PhD students in the Math Department and students enrolled in other UW PhD programs are eligible to earn an MA degree in Mathematics.
1. Credit requirements
Complete 30 or more graduate credits. These must include 24 or more credits in mathematics (or cross listed) courses at level 500 or above.
2. Courses
(i) Pass with a grade B or higher eight courses in Mathematics (or cross listed). These courses should be of level 600 or above. The graduate advisor may also approve to have courses at the 500 level counted for this requirement (but typically no introductory courses such as Math 521, Math 541 or Math 551).
(ii) Pass with a grade of B or higher four of the following core courses: Math 703, Math 704, Math/CS 714, Math/CS 715, Math 721, Math 722, Math 725, Math 733, Math 734, Math 741, Math 742, Math 751, Math 752, Math 761, Math 770, Math 771, Math 773, Math 776.
(iii) Reading and Research (Math 990) credits cannot be counted for the MA degree.
3. Residence
Complete 16 graduate level credits (500 level or above, no audits or pass/fail) taken as a graduate student at UW-Madison.
4. Computing
Complete an advanced computer science course which involves substantial programming. Suitable courses are: CS 367, CS 536, CS 537, CS 564, CS 704, CS 714, CS 715, CS 719, CS 730, CS 799, CS 883, or CS 884. Other courses require prior approval of the Graduate Studies Coordinator or the Graduate Program Committee.
This requirement is waived for Ph.D. students if two qualifying exams are passed.
5. Grades
Achieve a grade point average of 3.0 or better in mathematics and cross listed courses.
Time Limit
The Master’s program is designed to be completed in two years. Candidates who do not complete it in three will not be allowed to continue.
Satisfactory Progress Criteria
1. Maintain a grade point average of 3.0 or better.
2. Complete two courses for six graduate credits each semester.
3. Complete the program in three years.
Other MA programs
Masters – Foundation of Advanced Studies is a standalone degree for students not in a PhD program.
For information on a Joint Master’s Degree in Mathematics and Education, please contact the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
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