Master of Science in Applied Mathematics

Master of Science in Applied Mathematics

Our MS in Applied Mathematics program offers a general degree in applied mathematics along with specialization opportunities in many areas including:

  • Applied probability
  • Applied statistics
  • Discrete mathematics
  • Mathematics of engineering and science
  • Numerical analysis
  • Operations research

Students in all areas are exposed to a variety of coursework and have the opportunity to participate in real-world research and consulting through our innovative Math Clinic and Statistical Consulting. Whatever specialization students choose, graduates with an applied mathematics degree will be prepared for a multitude of careers.

See our degree requirements section for further information about our concentration areas.??

The following is only a summary of the program requirements. The authoritative source describing program rules and expectations on students is the Graduate Handbook?.

?The core requirements for an MS in Applied Mathematics are:

  • Thirty semester hours, of which at least 24 hours must be in mathematics courses numbered 5000 level or above. These courses must include Math 5718 (Applied Linear Algebra) and either Math 5070 (Applied Analysis) or Math 6131 (Real Analysis)
  • Students must complete either the requirements for the MS degree without concentration area or specific coursework requirements in one of the following areas (please see the Graduate Handbook):
  • Applied Statistics
  • Applied Probability
  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Mathematics of Engineering and Science
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Operations Research
  • At most six hours may be in courses outside the Department of Mathematical & Statistical Sciences at the 4000 level or above, if prior approval is given by the student's advisor and by the Graduate Committee. However, courses taken at other universities must be at the 5000 level or above, by graduate school rules.
  • The overall grade point average must be 3.0 or higher.
  • Grades below a B- do not count towards any graduate degree (but they do contribute to the overall GPA).
  • At most nine hours of total transfer credit or nine hours earned as a non-degree student, with a grade of B- or better, may be applied toward the MS degree upon approval of the Graduate Committee. The CLAS Dean's Office must approve transfer courses, and formal paperwork must be submitted. A request for transfer courses may be made after successful completion of one semester at University of Colorado Denver. Courses taken at any CU campus are not considered transfer courses; however, these courses must be approved by the graduate committee to count towards the MS degree.
  • The following courses will not count toward a graduate degree in applied mathematics: MATH 5000-5010, MATH 5012-5015, MATH 5017, MATH 5198, MATH 5250 and MATH 5830.
  • All students must pass a final oral exam and complete a written project.

By graduate school rules, master's degree students have five years from the date of admission to complete all degree requirements.
Students who choose the thesis option should register for MATH 5950 (Master's Thesis) and may count 4-6 hours of this coursework toward the required 30 hours.