M.A. in Mathematics

The Master of Arts degree in Mathematics is a flexible program that allows students to tailor their studies to individual career goals. It emphasizes mathematical content courses and communication of mathematics. It is appropriate not only for college teaching but also for students considering further graduate work or work in industry. There are two possible culminating experiences: a thesis, or, a set of comprehensive exams. See below for more information on these.

In addition to the general requirements of the university, which include a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, specific requirements for admission to the program are:Successful completion with a grade of at least "B" (3.0) of course work in abstract algebra, real analysis, in addition to upper division course work in pure, applied, and advanced mathematics deemed equivalent to the core of the mathematics major at California State University, San Bernardino. More specifically, course work in pure mathematics must include one of number theory, geometry, combinatorics, or graph theory. Course work in applied mathematics must include one of ordinary differential equations, numerical analysis, Fourier analysis, or mathematical modeling. Course work in advanced mathematics must include one of topology, complex analysis, or differential geometry. Substitutions may be made in certain circumstances at the discretion of the MA coordinator. In addition, an overall GPA of at least 3.0 is required;In some cases, students who do not meet these criteria may be admitted as conditionally classified graduate students following review by the Department of Mathematics Graduate Committee;Submission of a completed M.A. in Mathematics application form, including all undergraduate transcripts;Three letters of recommendation submitted to the Department of Mathematics main office;A letter of not more than three pages, outlining background, interest in this program, and career goals.