MS in Mathematical Sciences

The Master of Science (MS) in Mathematical Sciences degree program is a three-semester course of study that develops the student’s understanding of mathematics beyond that obtained in a standard undergraduate program. It offers students a thorough background in advanced mathematical concepts, focusing on clear, logical reasoning and communication. Students may choose from one of these possible concentrations: pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and financial mathematics. 

A graduate of the MS program is prepared to enter the workforce as a professional mathematical scientist. An appropriate choice of courses will also prepare students to pursue a PhD in Mathematical Sciences.

A minimum of 30 graduate credits in mathematics or statistics are required with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students must choose between three tracks: Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Financial Mathematics. Each track has a core of classes that the students must take. The remaining credits are chosen from a list of electives. 

Visit the curriculum guide to learn about the required courses for each track. More details concerning the requirements of the program are explained in the Mathematical Sciences Department’s Graduate Handbook. See the course descriptions for information on the content.

A student entering with the minimum requirements should expect to take two years to complete the program. Students entering the program with a stronger mathematical background may be able to complete the program in three semesters.

Students applying for the program should have or be expecting to obtain a bachelor’s degree either in mathematics or in a related area with a strong mathematical foundation. Specifically, students should have taken:

• Three semesters of calculus up to and including multivariate calculus
  
• A semester course in ordinary differential equations
• A semester course in linear algebra 

Students should have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (a “B” average) in these courses. 

While not required, a score of 155 or higher on the GRE quantitative section is a good indication a student will succeed in the MS program.

Proficiency in English is expected of international students whose native language is not English. A minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based TOEFL is required for admission. Also acceptable for admission are an overall band score of 6.5 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), a score of 56 on the PEARSON Test of English (PTE), or a score of 110 on the Duolingo English Test. To be eligible for a Graduate Assistantship, a student must achieve a TOEFL score of at least 93, IELTS overall band score of at least 7, PTE score of at least 64, or Duolingo score of at least 115. The English proficiency requirement is met for applicants with degrees earned in English from accredited universities and colleges in the US or other English-speaking countries. 

Applicants will need to meet the minimum requirements to be considered for the program. Completed applications for fall semester will be reviewed beginning February 1.

All application materials from international students requiring a US visa must be received prior to April 1 (but sooner is better) in order to allow time for the necessary paperwork to be processed. The visa application process can often take 90 days or more to complete.

If you're an international student and plan to apply for spring semester, please complete your application by mid-August to allow sufficient time for visa processing.

How to apply: 

1. Create an online application

2. Include these documents in your application:

• Three letters of recommendation. The application system will automatically send an email to each of the recommenders with a link to submit their letters. 
• Unofficial copy of transcript (official transcript will be required if you are admitted to the program). 
• GRE general test score (highly recommended).
• Statement of purpose/cover letter 
• English Proficiency for international students.

3. Pay the application fee

UC’s CEEB college code is 1833, as established by The College Board. CEEB codes are used to ensure that test scores are sent to the correct institution. 

• More information about submitting your application materials 
• FAQs for the admission process
  

• Tuition and fees for graduate students

Cincinnati is a big city with a small-town feel. The cost of living is low, but the quality of life is high.  Forbes named Cincinnati the #5 most affordable city and the #9 best city for raising a family. Cincinnati has ranked the best place to live in Ohio by U.S. News & World Report, also the fourth-best city in the country for parks. UC is home to over 10,500 graduate students, 20% of which are international students.

• Why Cincinnati  
• Estimated living expenses (for international students)

For further information, please contact the Graduate Program Director, Dr. Robert Buckingham:

• Email: Robert.Buckingham@uc.edu
• Phone: 513-556-4085

See the full list of our graduate programs