Math Graduate Programs
The UND Department of Mathematics offers courses leading to the Master of Science, Master of Education degrees with a major in mathematics, as well as a Master's in Applied Statistics. A graduate minor in statistics is also available.
The atmosphere in the department is friendly and supportive, and our graduate program is the right size to allow us to provide individual attention to every student. Our faculty have research interests in pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and mathematics education. Our graduates have been successful in completing PhD programs at other institutions as well as in finding jobs in industry or the public sector, depending on their interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a mathematics graduate student, what kind of learning atmosphere will I find in the department?
All of our graduate students are masters students, and the total number is low-usually 10 to 12. The student/faculty ratio of the department is generally smaller than one. This means you will find a close, friendly learning environment where masters students are highly valued and are able to receive individual attention throughout their programs. Class size for our graduate courses is usually five or less.
What can I do with a graduate degree in mathematics?
A graduate degree in mathematics can open the door to a wider range of job options than a bachelors degree alone, and in some settings a graduate degree automatically translates to a higher salary bracket. However, not all of our students have a specific career goal in mind when they arrive; many are attracted mainly by the opportunity to study mathematics more fully. Some students go on to doctoral programs in mathematics, while others find jobs in industry or the public sector-for example with insurance companies, at financial institutions, or in government or education.
For further information about career opportunities for mathematics graduates, visit MAA Math Careers and AMS Early Careers.
What kind of financial support is available?
Primarily, financial support is offered in the form of graduate teaching assistantships. Most of our students are supported, typically for the full length of their programs (two academic years). Support usually consists of a stipend, and waiver of tuition for all courses in a student's program of study.
For further information about financial assistance, visit the UND School of Graduate Studies.
What is involved in being a graduate teaching assistant?
In most cases, appointment as a graduate teaching assistant is classified as half-time (50%) employment. Graduate teaching assistants are assigned to work in the Math Active Learning Lab (MALL).
Graduate teaching assistants are assigned one to two sections of the courses taught in the MALL (Math 98, Math 103, and Math 107). Their responsibilities include:
- Conducting weekly focus groups for each section assigned
- Helping their students to work with the ALEKS learning system
- Grading homework assignments, quizzes, and exams
- Tutoring students in the MALL
- Participating in weekly professional development meetings
Do I need previous teaching experience to qualify for a graduate teaching assistantship?
No. You will be provided with the orientation you need to get started, along with ongoing supervision and support to help you develop and enhance your teaching skills. And of course, you will learn by doing. A graduate teaching assistantship is much more than a financial support opportunity-it is a chance to acquire valuable professional experience and work skills that are transferable to many occupations.
What is the general atmosphere of the department like?
In the sense that people are always busy working and learning, the atmosphere is a serious one, but the environment is friendly and supportive. Graduate students play a vital role in our academic activities and are an integral part of our group, which along with faculty also includes an experienced and knowledgeable professional staff. The relatively small size of our department means that everyone knows each other, and the physical layout of the facilities leads to frequent occasions for interaction. Graduate students are assigned cubicles in a shared environment near the department office. We all use a common multipurpose room that functions as a lounge with a small kitchen, where people get together over coffee, lunch, or occasional home-baked treats. We have an annual picnic each fall as well as a get-together at the end of each semester.