The Doctorate in Mathematics is a degree, which certifies both a high level of scholarship and the ability to make original contributions in one's own field. Students must take several advanced courses, pass certain qualifying examinations, and write a dissertation containing original research. The Department offers the Ph.D. in Mathematics with specializations in Pure Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. Course of Study Entering students are assigned a faculty advisor and are expected to consult with that advisor at the beginning of each quarter concerning their course selection.
Students are free to change advisors, as long as the new advisor approves.
The course of study falls naturally into three stages, although in some cases, these stages may be passed over or merged together. They also use this time to increase their breadth of knowledge in mathematics. Students take courses, read, and talk with fellow students and faculty. By the end of this first stage, students should have a fairly clear idea of the general area of mathematics for their dissertation topic. Students with superior undergraduate education or prior graduate experience can often shorten considerably this first stage of graduate study.