Mathematics, M.S.

Prerequisites

A bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree in mathematics, or a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 24 upper-division units in mathematics from an accredited college or university

A grade of “C” or better in the following courses

MATH 247 - Introduction to Linear Algebra (3 units)
MATH 361A - Introduction to Mathematical Analysis I (3 units)
MATH 361B - Introduction to Mathematical Analysis II (3 units)
MATH 364A - Ordinary Differential Equations I (3 units)
MATH 444 - Introduction to Abstract Algebra (3 units)
or their equivalents; consult the Graduate Advisor

Advancement to Candidacy

In addition to University requirements, the student must have completed all prerequisite courses listed above with no grade less than “C”. Students should file for Advancement upon completion of at least six units (and no more than nine units) on the Program of Study, with at least a 3.0 GPA. Program of study must be approved by the appropriate Graduate Advisor, and Director of Graduate Studies in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics or designee.

Requirements

Upper Division:

A minimum of 30 graduate and approved upper-division units in mathematics including:

MATH 540 - Elements of Abstract Algebra (3 units)

Two additional courses selected from:

MATH 550 - Elements of Topology (3 units)
MATH 561 - Elements of Real Analysis (3 units)
MATH 562 - Elements of Complex Analysis (3 units)

Two additional courses selected from:

MATH 545 - Topics in Abstract Algebra (3 units)
MATH 555 - Topics in Topology (3 units)
MATH 565 - Topics in Real Analysis (3 units)
MATH 566 - Topics in Complex Analysis (3 units)

An additional 6 units of 500-level mathematics courses

Requirement in Geometry

Three units must be in a course designated as fulfilling the program requirement in geometry; these courses include

MATH 451 - Differential Geometry (3 units)
MATH 456 - Dynamics and Geometry of Chaos (3 units)

Complete one of the following culminating activities

(Note: In order to satisfy the culminating activity requirement (thesis, project, or comprehensive examination dependent upon the program), students must earn at least three (3) units and no more than six (6) units related to the completion of the culminating activity:

Comprehensive Exam Option

Pass a comprehensive written examination in two areas of Pure Mathematics. Specific requirements for passing the comprehensive examinations can be found on the Department of Mathematics and Statistics website at www.csulb.edu/depts/math.

Thesis Option

Subject to the approval of the Pure Mathematics Committee in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, write a thesis in mathematics and defend it orally.