Admission requirements

Master of Arts or Master of Science in Mathematics, Master of Science in Statistics, Master of Science in Mathematics for Teachers.

In addition to meeting the University admission requirements, students seeking regular admission status in a master’s programs are expected to have completed specific mathematics or statistics courses: for the M.A./M.S. in Mathematics, courses in linear algebra, abstract algebra, mathematical analysis and differential equations; for the M.A./M.S. in Statistics, courses in linear algebra, abstract algebra, mathematical analysis, differential equations and basic statistics methods; for the M.S. in Mathematics for Teachers, courses in linear algebra, abstract algebra, mathematical analysis and college geometry.

The M.A./M.S. in Mathematics and Statistics programs are designed for the student who wishes to prepare for community college teaching, industrial work in mathematics or statistics, or further advanced work toward a Ph.D. in mathematics or statistics.  The M.S. in Mathematics for Teachers program offers advanced training and specialized courses for secondary school teachers of mathematics.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences

Applicants will be expected to have the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in a mathematics or statistics containing an adequate background in computer science. Applicants with degrees in related disciplines will be considered provided the applicant demonstrates a strong mathematical proficiency. Applicants must follow the University admissions instructions for graduate applicants. In addition the GREs are required, both the general test and the subject test in mathematics.

The Ph.D. in mathematical sciences at Portland State University differs significantly from the traditional model of Ph.D. education in mathematical sciences. While mathematics is at the core, the program aims to develop professionals who have versatility, who are conversant in other fields, and who can communicate effectively with people in other professional cultures. The broad-based training will prepare candidates for industry, government, and higher education. The program prepares the candidate to be well grounded in his or her field, yet conversant with several subfields by dedicating approximately 25 percent of the credit hour requirements to professional development, cross-disciplinary experiences, and allied area coursework. Students take a concentration of allied area courses, outside the department, in one or more of mathematics and statistics many natural partner disciplines, including, computer science, engineering, physics, biology, economics, finance, urban studies and planning, medicine, or public health. The courses are chosen with the assistance of the allied area adviser to form a coherent area of study directly relevant to the student’s goals.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education

Candidates in this program must currently have (or complete during their program) a master’s degree equivalent to the M.A/M.S. in Mathematics or the M.S. in Mathematics for Teachers at Portland State University. Applications must be received at least two terms prior to the term of admission. For more complete information on the program, write to the Fariborz Maseeh Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Portland State University.