Updated November 28, 2007
The Department of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science (MSCS) at Marquette University offers Master's degree study with specialization in Mathematics. In addition to study in pure or applied mathematics, this degree specialization can be taken with a primary focus in statistics or even by combining classical mathematics graduate study with coursework in computer science and/or statistics – all within the same academic department. Although MSCS does not currently offer a Master's degree in statistics, Master's degree study in mathematics can be taken with a course work emphasis in statistics -- that is, almost all course work in could be taken in statistics however the degree specialization would not be officially called a statistics specialization. Upon completion of their Master's study, students will have the background for teaching at the college level, pursuing doctoral work in mathematics or statistics, or a career in industry.
Admission Requirements:
Admission to the MSCS Program with specialization in Mathematics requires an undergraduate degree in mathematics or a related field, and should include at least twelve upper division semester hours in the intended field of study.
All application paperwork is handled by the Marquette University Office of Graduate Admissions (please see http://www.grad.mu.edu/future/apply.shtml to download a PDF version of the application form or the online application URL).
U.S. Postal Address:
Graduate School
Holthusen Hall 305
Marquette University
PO Box 1881
Milwaukee, WI 53201-1881 USA
The Graduate School has adopted a system for self-assembled applications. You are very strongly encouraged to collect all application requirements and mail them together, along with your application (or a copy of your online application) in one envelope, with the exception of any required standardized test scores. If you have a copy of the test scores, you are encouraged to submit these as well (although they will be considered unofficial until we receive the official scores from the testing agency). Each letter of recommendation and transcript must be enclosed in their own sealed envelopes, signed across the seal by the issuing party.
To apply for admission to this program, applicants should send to the Graduate School:
- A completed application form and fee.
- Official transcripts from all current and previous colleges/universities except Marquette.
- Three letters of recommendation addressing the applicant's academic qualifications for graduate study in the intended program.
- For financial aid consideration, the GRE is recommended.
- (For international applicants only) a TOEFL score or other acceptable proof of English proficiency.
Course of Study:
Individuals in this program must complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of course work. Fifteen semester hours must be at the graduate level, including year-long graduate-level courses in at least two of the following areas: algebra, analysis, applied discrete mathematics, topology, statistics, operations research, and computer science. Under the above requirements, students craft and follow an individualized course of study prepared in cooperation with the student's advisor and approved by the MSCS Graduate Committee. The individualized course of study should be completed at the beginning of the student's studies and updated regularly. There are two options available: Plan A (Thesis) or Plan B (Essay). Under Plan A, a thesis and 24 semester hours (8 courses) are required. At least 12 of those semester hours must be taken at the strictly graduate (200) level. Under Plan B, a 10-20 page essay and 30 semester hours are required. At least 15 semester hours must be taken at the strictly graduate (200) level. Students will automatically enter under Plan B and will need to consult with their advisor and the Graduate Committee if they wish to transfer to Plan A. The Master's thesis must be an original contribution to the discipline for which six hours of credit are normally given. Near the end of a MSCS Master's study program, current practice is for students to be comprehensively tested on seven courses from their program, including two graduate-level sequences and at least fivegraduate-level courses.
