Masters of Mathematical Sciences

Program Overview

Develop advanced problem-solving and analytical skills through a flexible master’s program designed to fit your goals. Choose a concentration in Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, or Statistics, and explore courses such as Real Analysis, Graph Theory, Operations Research, and Statistical Methods.

Whether you’re preparing for a career in data-driven industries, teaching and research, or doctoral study, ETSU’s Mathematical Sciences program will equip you with the tools to succeed.

• Eligibility Requirements

  1. A completed undergraduate degree with an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale prior to the first semester of study.
  2. Accelerated Bachelors to Masters students may be admitted to the program before completing the Bachelors degree, but must meet all Graduate School requirements for admission to the accelerated program.
  3. Applicants should have demonstrated prerequisite knowledge in the following areas. ETSU classes that might be used to meet each competency appear in Calculus - Differential and Integral (MATH 1910 and 1920)
     1. Linear Algebra - (MATH 2010)
     2. Mathematical Reasoning and Proofs - (MATH 3000)
     3. Analysis - (MATH 4217)
     4. Modern Algebra - (MATH 4127)
  4. Applicants lacking prerequisite requirements may be admitted provisionally. Provisional admission could require students to complete prerequisite knowledge within a specified time frame. 
• Evaluation of Applicants

  1. Academic Record:  Transcripts from all institutions where a degree was awarded or where graduate coursework was taken.
  2. Resumé/Curriculum Vitae: Applicants will submit a detailed list of professional experience.
  3. Personal Statement: Applicants will write a brief, one-page personal statement that discusses their background and the desire to pursue graduate study in the Mathematical Sciences.
  4. Recommendation Letters: Applicants should provide recommendations from two references. References are strongest when they are from current or former faculty members who can attest to readiness for graduate study. Professional references who can address eligibility requirements are also considered.
• Financial Aid & Assistantships

  • The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers several types of graduate assistantships (GA). All assistantships come with a full tuition waiver and a stipend ranging between $8,200 and $10,000 per academic year. Additionally, a limited number of assistantships are available during the summer and carry a stipend of $1,420.
  • Students who are on a GA are still responsible for fees, which are a little more than $1,000 per semester at the time this was written.
  • Students who are on a GA are required to work for 20 hours per week. This work will include assisting instructors and working as a tutor in the CFAA. Additionally, after completing 18 graduate credit hours, the student may have the opportunity to teach their own class.
  • Students who are on a GA must be enrolled in 9 graduate credit hours per semester and 3 graduate credit hours during the supported summer session.
  • Students who are on a GA must maintain a GPA of 3.0. If GPA drops below this, then the semester is placed on academic probation and has one semester to bring their GPA above the 3.0 threshold.
  • A student may hold a GA position for four academic semesters, not including summers.
• Program Requirements

  • Students are required to complete 30 graduate level course credits. At most 9 of these credit hours can come from cross-listed courses.
  • Students are required to complete Real Analysis 1 (MATH 5210) and Modern Algebra 1 (MATH 5410).
  • Students are required to complete a graduate sequence (Statistical Methods 1 and 2, Real Analysis 1 and 2, Operations Research 1 and 2, etc.).
  • Before students can begin working on their Thesis they must complete a comprehensive exam in Calculus and in Linear Algebra. Students must have both exams completed by the end of their third semester.
  • Students are required to complete at least 3 and at most 6 credit hours of Thesis (MATH 5960). Work on the Thesis typically begins after completing the first academic year.
  • At the beginning of the thesis process, the student must complete a Preliminary Thesis Presentation to have their topic approved by their committee. You can find the form for this here. At the end of the thesis process, the student will complete an Oral Thesis Defense.