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Master of Arts in
Mathematics

Program of Study

programofstudy

The curriculum is divided into two phases, general courses and statistics-specific courses. Finish with a capstone project that will allow you to place all your learned theory into real-world problem-solving.

The sequence includes courses like Complex Analysis, in which you study analytical functions, complex numbers, special functions, analytics continuation, and concepts like Cauchy's theorem and Laurent series. Statistics courses like Analysis of Categorical data will teach you about relative risk, log-linear models and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel procedures, while Sample Survey Methodology will give you tools and techniques for conducting research.


General Sequence

Mathematics (18 credits minimum as advised) including:

  • Master's Seminar: General OR
  • Master's Thesis

Supporting courses (0-12 credits)

  • Courses in other fields as approved by the advisor

Recommended courses (At least three)

  • Real Analysis
  • Complex Analysis
  • Algebra I
  • Topology I

Statistics Sequence

Mathematics (18 credits minimum as advised) including:

  • Master's Seminar: Statistics OR
  • Master's Thesis

Supporting courses (0-12 credits)

  • Courses as approved by the advisor.

Recommended courses

  • Introduction to Theory of Statistics
  • Introduction to Theory of Statistics II
  • Methods of Data Analysis I
  • Methods of Data Analysis II
  • Introduction to Bayesian Inference I


Capstone Experience

Option 1: Master’s Seminar in General, Teaching or Statistics
Research 2-3 topics in mathematical literature and report your findings in the form of an integrative presentation in front of peers and faculty.

Option 2: Master’s Thesis
Submit a thesis and give an oral presentation on its results


Ancillary Duties

Teaching, research, or practicum duties contributing to academic development


Additional Information

See the Graduate Bulletin for details.

For more information, contact Marco Varisco at [email protected].

Research

Put theory into practice with a capstone project, which culminates the master's experience. Designed to give you experiential learning, the capstone consists of completing a master's seminar, inclusive of teaching research or practicum duties, or a master's thesis, which entails an involved paper presentation. Demonstrate your learned knowledge and showcase your accomplishments throughout either track in preparation for your next career step.

Career Outcomes

A master's degree in mathematics provides you with vital skills, including problem solving, logic and abstract thought. Graduates have gone on to PhD programs, teaching, and to high-level jobs in industry and in the public sector.

Potential career paths include: Teacher, Budget analyst, Data/information scientist, Computer engineer, Financial planner, Operations manager, Economist, Auditor, Risk analyst, and Biostatistician

careers

International Students

This degree is designated as a STEM program. International students maintaining F-1 status are allowed to apply for up to 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) following completion/graduation from their degree program. Currently, this degree program is also designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as an eligible degree for the F-1 STEM OPT work authorization extension; students who secure qualifying employment may be eligible to apply for the STEM OPT extension for a cumulative total of up to 36 months of F-1 OPT work authorization.

Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Option

If you’re a current UAlbany undergraduate student with at least a 3.2 GPA, you can save time and money by beginning your graduate degree coursework as early as your junior year. Up to 12 academic credits, billed at the undergraduate rate, will count towards both degrees – so you can complete your combined program in only 5 years and spend less than you would if you completed each program separately.

Contact your undergraduate advisor to see if you’re eligible and learn about your combined graduate program options.

UAlbany graduate with confetti at Commencement.
Admissions Requirements
Deadlines
  • Fall: Rolling
  • Spring: Rolling
  • Summer: Rolling

There is no departmental assistantship consideration for this program.

Required Application Materials
  • Transcripts from all schools attended
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Statement of goals

The statement is generally one to two pages discussing what you have to offer the program and what you wish to get out of the program.  It should include a brief description of the applicant's field of interest, related background, desired area of study and research emphasis or career goals. 

admissions
Student Learning Objectives


Learning objectives that UAlbany students are expected to attain through their course of study within their academic program.

Master of Arts
  1. Gain advanced understanding of three areas of mathematics.
  2. Develop deep understanding and working knowledge of one chosen area of mathematics, which can come from one of the areas of the faculty expertise, such as analysis, algebra, topology or statistics.
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