Candidates must complete an approved 45-credit program which includes at least 30 credits in mathematics or statistics. These 30 credits must include courses distributed as follows: two 9-credit sequences at the 600 level and the 3-credit Mth 501 Mathematical Literature and Problems. In addition, the student must pass written examinations.

COURSES APPROVED FOR MA/MS DEGREES:

For course descriptions see Mathematics and Statistics course listings.

Check with the department for additional courses, including omnibus-numbered courses, which also may be approved for MA/MS programs. "Approved" means that it is approved as inside 30 mathematical credit hours for the MA/MS program.

COURSES APPROVED AS ELECTIVES FOR MA/MS DEGREES:
Mth 581 Probability for Mathematics Teachers
Mth 582 Statistics for Mathematics Teachers
Mth 583 Topics in Geometry for Mathematics Teachers
Mth 584 Topics in Algebra for Mathematics Teachers
Mth 585 Topics in Analysis for Mathematics Teachers
Mth 586 Topics in the History of Mathematics
Mth 587 Introduction to Combinatorial Mathematics
Mth 588 Computing Technology for Mathematics Teachers

"Approved as elective" means that it is approved inside 45 credit hours but not inside 30 mathematical credit hours.

MA/MS EXAMINATIONS:

Students must pass two examinations, one of which must be in either Algebra or Analysis. Examinations are given in eight areas and are scheduled twice a year, in the Fall and in the Spring. Students may take a given area examination at most two times. MA/MS Examination Policy as well as syllabi for the six area examinations are available in the department office. Copies of previous MA/MS examinations may be seen by students.

MTH 501 MATHEMATICAL LITERATURE AND PROBLEMS:

In this required course a student works under the supervision of a faculty member in an area of mathematics in which the student has acquired the background needed to read current mathematical literature, prepare a research paper, and present this research in a colloquium. Requirements for the course are contained in Guidelines and Deadlines for Literature and Problems Seminar which is also available in the department office.

PLANNING AN MA/MS DEGREE PROGRAM:

The department offers courses in pure and applied mathematics and in statistics. Students may choose an emphasis in one or more of these areas. The department tries to project its future 600-level offerings. These projections enable students to plan programs that include any necessary 500-level prerequisites. Students also need to plan programs that will prepare them to pass two MA/MS examinations, at least one of which is in Algebra or Analysis. New students are urged to meet with the MA/MS Coordinator regarding degree requirements and for help with program planning.

Admission Information

For program requirements questions call or write John Erdman at (503) 725-3644, email:  erdman@pdx.edu .

For advising call or write Joyce O'Halloran at (503)-725-3652, email: joyce@pdx.edu

For an application form to the MA/MS program see graduate application form.