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Mathematics, PhD

Are you interested in understanding the true depth of knowledge in the intradisciplinary subfields within mathematics? Discover important connections between different areas of mathematics and their applications using studies in algebra, topology, geometry, probability, analysis and logic.

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A professor writes equations on a blackboard, demonstrating field explored in the Mathematics, PhD.

Quick facts

Additional facts

STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Degree description

If you have exceptional mathematical ability, the Doctor of Philosophy program in mathematics is for you. The program emphasizes a solid mathematical foundation and promotes innovative scholarship in mathematics and its many related disciplines.

The School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences has very active research groups in analysis, number theory, geometry and discrete mathematics.

Curriculum

This graduate degree includes courses focused on a specialized topic, so you can advance your skills for further professional opportunities. Explore all courses below.

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (12 credit hours)
Select two of the following four sequences (each sequence consists of two consecutively numbered courses)
MAT 501 Geometry and Topology of Manifolds I (3)
MAT 502 Geometry and Topology of Manifolds II (3)
MAT 512 Introduction to Combinatorics (3)
MAT 513 Graph Theory (3)
MAT 543 Abstract Algebra I (3)
MAT 544 Abstract Algebra II (3)
MAT 570 Real Analysis I (3)
MAT 571 Real Analysis II (3)

Other Requirements (3 credit hours)
MAT 591 Seminar (3)

Electives (33 credit hours)

Research (24 credit hours)
MAT 792 Research (24)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours)
MAT 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information
Electives are to be chosen from math or related area courses approved by the student's supervisory committee.

Students must pass:

  1. two qualifying examinations
  2. a written comprehensive examination
  3. an oral dissertation prospectus defense

Students should see the department website for examination information.

Each student must write a dissertation and defend it orally in front of five dissertation committee members.


What you'll learn

The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.

  • Apply advanced mathematical skills in coursework and research.
  • Address an original research question in mathematics.
  • Able to complete original research in theoretical mathematics.

Admission requirements

Here are the admission and application details

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

U.S. applicants (opens in new window) | International applicants (opens in new window) | English proficiency (opens in new window)

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in mathematics or a closely related area from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. statement of education and career goals
  4. resume
  5. three letters of recommendation
  6. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Additional eligibility requirements include competitiveness in an applicant pool as evidenced by coursework in linear algebra (equivalent to ASU course MAT 342 or MAT 343) and advanced calculus (equivalent to ASU course MAT 371), and it is desirable that applicants have scientific programming skills.

Application deadlines

Fall
Session Modality Deadline Type
Session A/C In Person 12/10 Priority*
Summer
Session Modality Deadline Type
Session A/C In Person 07/01 Final*

*A final deadline means that all applications and application materials must be received by Admission Services by the deadline date. Applications that are incomplete may not be considered after the final deadline. Applications that are submitted past the final deadline may not be considered.

*A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed and on a space-available basis. An application is complete after all materials are received by Admission Services.

Paying for college

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Get an estimate

Career opportunities

Graduates of the PhD program in mathematics possess sophisticated mathematical skills required for careers in many different sectors, including education, industry and government. Potential career opportunities include:

  • faculty-track academic
  • finance and investment analyst
  • mathematician
  • mathematics professor, instructor or researcher
  • operations research analyst
  • statistician

Contact information

Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.

School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences | WXLR A213
grad.math@asu.edu
480-965-3951

Frequently asked questions about degree programs

Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.

Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.

ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.

The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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