Department of Mathematics
M.A. in Mathematics
Option: Teaching
Dr. Stefaan Delcroix, Department Chair
Dr. Doreen De Leon, Interim Graduate Coordinator
Mathematics Today
Today, the mathematical sciences play a critical dual role in our culture. On the one hand, mathematics is, in and of itself, "the queen of sciences," a discipline of unparalleled breadth and depth. On the other hand, mathematics is "the language of sciences," an indispensable tool for expressing and understanding the fundamental ideas of the physical sciences, engineering, economics, medical science, and more recently, the social sciences.
Today's mathematicians are involved in an incredibly diverse range of activities, from traditional teaching and classical mathematical research to the most esoteric aspects of economic forecasting and genetic engineering. As a consequence, the employment opportunities and challenges for individuals holding an advanced degree in the mathematical sciences are varied and plentiful. The courses and master's degree program offered by the California State University, Fresno Mathematics Department are designed to prepare students for this broad range of career opportunities and for the challenges of the 21st century.
The Master of Arts Degree
M.A. in Mathematics (Traditional Track)
The master's degree in mathematics requires 30 semester units of courses beyond a bachelor's degree, including 9 units of required courses (Math 251, 271, 298). At least 21 of these units must be in mathematics courses at the graduate (i.e., 200+) level. The other 9 units may be in a related discipline approved by the Graduate Adviser, with no more than 6 units in a related field. Prior to advancement to candidacy, the student must pass the department's Graduate Qualifying Exam (given in two parts: Algebra and Analysis).
M.A. in Mathematics with a Teaching Option
The master's degree with a teaching option requires 30 semester units of courses beyond a bachelor's degree: 15 units of required courses (CI 250, MATH 250, 260, 270, 298) and 15 units of elective courses – 12 units of math courses and 3 units of education courses (either CI 275 or an approved CI 280T). Prior to advancement to candidacy, the student must pass the three CSET exams: 110, 111, and 112.
A requirement for both the master's degree and the master's degree with an option is the Math 298 research project, culminating in a written and oral report to the Department of Mathematics.
A requirement for both the master's degree and the master's degree with an option is the Math 298 research project, culminating in a written and oral report to the Department of Mathematics.
Support
The Department of Mathematics provides a variety of opportunities for students to assist them in their studies. With approximately 15 students in the current graduate program, study tracks are facilitated with much greater ease than with larger programs. Graduate students will find that with a rich faculty-to-student ratio, faculty mentoring is individualized and tailor made to their needs. Whether preparing for work in industry, high school and community college teaching, or doctoral studies, our faculty are committed to the support of our students.
Financially, students may qualify for aid after the completion of their first semester. Many of our graduate students are supported each semester by Graduate Assistant and Teaching Assistant positions, which usually require 10-20 hours of work per week, with pay that ranges approximately from $5,300 to $10,600 per academic year, depending on the total assigned work hours. A limited number of tuition waivers may also be available to outstanding applicants.