MA in Mathematics

A group of math students in a grad class at desks

The Master of Arts in Mathematics degree program builds students’ expertise in sophisticated mathematical concepts, including analysis, combinatorics, dynamical systems, knot theory, logic and topology, and applied mathematics. MA students can also take advantage of research opportunities, internships at D.C. institutions and consortium classes. Graduates of the MA program go on to advanced degrees and competitive careers in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.

Full-time students typically complete the program in two years; part-time students typically take three. MA students do not take qualifying exams.

Application Deadline: April 1 (February 1 for scholarship applicants). Fall admission only.

 

  


Course Requirements

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs.

30 credits, including 12 credits in required courses, and 18 credits in elective courses selected in consultation with the department's graduate committee and in accordance with the following guidelines:

Up to 6 credits in non-MATH courses within GW can count toward degree requirements. Students must petition and obtain the approval of the graduate committee to register for courses outside the department. 

Up to 9 credits in mathematics courses taken at other institutions in the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area can count toward degree requirements. Students must petition and obtain the approval of the graduate committee to take courses through the Consortium.  

Up to 6 credits in undergraduate MATH courses within GW can be taken for graduate credit and counted toward degree requirements. Students must petition and obtain the approval of the graduate committee and have the permission of the instructor to take undergraduate courses. Appropriate additional work must be assigned for students to receive graduate credit for an undergraduate course.

Required
Students must complete at least two of the following two-course sequences:
Algebra
MATH 6101
MATH 6102
Algebra I
and Algebra II
Analysis
MATH 6214
MATH 6215
Measure and Integration Theory
and Introduction to Functional Analysis
Applied mathematics
MATH 6318
MATH 6319
Applied Mathematics I
and Applied Mathematics II
Topology
MATH 6810
MATH 6820
General Topology
and Algebraic Topology