M.A. in English
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English at UNCW is a flexible and student-centered program...
M.S. in Mathematics
Wilmington, North Carolina
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Mathematics at UNCW is a 30-33 credit hour program that allows students to choose from several plans of study, catering to different career aspirations. It offers both a thesis option, which emphasizes original research, and a non-thesis option, which includes a research project or internship. The program aims to equip students with a broad understanding of mathematics and statistics, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to effectively communicate complex mathematical ideas. It is well-suited for those interested in applied mathematics, preparing them for roles in business, industry, or government, as well as for a more traditional pure mathematics path, often chosen by those aiming for secondary or community college teaching or a Ph.D.
STEM Designated: The M.S. in Mathematics at UNCW is officially a STEM-designated program. This is a significant benefit, particularly for international students on an F-1 visa. This designation makes them eligible for a 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension after their initial 12 months of post-completion OPT. This provides a total of up to 36 months of work experience in the U.S. after graduation, greatly enhancing their professional development and career opportunities in fields that demand advanced mathematical skills.
Curriculum: The curriculum provides a strong foundation in core mathematical concepts. All students are typically required to complete core courses such as "Introduction to Complex Variables" (MAT 515) and "Linear Algebra" (MAT 531). Beyond these core requirements, students select additional coursework from a range of advanced mathematics and statistics courses (MAT 500-599 or STT 500-599), in consultation with an advisor to align with their specific goals and interests. The thesis option requires 2 credit hours of seminar and 4 credit hours of thesis research, culminating in a written thesis and oral defense. The non-thesis option typically includes 2 credit hours of seminar and a 1-credit hour research project or internship. The program emphasizes logical reasoning, modeling, problem-solving, and effective communication of mathematical concepts.
Research Focus: As an R2 institution, UNCW places a strong emphasis on research within its M.S. in Mathematics program. Faculty members in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics are engaged in diverse areas of research, including nonlinear wave equations, dynamical systems, graph theory, applied harmonic analysis, mathematical programming, operations research, statistical learning, biometrics, and computational analysis. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research under faculty mentorship, especially through the thesis option, which fosters in-depth scholarly inquiry. Even in the non-thesis track, students can undertake a research project, providing hands-on experience in applying mathematical principles to unsolved problems and contributing to scholarly output.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Mathematics program at UNCW is designed with strong connections to industry, preparing graduates for diverse professional roles. The applied mathematics track specifically stresses applications from sciences, industry, and management, incorporating coursework in classical applied mathematics, operations research, and statistics. The department emphasizes providing students with research and internship opportunities to gain practical experience. Alumni from the program have found success in various roles in business, industry, and government, including as actuaries, analysts, and programmers. The program's flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to align with the demands of specific industries, making them highly marketable upon graduation.
Global Perspective: The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at UNCW, like the university as a whole, fosters a global perspective by engaging with mathematical concepts and problems that transcend national boundaries. While the program is based in the U.S., the universal nature of mathematics means that the theoretical and applied skills gained are highly transferable globally. Faculty research may address problems with international implications, and the diverse backgrounds of both faculty and students enrich the learning environment. The program's focus on preparing graduates for careers in a globalized economy, whether in international business, research, or cross-cultural collaborations, inherently promotes a global outlook.
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24198
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 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support and attract talented international students. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable while recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNCW provides merit scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable for multiple years based on maintaining good academic standing.
International Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships are available exclusively for international students, such as the International Student Scholarship which rewards outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities. Eligibility and award amounts vary each year, encouraging prospective students to apply early.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNCW offer scholarships targeted to students within their programs, including international students. These scholarships recognize excellence in fields such as business, marine science, and the arts, and often require separate applications or nominations.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: UNCW encourages international students to explore additional funding options through external organizations, governments, and private foundations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on locating and applying for these scholarships.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Mathematics from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) provides graduates with a highly versatile and in-demand skill set, encompassing advanced analytical reasoning, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to apply complex mathematical and statistical models to real-world scenarios. As a STEM-designated program, it offers significant advantages, especially for international students, by extending post-graduation work opportunities in the U.S. UNCW's flexible curriculum, including options for pure or applied mathematics and a strong emphasis on research, prepares graduates for diverse career paths in various industries, government, and academia.
Actuary: Actuaries use advanced mathematical, statistical, and financial theory to analyze and manage financial risks, primarily in the insurance and pension industries. They are highly sought after for their ability to assess the likelihood of future events and their financial implications.
Data Scientist/Analyst: In an increasingly data-driven world, mathematicians are crucial for roles involving the collection, analysis, and interpretation of large datasets. They develop algorithms, build predictive models, and extract insights to inform strategic decisions in tech, finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and many other sectors.
Statistician: Statisticians design experiments, surveys, and polls, then collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve problems across various fields, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and market research. Their expertise is essential for drawing reliable conclusions from complex data.
Operations Research Analyst: These professionals use advanced mathematical modeling, optimization techniques, and analytical methods to help organizations make better decisions and improve efficiency. They solve complex problems in logistics, supply chain management, scheduling, and resource allocation for businesses, government, and military.
Financial Analyst/Quant (Quantitative Analyst): Graduates can work in the financial sector for banks, investment firms, hedge funds, or insurance companies. They use sophisticated mathematical models to analyze financial markets, manage investments, assess risk, and develop trading strategies.
Software Developer/Engineer: With strong logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, mathematicians are well-equipped for roles in software development. They can contribute to designing algorithms, developing complex software applications, working in areas like cybersecurity, or specializing in machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Mathematics Instructor (Community College/High School): An M.S. in Mathematics provides the qualifications to teach mathematics at community colleges or high schools, shaping the next generation of students with foundational mathematical knowledge and critical thinking skills. Some may also serve as adjunct faculty at universities.
Biostatistician: In the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, biostatisticians apply statistical methods to biological and medical research. They design clinical trials, analyze health data, and evaluate the effectiveness and safety of new drugs and treatments.
Research Mathematician: For those inclined towards theoretical work and advanced problem-solving, opportunities exist in government research labs, think tanks, or pursuing a Ph.D. to become a university professor and engage in cutting-edge mathematical research.
Cryptographer: This specialized field involves applying advanced mathematical concepts (like number theory and abstract algebra) to design and analyze secure communication methods and encryption systems, crucial for cybersecurity in government, defense, and technology companies.
