数学理学硕士的目的是实现两个目标：提供超出本科水平的强有力的数学课程计划，并具有足够的灵活性以适应各种各样的学生兴趣和背景。该课程没有必需的课程，但是强烈鼓励学生在组成他们自己的学习计划的课程中强调重点，这种重点既提供了重点，也提供了对毕业生经验的深度。无论研究生课程的目标是什么，学生都应尽快与具有类似数学兴趣的教师建立紧密的工作关系。这将确保在计划连贯的学习计划时提供良好的建议。此外，顾问可能会建议特殊主题的课程，独立学习或论文选修，这些都可以用来更深入地追求自己的兴趣。最后，计划攻读数学博士学位的学生
The main differences between the MA and MS programs are in the number of required credit hours and the exit requirements. The MA program requires the completion of 30 credit hours and the MS program requires the completion of 36 credit hours. The MA requires the completion of a thesis, whereas the MS program requires the completion of an applied project or a comprehensive exam.<br>There are no required courses in either program, but students are strongly encouraged to develop an emphasis in the courses that make up their individual plan of study; such an emphasis provides both focus and depth in the graduate experience. To assist in this, the department has created several concentrations that focus on particular emphases. The inclusion of a concentration in the degree program is entirely optional, and a concentration can be added, changed, or removed at any point prior to graduation. Further information about the available concentrations can be found at the bottom of the page.<br>Whatever the objectives in their graduate programs, students should form a close working relationship with a faculty member having similar mathematical interests as soon as possible. This will ensure good advice in planning a coherent plan of study. In addition, an adviser may be able to suggest special topics courses, independent study, or the thesis option which could all be used to pursue one's interests in greater depth.