at least three academic years of full-time study and research, or the equivalent over a longer period, beyond the baccalaureate and, typically, may involve as many as four years.

Requirements for Admission

In addition to the general University requirements for admission to doctoral study, an applicant's undergraduate major preferably should have been in mathematics. Students who are deficient in their mathematical preparation must make up such deficiencies.

Program of Study

In the first two years of study the student acquires a general education in mathematical science through a program of coursework planned in conjunction with the Graduate Director. During this period the student completes preliminary examinations in four areas and at least two courses in areas not examined.

Following the preliminary examinations, the student completes the general education requirement and begins the process of specialization. As soon as possible, the student selects a dissertation advisor. A committee consisting of the advisor and three other faculty members is formed to guide the student's subsequent progress toward the degree. Readiness to begin the dissertation is marked by completion of the qualifying examination, which should take place in the third year of study.

Upon completion of the qualifying examination and satisfaction of the appropriate research tool and communication skills requirements, the student is advanced to candidacy and begins work on the dissertation.

Program Requirements for the PhD in Mathematics:

1. Credits: A minimum of 60 graduate credits in mathematics as approved by
    the advisor, with an average of B or better.

2.  Successful Completion of four Written Preliminary Examinations: The
    preliminary examinations are offered each year at the beginning of the Fall
    and Spring terms. A syllabus for each examination is available in the
    departmental office and in the departmental webpage. The student must
    successfully complete the examinations in four of the following seven areas:
    algebra, topology, complex analysis, real analysis, probability, applied
    statistics, and mathematical statistics. At least two examinations shall be
    attempted by the beginning of the second year of study and it is expected
    that all four examinations shall be attempted after no more than five
    semesters of study.  A student who fails one of the preliminary
    examinations may retake the examination one more time.  Only two tries
    are permitted in each subject.  Any deviation from this policy requires
    approval of the Executive Committee and the Graduate Studies Committee.

    a)  be registered for 12 credits per semester, or
    b)  hold a full assistantship and (i) complete one academic year in such a
         position, (ii) be registered for a minimum of 9 credits per term, and
         (iii) satisfactory completion of assigned duties.

6. Continuous Registration of Doctoral Students: All students enrolled in
    the doctoral program must maintain continuous registration for each fall and
    spring session, until they have completed all program requirements.
    Minimum registration consists of 3 credits of approved course work or
    registration for dissertation load (899 courses only). When this is not possible,
    a student should apply for a leave of absence for up to four semesters. The
    duration of a leave does not count against deadlines for the comprehensive
    exam or degree requirements. Being on leave means a student is not working
    with University personnel to complete his/hers degree. A student who simply
    "drops out" and tries to return may have difficulty obtaining retroactive leave
    and readmission.  Note: Students with a full assistantship must be registered
    with full-time status for the duration of the assistantship. International
    students must be registered full-time for the duration of their studies.

7.  MAT 899: Students must be registered for Doctoral Dissertation, MAT 899,
    during the semester in which the degree is conferred. Credits for this course
    do not count toward the 60 credits mentioned in item 1.

Admission to Candidacy

A student is admitted to candidacy for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy upon the following:

1. Satisfactory record in course and research study;
2. Completion of the University residence requirements;
3. Satisfactory completion of research tool requirement;
4. Satisfactory completion of the comprehensive and qualifying examinations.

Dissertation

The dissertation is based on independent research by the student and should constitute a significant original contribution to mathematics or statistics.  The dissertation must be approved by a majority of the student's Advisory Committee and the Chair of the Department. It must conform to university requirements for preparation and submission. More information is available at the Graduate Admissions office.  A copy of the dissertation should be given to each member Advisory Committee and displayed in the Department of Mathematics Lounge at least three weeks prior to its defense. The dissertation is defended publicly.

Ancillary Duties

In addition to the completion of course requirements, satisfactory performance in some ancillary teaching, research, or practicum duties contributing to the academic development is required, whether or not the student receives financial support from this institution. These duties will be assigned with educational objectives in mind.