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University Catalog 2018-2019 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Mathematics, M.S.

The Mathematics M.S. degree is offered in two options. Option 1 is a flexible program that can be concentrated on pure mathematics or incorporate elements of both pure and applied mathematics. Option 2 emphasizes applied mathematics. Both options prepare the student for teaching in a community college, a Ph.D. program in the respective areas of focus, and for higher mathematical work in industry, business, and government.

Admission to the Program

In addition to submitting a University Admissions Application through Cal State Apply, applicants must also apply separately to the Department. Application forms are available in the Department of Mathematics or on the Department’s website (http://www.calstatela.edu/academic/math). Completed applications and unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (except Cal State L.A.) must be received by the Department before action on admission can be taken.   Official transcripts need to be submitted to the Graduate Studies Office, ADM 702, before the deadline.  Please visit the Graduate Studies Office website (http://www.calstatela.edu/graduateadmissions) for Department deadlines.

Initially all students will be conditionally accepted into the MS in Mathematics program. The minimum GPA requirement for admission to the Department is 2.75 in upper division courses in the applicant’s major.  Students with a Mathematics degree who have a GPA of between 2.5 and 2.74 might be admitted but will be required to take upper division mathematics courses (to be specified  by the graduate advisor) to strengthen their preparation.  The GPA earned in these courses must be 3.0 or higher.  
 Before taking courses counted towards the master’s degree students must be in classified graduate status. In order to attain classified graduate status, students with Mathematics degree or an equivalent degree must have a minimum B or better grade in each of MATH 4650 and MATH 4550 (or equivalent courses at other institutions) for Option 1 (General Mathematics); or a minimum B or better grade in each of MATH 4650 and MATH 4570 (or equivalent courses at other institutions) for Option 2 (Applied Mathematics).   

In order to attain classified graduate status, students without a bachelor’s degree in mathematics are required to take pre-requisite core courses in mathematics (see Department website for a list of such courses), including MATH 4650 and MATH 4550 for Option 1, or MATH 4650 and MATH 4570 for Option 2, with grade requirements as described above.  They must be able to complete all prerequisite requirements within two semesters of being admitted as a conditionally classified graduate student.

Requirements for the Degree (minimum 30 units)

A minimum of 30 units is required, with at least 15 in 5000-level courses. Students must successfully complete either comprehensive examinations or a thesis in addition to course requirements.

Comprehensive Examination or Thesis

A. Comprehensive Examination

Students must pass one analysis exam and one exam from their respective option with an average grade of B or better.  

  • Analysis Exam: Complex Analysis or Linear Analysis
  • Option 1 Exam: Abstract Algebra or Topology    
  • Option 2 Exam: Numerical Analysis or Probability

Students should expect to take the comprehensive examinations (MATH 5960 ) the semester they complete all course work on their program and must comply with college and departmental requirements (see department website).

B. Thesis

Students may be permitted, in compliance with departmental policy (see department website), to do directed research with a faculty member and write a thesis in lieu of taking comprehensive examinations.

Option 1: General Mathematics (30 units)

Required Courses (15 units)

Select one from:

Electives (15 units)

Select from 4000- or 5000-level math courses, excluding Math 4021, 4550, 4650, 4900, 4901, 4950, and 4960. Advanced Topics courses (Math 5500 - 5540) are highly recommended, and up to two of them may be taken. With graduate advisor approval, 3 units of directed study (Math 5980 or 4990) and 3 units in related areas may be taken.

Option 2: Applied Mathematics (30 units)

Required Courses (15 units)

Select one from:

Select one from:

Select one from:

Select one from the following courses for additional depth:

Electives (15 units)

Select from 4000- or 5000-level math courses, excluding Math 4021, 4570, 4650, 4900, 4901, 4950 and 4960. Advanced Topics courses (Math 5500 - 5540) are highly recommended, and up to two of them may be taken. With graduate advisor approval, 3 units of directed study (Math 5980 or Math 4990) and 3 units in related areas may be taken.