M.S. in Kinesiology - Sport Administration concentration
The M.S. in Kinesiology with a Sport Administration concentration at Montclair State Un...
M.S. in Mathematics
Montclair, New Jersey
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The M.S. in Mathematics at Montclair State University is a 30-credit-hour program that typically takes two years for full-time students. It focuses on pure mathematics, offering a comprehensive understanding of foundational areas. Students can choose from a capstone project or an M.S. thesis as their culminating experience, allowing them to engage in either a comprehensive application of their knowledge or an in-depth research endeavor. The program also offers a separate concentration in Mathematics Education for those interested in enhancing their teaching skills, although the general M.S. focuses on a broader mathematical foundation.
STEM Designated: Yes, the Master of Science (M.S.) in Mathematics at Montclair State University is explicitly STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage for international students, as it qualifies them for a 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension beyond the initial 12 months, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. This designation highlights the program's rigorous quantitative, analytical, and technical focus, aligning it with high-demand fields in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Mathematics provides a solid grounding in core theoretical mathematics. Key courses often include "Real Variables," "Linear Algebra," "Abstract Algebra," and "Probability." Elective courses allow students to delve deeper into theoretical areas such as "Number Theory," "Topology," and "Graph Theory." The program is designed to cultivate a "mathematician's mentality," fostering critical and creative thinking. It also integrates modern methods of computing, ensuring students are well-versed in contemporary mathematical tools.
Research Focus: The Department of Mathematics at Montclair State University has a vibrant research environment with faculty engaged in a broad range of topics in both pure and applied mathematics. For the M.S. in Mathematics (general), the research focus primarily lies within pure mathematics, including areas such as: Combinatorics, Graph Theory, Number Theory, and Probability. Students pursuing the thesis option have the opportunity to engage in original research under the guidance of faculty members, contributing to the advancement of mathematical knowledge. The department also encourages interdisciplinary connections, embracing and advancing connections among the sciences, arts, humanities, and business through mathematics.
Industry Engagement: Montclair State University's M.S. in Mathematics program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in various sectors, indicating a focus on industry readiness. The curriculum provides the advanced material needed for positions in "business, industry, and government," as well as for teaching roles at the high school and community college levels. The program emphasizes developing analytical and problem-solving skills, which are highly valued by employers in fields such as basic research, engineering, and finance. While direct industry partnerships for internships may be more prominent in the Applied Mathematics M.S., the fundamental mathematical training in the M.S. in Mathematics equips graduates with transferable skills applicable across numerous professional domains.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Mathematics at Montclair State University inherently possesses a global perspective due to the universal nature of mathematics itself. Mathematical concepts and theories are applicable worldwide and form the foundation for advancements in science, technology, and problem-solving across borders. The program's mission to prepare students for "an ever-changing society" implies an understanding of the global challenges and opportunities where mathematical expertise is vital. While there might not be specific courses on global mathematical systems, the rigorous training in abstract reasoning and problem-solving equips graduates to contribute to international research efforts and address complex issues that have global implications. The diverse student body at Montclair State also enriches the learning environment with varied cultural and academic perspectives.
Location
Montclair, New Jersey
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 19916
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 83 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Montclair State University offers a range of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Presidential Scholarships: The university’s prestigious Presidential Scholarships are awarded to top-performing international students demonstrating exceptional academic records and leadership skills. These scholarships provide substantial financial support and are highly competitive.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate international students have access to departmental scholarships and graduate assistantships. Assistantships may include tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities, offering both financial aid and valuable professional experience.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Mathematics from Montclair State University provides graduates with a deep and rigorous understanding of theoretical mathematics. This STEM-designated program focuses on developing advanced analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are highly transferable and sought after in various sectors. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers requiring sophisticated quantitative abilities, as well as for further academic pursuits.
Mathematician (Research/Applied): Conducting advanced research in pure or applied mathematics, developing new theories, or applying mathematical techniques to solve complex problems in various fields. This can be in academic institutions (often requiring further doctoral study), government labs (e.g., NSA), or private research firms.
University/Community College Instructor: Teaching mathematics at the undergraduate level, particularly at community colleges or as a lecturer/adjunct faculty at universities. An M.S. provides the necessary depth of subject matter expertise.
Data Scientist/Analyst: Applying advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational methods to large datasets to extract insights, build predictive models, and inform decision-making in industries like technology, finance, e-commerce, and healthcare. Graduates' strong foundational math skills are excellent for understanding underlying algorithms.
Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Utilizing complex mathematical models and algorithms to analyze financial markets, price securities, manage risk, and develop trading strategies within investment banks, hedge funds, and other financial institutions.
Actuary: Assessing and managing financial risks, particularly in the insurance and pension industries. Actuaries use advanced probability, statistics, and financial theory to analyze future uncertain events and design financial products.
Operations Research Analyst: Applying mathematical modeling, optimization techniques, and statistical analysis to improve efficiency and decision-making in complex systems, such as supply chains, logistics, and resource allocation, for businesses or government agencies.
Software Developer/Algorithm Engineer: Designing, developing, and optimizing algorithms for software applications, often in fields requiring strong mathematical foundations like cybersecurity (cryptography), artificial intelligence, machine learning, or scientific computing.
Statistician: Designing experiments, surveys, and collecting data, then using statistical methods to analyze and interpret the data, providing insights for research, product development, or policy decisions in fields like pharmaceuticals, public health, or market research.
Cryptographer/Cryptanalyst: Working in cybersecurity, intelligence, or defense, designing secure communication systems (cryptography) or attempting to break codes (cryptanalysis) using advanced mathematical principles, especially in number theory and abstract algebra.
Financial Modeler/Analyst: Developing and utilizing mathematical models to forecast financial trends, evaluate investment opportunities, and analyze financial data for banks, investment firms, and corporations.
