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The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
M.S. in Mathematics
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Mathematics at Missouri State is a 32-credit-hour program that emphasizes both pure and applied mathematics. It provides students with a strong foundation in core mathematical areas while also offering opportunities for specialization. The program offers an accelerated master's option for highly qualified undergraduate students, allowing them to earn both their bachelor's and master's degrees in a streamlined five-year timeframe. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for roles requiring advanced mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and data analysis.
STEM-designated: Yes, the M.S. in Mathematics program at Missouri State University is generally considered a STEM-designated program. This designation is highly advantageous, especially for international students, as it typically allows for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period in the U.S. after graduation. The STEM OPT extension provides international graduates with more opportunities for practical work experience in their field, increasing their post-graduation career flexibility and marketability.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Mathematics requires a minimum of 32 semester hours. It includes a core set of advanced mathematics courses designed to strengthen foundational knowledge. Students are generally required to complete courses such as "Advanced Calculus," "Abstract Algebra," and "Statistical Theory." Beyond these core requirements, students select electives from a wide range of mathematics courses at the 600 or 700 level, allowing for specialization in areas like analysis, differential equations, topology, combinatorics, or statistics. The program culminates in either a satisfactory thesis or a seminar paper, followed by a comprehensive examination, demonstrating the student's mastery of the subject matter and ability to conduct independent research.
Research Focus: The M.S. in Mathematics program places a significant emphasis on developing students' research capabilities. Students are encouraged to engage in independent study and research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. The program's culminating thesis option provides an opportunity for in-depth original research, where students explore advanced topics, apply sophisticated mathematical techniques, and present their findings in a scholarly manner. Faculty members in the Department of Mathematics have diverse research interests, including areas such as analysis, differential equations, algebra, topology, and statistics, providing students with a wide array of potential research topics and specialized guidance.
Industry Engagement: While primarily an academic program, the M.S. in Mathematics at Missouri State University equips graduates with highly transferable analytical and quantitative skills that are invaluable across various industries. Graduates are well-prepared for roles that require strong logical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical modeling. The department's focus on foundational mathematics and advanced topics makes graduates attractive to sectors like finance, technology, data science, and engineering. While direct industry engagement such as mandatory internships may not be a primary program component, the skills acquired are directly applicable to solving real-world problems in business, government, and research and development settings. The university's career services also assist students in connecting with potential employers in these fields.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Mathematics program inherently offers a global perspective by engaging with universal mathematical principles and theories that transcend national boundaries. Mathematics is a global language of science and technology, and the curriculum prepares students to contribute to mathematical advancements and applications worldwide. The university's diverse international student population in various STEM fields enriches the academic environment, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. While specific courses dedicated to global mathematical applications might not be a primary focus, the analytical and problem-solving skills developed are globally applicable, preparing graduates to work in international teams or pursue opportunities in a globalized economy.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% 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.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
An M.S. in Mathematics from Missouri State University provides graduates with highly sought-after analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, making them incredibly versatile in the modern job market. The program's rigorous curriculum in advanced mathematical concepts, coupled with its STEM designation, prepares individuals for diverse roles across various industries that increasingly rely on data-driven insights and complex modeling.
Data Scientist: Leveraging strong statistical and mathematical modeling skills, data scientists extract meaningful insights from large datasets. They develop algorithms, build predictive models, and interpret complex data to inform strategic business decisions across tech, finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.
Actuary: Actuaries use mathematical models, statistics, and financial theory to assess and manage financial risks, primarily in the insurance and pension industries. They are essential for designing insurance policies, calculating premiums, and ensuring financial stability.
Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Quants apply advanced mathematical and statistical models to analyze and predict financial market trends. They work in investment banks, hedge funds, and financial institutions, developing trading strategies, pricing complex financial instruments, and managing risk.
Statistician: Statisticians design experiments, collect, analyze, and interpret numerical data to draw conclusions and make predictions. They work in diverse fields such as pharmaceuticals, government (e.g., U.S. Census Bureau), healthcare, and market research, often focusing on areas like biostatistics or applied statistics.
Operations Research Analyst: These professionals use mathematical modeling, optimization techniques, and analytical methods to solve complex business problems and improve decision-making processes. They work in logistics, supply chain management, healthcare, and government to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Financial Analyst: With a strong foundation in quantitative analysis, M.S. in Mathematics graduates are well-suited to evaluate investment opportunities, analyze financial performance, and provide financial advice to individuals or organizations in banking, investment firms, and corporate finance departments.
High School or Community College Mathematics Teacher: For those passionate about education, an M.S. in Mathematics provides the advanced subject matter expertise to teach mathematics at the secondary school level or at community colleges. This degree often qualifies for teaching dual-credit courses in high schools as well.
Software Engineer/Developer (with programming skills): Mathematicians' logical thinking and problem-solving abilities are highly valued in software development. With additional programming skills, they can contribute to designing algorithms, developing complex software, or working in specialized areas like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
Cryptographer: Cryptographers apply advanced mathematical concepts, particularly from number theory and abstract algebra, to design and analyze secure communication systems. They work to protect sensitive information for government agencies, cybersecurity firms, and technology companies.
Research Mathematician: While many research roles require a Ph.D., an M.S. in Mathematics can lead to research positions in government agencies, private research institutions, or as part of a larger research team in academia, focusing on pure or applied mathematical theories and their applications.
