Updated May 30, 2008
The doctoral program in Mathematics is no longer accepting students, and has been modified to become the proposal for a Ph.D. in Computational Sciences. This doctorate has been proposed to begin Fall 2009, and a decision is expected in August or September 2008. Applications will be accepted once the program has been approved, but we encourage expressions of interest from potential students at any time.
Introduction
The doctoral program in mathematics is designed for individuals who are skilled at independent study and show promise for original research. Doctoral students have the opportunity to develop teaching skills in an environment that emphasizes the compatibility of good teaching with good research. The Department of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science has exceptional strength in algebra, biomathematics (particularly, in biological modeling using dynamical systems), logic and foundations, and statistics, thus, most doctoral students write dissertations in one of these areas. The degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics is conferred upon recognition that a significant research project has been successfully completed. The major criterion for deciding whether a candidate's research merits the Ph.D. degree is the judgment that all or part of the doctoral dissertation would be acceptable for publication by a major mathematical or statistical journal.
Course of Study:
On entering the program, each student is assigned an academic advisor by the Graduate Committee and, with the advisor's assistance, prepares a course of study for his/her first two years. Students are required to complete four yearlong graduate-level courses, including one in algebra and one in analysis. After successful completion of the Preliminary Examination, the remainder of the student's program is prepared in consultation with his/her Doctoral Committee Chairperson. The third year of graduate study is normally one during which the student specializes in a particular area, e.g. the theory of semigroups or biomathematics and studies a foreign language (if necessary), in preparation for the Qualifying Examination and language exam. Candidates the various specializations should consult with their advisor regarding taking advantage of the unique interdisciplinary research environment offered by the MSCS Department where its faculty interests and expertise ranging from pure and applied mathematics to computer science, statistics, mathematical biology and bioinformatics. For example, students specializing in biomathematics should consider discussing with the advisor any interest in pursuing related coursework in bioinformatics or applied computing.
Language Requirements:
Advanced study in a particular area of research often involves being able to read pertinent literature in a foreign language, usually French, German or Russian and, for this reason, the student's Doctoral Committee may require reading proficiency in mathematics in a foreign language. Proficiency in a foreign language is demonstrated by passing an examination administered by the Graduate School or the Department. If required, the student should expect to pass the language examination by the end of the third year.
