Graduate Programs

Prepare for a successful career in mathematics education or research with our graduate programs. We offer the Master of Science (M.S.) in mathematics, the Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) and the Ph.D. in mathematics. You can take classes in a wide variety of subjects, including applied mathematics, differential equations, differential geometry, mathematics education, number theory, optimization, ring theory and topology. Small classes and a high degree of interaction with our research faculty promote a strong learning environment.

We offer financial support to graduate students in the form of assistantships and fellowships.

The Graduate School also provides helpful information, including student forms and thesis/dissertation guidance.

Current graduate students are invited to share their experiences in the department by completing an online survey (login required).

M.S. and M.S.T.

The Master of Science degree in Mathematics offers specializations in Pure Mathematics, Mathematics Education, Applied Mathematics and Computational Mathematics. The Master of Science degree in Teaching combines mathematics study with advancing teaching skills in preparation for working with students in secondary school, leading to an endorsement to teach mathematics and a teacher-leader endorsement.

Ph.D.

The doctoral program is nontraditional in that all students work with an application (typically with a heavy computing component) of current mathematics in another academic discipline or industry. This culminates in a semester interning at a governmental or industrial research facility as part of the degree requirements. The result is a perspective of the mathematical sciences as an integrated whole with appropriate roles for both pure and applied mathematics. The required combination of course work, experience, and research enables a graduate of the program to pursue a career in either academic or non-academic settings.

The Transition to Graduate Study

We offer a variety of transitional courses to bridge the gap between undergraduate work and graduate-level courses that still carry graduate credit. This allows you to start your graduate career in a way that is appropriate for your ability and background. Work with your advisor to determine what courses will be helpful for you. Topics include:

  • Algebra
  • Analysis
  • Differential equations
  • Numerical analysis
  • Topology

Contact Us

Department of Mathematical Sciences
DeKalb, IL 60115

815-753-0566
chair@niu.edu

Registration or class questions
815-753-6722

Chair's office
815-753-6780

Director of Graduate Studies
Sien Deng, Professor
gradprog@niu.edu
815-753-6765

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