M.S. in Mathematics

Program Overview

The M.S. in Mathematics is a 30-credit degree program, typically completed within 1.5 to 2 years for full-time students. The curriculum is structured around four core courses (12 credits) that establish a fundamental understanding of key mathematical areas, along with six elective courses (18 credits) that allow for specialization. Students have the option to pursue a concentration in Discrete Mathematics and Cryptography, which requires selecting at least three courses from a specific list of electives within that area. For students interested in a research-intensive experience, a Master's Thesis (6 credits) can be chosen as one of the electives. The program prepares students not only for advanced studies but also for professional roles that demand high-level mathematical expertise.

STEM-designated: Yes, the Stevens Institute of Technology M.S. in Mathematics program is unequivocally STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students. The STEM designation makes them eligible for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, allowing for a total of up to three years of valuable post-graduation work experience. This designation clearly reflects the program's rigorous quantitative, analytical, and technological focus, which is highly valued by employers in fields such as finance, technology, data science, and cybersecurity.

Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum provides a robust foundation in core mathematical concepts and allows for specialization. Required common core courses typically include: Foundation of Algebra I, Introduction to Probability Theory (or Probability), and Functional Analysis I (or Functional Analysis II). Students also choose between Foundation of Algebra II and Functional Analysis II as a core. The elective courses offer a wide array of advanced topics, such as Discrete Mathematics for Cryptography, Foundations of Computation and Computational Complexity, Numerical Linear Algebra for Big Data, Mathematics of Post-Quantum Cryptography, Quantum Algorithms, Statistical Methods, Stochastic Processes, and various courses in topology, differential equations, and complex analysis. The curriculum also allows for relevant courses from Computer Science (e.g., Foundations of Cryptography, Advanced Algorithm Design) and Physics, underscoring its interdisciplinary nature and applicability to modern technological challenges.

Research Focus: The M.S. in Mathematics program at Stevens has a strong research focus, particularly within the Department of Mathematical Sciences. The department is a leader in algebraic cryptography and is home to the internationally recognized Algebra and Cryptology Center (ACC), a multidisciplinary initiative with the Computer Science department. Research strengths include group theory, stochastic modeling, mathematical models of risk, optimization and control under uncertainty, statistical learning, numerical analysis, partial differential equations (PDEs), and reliability theory. Recent research themes encompass risk-averse learning for distributed dynamical systems, algebraic geometry in nilpotent groups, and the mathematics of post-quantum cryptography, which is a rapidly evolving area. Students are encouraged to engage in research and can elect to complete a Master's Thesis to contribute to these cutting-edge areas, benefiting from faculty mentorship and access to specialized centers and labs.

Industry Engagement: Stevens Institute of Technology places a very high priority on industry engagement for its Mathematics program. Its strategic location in the New York metropolitan area provides unparalleled access to a vast network of industries, including financial services (e.g., Wall Street), technology companies, cybersecurity firms, and government agencies, all of which heavily rely on advanced mathematical expertise. The Department of Mathematical Sciences actively connects students with industry professionals through initiatives like the "Mathematical Sciences Industry Connection Series," which features alumni and experts from diverse fields such as AI, machine learning, and software engineering. These events provide insights into how theoretical knowledge is applied in the workplace, what skills are valued by employers, and offer networking opportunities. Stevens' robust Career Center further facilitates internships, co-op experiences, and job placements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the modern workforce.

Global Perspective: Stevens Institute of Technology fosters a global perspective within its M.S. in Mathematics program. This is achieved through its diverse international student body, which contributes to a rich multicultural learning environment. Classroom discussions are enriched by varied insights into international mathematical research, global financial markets, and cross-cultural applications of quantitative methods. The inherently universal nature of mathematics, coupled with its application to global challenges in areas like cybersecurity, data analytics, and financial modeling, prepares graduates to contribute to international scientific collaborations and navigate complex global problems. The program emphasizes skills that are globally recognized and highly transferable, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for careers in an interconnected professional landscape, as evidenced by its consistent ranking among top global universities for graduate employability in mathematics.