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.