Master of Science in Mathematics
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the College of Arts in Sciences provides dynamic learning experiences for graduate students. Pursue a Master of Science in Mathematics at the University of South Alabama. This graduate program is designed to meet the varied needs and goals of most students seeking advanced degrees in mathematics. The course of study accommodates students interested in traditional and modern mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics and computer science. Faculty provide small class sizes and personalized attention.
Why Earn a Master of Science in Mathematics?
A master's degree in mathematics will prepare you for a broad range of careers. A number of graduates of our program have decided to continue their studies in Ph.D. programs across the country. Many others are teaching at high schools, community colleges, and universities across the gulf coast region, while the rest of our graduates find positions in industry or government.
Careers in Mathematics and Statistics
For career information, visit the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. You can download a brochure that lists over 50 job titles, and dozens of industries related to mathematical sciences.
Students are admitted for both the fall and spring semesters. Click here to view the latest admissions requirements for the Master of Science in Mathematics. We follow the College's deadlines for applications, found here
https://www.southalabama.edu/departments/admissions/graduate-deadlines.html
The MS in Mathematics program requires 32 hours and is typically completed in four semesters. Students must take at least two 2-course sequences chosen from areas such as Algebra, Analysis, and Topology. In addition, students are required to take MA 592, the one credit graduate seminar, at least twice. Effective Fall 2023, students who do not complete a thesis are also required to complete a project-based comprehensive examination.
Students who are considering pursuing a Ph.D. after our program are strongly encouraged to complete a thesis. The thesis is completed under the direction of one of our faculty members. Students pursuing the thesis option are eligible to register for MA 599 for up to 6 credits. More information on writing a thesis can be found on the Graduate School Thesis/Dissertation Preparation page.
Further program details can be found in the Bulletin and in the Department Policies and Procedures for the MS Degree Program in Mathematics document.
The USA accelerated bachelor’s to master’s (ABM) in Mathematics provides exceptional undergraduate students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree at an accelerated pace in Mathematics. ABM students may count up to 12 credit hours of graduate course work towards both the undergraduate and graduate degrees in approved programs. ABM students typically complete the master’s degree within one academic year after completing the undergraduate degree.
Mathematics and Statistics majors are encouraged to apply for the ABM program. This program is designed to allow the student to complete both the Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics and the Master’s degree in Mathematics in five years.
To gain admission, students must complete a degree plan (typically during their junior year) that is approved by the undergraduate coordinator and graduate coordinator. Interested students are encouraged to discuss their plans with the undergraduate coordinator and the graduate coordinator as early as possible.
A complete description of the program can be found here.
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics will offer a new graduate certificate in applied statistics starting Fall 2023.
The Graduate Certificate program in Applied Statistics is a four-course program that can be completed in three to four semesters alongside a graduate degree program in another discipline or as a stand-alone program by working professionals interested in expanding their knowledge in analyzing and interpreting data. It will prepare students for the job market where data analyses skills are preferred.
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics has a limited number of graduate assistantships available. Each provides a stipend of $10,000 and full tuition waiver. Applicants can indicate their interest on the admissions application.
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics treats its graduate students with special care. Faculty members do their best to make sure that student experiences are rewarding. To this end, the department emphasizes excellence in teaching, and encourages the professional growth of its faculty through study, research and consulting.
