Graduate Handbook
The following information is a snapshot of all Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Ph.D. in Mathematics requirements from the University of Arizona Catalog. For full details on these requirements, please see the Mathematics Graduate Program handbook.
Master of Arts vs Master of Science in Mathematics
The Master of Science in Mathematics program requires a plan of study, professional development requirement, a thesis and examinations, and 30 units of approved graduate credit with differing parameters.
See the Mathematics Graduate Handbook for more specific details.
Master of Arts (M.A.)
While both degrees require a Master's thesis, the Master of Arts degree requires more courses outside mathematics and has a teaching option intended for secondary school teachers. This degree often serves as a stepping stone towards the PhD but not as strongly as the Master of Science.
Master of Science (M.S.)
While this degree also requires a thesis, the Master of Science degree requires a greater number of more advanced mathematics courses (technically those which are not co-convened). This degree often serves as a stepping stone towards the PhD but not as strongly as the Master of Science. The M.A. but especially the Master of Science often serve as a stepping stone towards the PhD.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mathematics
The Doctor of Philosophy degree usually requires about five years to complete. Ph.D. requirements are far more in depth than those of the Masters programs. You can find more detailed information in the Graduate Handbook. Aside from generalized course requirements, all Ph.D. students are required to select a supporting minor, find a graduate faculty advisor, complete professional development requirements, complete a dissertation, and successfully defend the dissertation. Course requirements include 36 units of graduate credit in the major with an additional 18 units of dissertation (MATH920).
See the Mathematics Graduate Handbook for more specific details.
Catalog Requirements
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
This is the degree for you if you plan to pursue a career in academic research, university teaching, or high-level research in industry or a government laboratory. The most important requirement is a dissertation which represents a substantial new contribution, of publishable quality, to the mathematical sciences. In fact, the point of the PhD degree is to prepare you to make and publish exactly this sort of contribution.
