Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Mathematics (Statistics Concentration Non-thesis Option)

Program Overview

Texas State offers opportunities to work with outstanding faculty in a collegial atmosphere where mathematicians and mathematics educators work closely together. The multi-faceted programs offer a strong mathematics foundation and research opportunities in mathematics and mathematics education, preparing students for further graduate study, teaching, or industry positions.

Application Requirements

The items listed below are required for admission consideration for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Submission instructions, additional details, and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website. International students should review the International Admission Documents page for additional requirements.

  • completed online application
  • $55 nonrefundable application fee

          or

  • $90 nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials 
  • baccalaureate degree in mathematics or a related field from a regionally accredited university (Students who lack sufficient background course work will be required to complete leveling course work with grades of B or better prior to admission.)
  • official transcripts from each institution where course credit was granted
  • minimum 2.75 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses)
  • official GRE (general test only) with competitive scores in the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections
  • effective spring 2020, GRE not required
  • resume/CV
  • statement of purpose
  • three letters of recommendation addressing the substance and quality of the student’s preparation for graduate study

TOEFL, PTE, or IELTS Scores

Non-native English speakers who do not qualify for an English proficiency waiver:

  • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
  • official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
  • official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0

This program does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree with a major in Mathematics concentration in Statistics requires 36 semester credit hours. Students who do not have the appropriate background course work may be required to complete leveling courses.

Course Requirements

Required Courses
MATH 5305Advanced Course in Probability and Statistics3
MATH 5315Mathematical Statistics3
MATH 5335Survival Analysis3
or MATH 5376D Statistical Applications in Genetics and Bioinformatics
MATH 5345Regression Analysis3
MATH 5373Theory of Functions of Real Variables3
MATH 5376ADesign and Analysis of Experiments3
or MATH 5376B Analysis of Variance
MATH 5390Statistics3
MATH 5393Numerical Optimization3
or MATH 5374 Numerical Linear Algebra
Prescribed Electives
Choose 12 hours from the following:12
Partial Differential Equations
Modern Algebra
Foundations of Differential Equations
Functions of a Complex Variable
Field Theory
Number Theory
The Theory of Integration
General Topology
Metric Spaces
Studies in Applied Mathematics
Scientific Computation
Combinatorics
Applied and Algorithmic Graph Theory
Applied Discrete Mathematics
Statistical Applications in Genetics and Bioinformatics
Survival Analysis
Mathematical Modeling
Introduction to Data Science
Foundation of Real Analysis
Numerical Optimization
Numerical Linear Algebra
Total Hours36

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

All candidates for graduate degrees must pass a comprehensive examination consisting of three parts. A student may fail up to two times on one or more of the three parts of the comprehensive exam. After failing any given part of the comprehensive exam twice, a student will then be advised to retake the course(s). Provided they earn at least a C in each retaken class, they will then be permitted one final attempt at passing the corresponding part(s) of the comprehensive exam.

Students who do not successfully complete the requirements for the degree within the timelines specified will be dismissed from the program.

Master's level courses in Mathematics: MATHMTE

Courses Offered

Mathematics (MATH)

MATH 5111. Graduate Assistant Training.

This course is concerned with techniques used in the teaching of mathematics. This course is required as a condition of employment for graduate teaching and instructional assistants. This course does not earn graduate degree credit. Repeatable with different emphasis.

1 Credit Hour. 1 Lecture Contact Hour. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Graduate Assistantship|Exclude from Graduate GPA
Grade Mode: Leveling/Assistantships

MATH 5199B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding.

1 Credit Hour. 1 Lecture Contact Hour. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit

MATH 5299B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding.

2 Credit Hours. 2 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit

MATH 5301. Partial Differential Equations.

Theory and application of partial differential equations; derivation of the differential equation; use of vector and Tensor methods; equations of the first order; wave equations; vibrations and normal functions; Fourier series and integral; Cauchy’s methods, initial data; methods of Green; potentials; boundary problems; methods of Riemann-Volterra; characteristics. Prerequisites: MATH 3323 and consent of the instructor.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5303. History of Mathematics.

A study of the development of mathematics and of the accomplishments of men and women who contributed to its progress. Cannot be used on a degree plan for M.S. degree. Prerequisite: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5304. Topics in Mathematics for the Secondary Teacher.

A study of the current trends and topics found in the secondary school mathematics curriculum with the goal of improving the mathematical background of the secondary teacher. Course content will be flexible and topics will be selected on the basis of student needs and interests. Cannot be used on degree plan for M.S. degree. Prerequisite: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5305. Advanced Course in Probability and Statistics.

Advanced topics in probability and statistics. May be repeated once with different emphasis for additional credit. Prerequisite: MATH 3305.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5307. Modern Algebra.

Topics in modern algebra. Material will be adapted to the needs of the class. Prerequisite: MATH 4307 with a grade of "C" or better, or MATH 5384 with a grade of "B" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5311. Foundations of Differential Equations.

A critical study of the foundations of derivation equations, operator spaces, and such basic topics. Recent developments in this field will be investigated and independent investigation will be encouraged. Prerequisite: MATH 2393 and [MATH 3380 or MATH 5382] both with grades of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5312. Functions of a Complex Variable.

Modern developments in the field of a complex variable. Prerequisite: MATH 2393 and MATH 4315 and [MATH 3380 or MATH 5382] all with grades of "C" or better or departmental approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5313. Field Theory.

Topics in field theory, separable extensions, and Galois Theory. Prerequisite: MATH 4307 with a grade of "C" or better, or MATH 5384 with a grade of "B" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5314. Number Theory.

Topics in algebra selected from quadratic forms, elementary number theory, algebraic or analytic number theory, with material adapted to the needs of the class. Prerequisite: MATH 4307 with a grade of "C" or better, or MATH 5384 with a grade of "B" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5315. Mathematical Statistics.

This course discusses theoretical aspects of estimation theory and hypothesis testing procedures, with some of their important applications. The main topics include convergence of random variables, parameter estimation, properties of estimators, interval estimation, sufficiency and applications to the exponential family, hypothesis testing, decision theory, and Bayesian inference. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5317. Problems in Advanced Mathematics.

Open to graduate students on an individual basis by arrangement with the mathematics department. A considerable degree of mathematical maturity is required. May be repeated with different emphasis. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from Graduate GPA|Leveling
Grade Mode: Leveling/Assistantships

MATH 5319. The Theory of Integration.

A course in the theory of integration with special emphasis on the Lebesgue integrals. A course in the theory of real variables, with a knowledge of point set theory, is desirable as a background for this course. A considerable amount of mathematical maturity is required. Prerequisite: MATH 4315 with a grade of "C" or better, or departmental approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5329. General Topology.

Point-set topology with an emphasis on general topological spaces; separation axioms, connectivity, the metrization theorem, and the C-W complexes. Prerequisite: MATH 4330 with a grade of "C" or better, or departmental approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5331. Metric Spaces.

Point-set topology with an emphasis on metric spaces and compactness but including a brief introduction to general topological spaces. Prerequisite: MATH 4330 with a grade of "C" or better, or departmental approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5335. Survival Analysis.

This course introduces concepts and methods in the analysis of survival data. Topics include characteristics of survival data; basic functions; parametric models for survival time; maximum likelihood estimation of survival functions; two-sample test techniques; regression analysis with parametric and semi-parametric models; and mathematical and graphical methods for model checking. Prerequisite: Math 5305 with a grade of "B" or better or instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5336. Studies in Applied Mathematics.

Topics selected from optimization and control theory, numerical analysis, calculus of variations, boundary value problems, special functions, tensor analysis, or other subfields of applied mathematics are studied. Repeatable for credit with different topic emphasis. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5340. Scientific Computation.

This course will involve the analysis of algorithms from science and mathematics, and the implementation of these algorithms using a computer algebra system. Symbolic numerical and graphical techniques will be studied. Applications will be drawn from science, engineering, and mathematics. A knowledge of differential equations is expected. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Lab Required
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5345. Regression Analysis.

This course introduces formulation and statistical methodologies for simple and multiple regression, assessment of model fit, model design, and criteria for selection of optimal regression models. Students will develop skills with the use of statistical packages and the writing of reports analyzing a variety of real-world data. Prerequisite: MATH 2472.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5350. Combinatorics.

This course, covers permutations, combinations, Stirling numbers, chromatic numbers, Ramsey numbers, generating functions, Polya theory, Latin squares and random block design. Prerequisite: MATH 3398 or consent of instructor.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5355. Applied and Algorithmic Graph Theory.

This course is designed to emphasize the close tie between the theoretical and algorithmic aspects. The topics may include basic concepts such as connectivity, trees, planarity, coloring of graphs, matchings, and networks. It also covers many algorithms such as Max-flow Min-cut algorithm, maximum matching algorithm, and optimization algorithms for facility location problems in networks. Prerequisite: MATH 5388 or MATH 3398.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5358. Applied Discrete Mathematics.

Boolean algebra, counting techniques, discrete probability, graph theory, and related discrete mathematical structures that are commonly encountered in computer science. Prerequisite: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5360. Mathematical Modeling.

This course introduces the process and techniques of mathematical modeling. It covers a variety of application areas from the natural sciences. Emphasis is placed on deterministic systems, stochastic models, and diffusion. Prerequisite: [MATH 2393 and MATH 3323 both with grades of "D" or better and MATH 5301 with a grade of "C" or better] or instructor approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5373. Theory of Functions of Real Variables.

This course will discuss those topics that will enable the student to obtain a better grasp of the fundamental concepts of the calculus of real variables and the more recent developments of this analysis. Prerequisite: MATH 4315 with a grade of "C" or better, or departmental approval.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5374. Numerical Linear Algebra.

This course introduces tools that mathematical scientists use with vectors and matrices. Applications include least squares and eigenvalue problems, and systems of equations from applied mathematics. The stability of algorithms to perturbations are considered. Theory is balanced with numerically implementing algorithms, in particular for iterative methods for large, sparse systems. Prerequisite: MATH 3377 with a "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5376A. Design and Analysis of Experiments.

This course introduces fundamental concepts in the design of experiments, justification of linear models, randomization and principles of blocking. It also discusses the construction and analysis of basic designs including fractional replication, composite designs, factorial designs, and incomplete block designs. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5376B. Analysis of Variance.

This course introduces basic methods, one-way, two-way ANOVA procedures, and multifactor ANOVA designs. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5376D. Statistical Applications in Genetics and Bioinformatics.

The statistical concepts and methods to be covered include important probability distributions, analysis of variance, regression analysis, hidden Markov model, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods. These methods will be used to address important and challenging questions arising in the analysis of large genetic and bioinformatic datasets. Prerequisite: Math4305 or equivalent.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5376E. Introduction to Data Science.

This course introduces basic concepts and methods in the field of data science. Topics include data wrangling, data exploration and visualization, optimization, deep learning, supervised learning subjects such as nearest-neighbor techniques, regression, Lasso, linear discriminant analysis, logistic regression, tree-based models, neural networks, as well as unsupervised learning subjects such as market basket analysis and cluster analysis, and random forests. The material will be approached with a blend of theory and application, and will include programming in Python, R, or another modern, popular language of the instructor's choice.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5376F. Introduction to Probability Theory and Models.

This course covers the definitions, constructions, theorems, and techniques to build and analyze probability models. The emphasis of this class is the active construction and analysis of probability models. However, we will develop a rigorous treatment of the requisite abstract theory in service of this goal. Topics include conditional expectation, the convergence of random variables, weak and strong law of large numbers, central limit theorem, random walk, Martingales, and Brownian motion.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Exclude from 3-peat Processing|Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5381. Foundations of Set Theory.

A formal study of the theory of sets, relations, functions, finite and infinite sets, set operations and other selected topics. This course will also train the student in the understanding of mathematical logic and the writing of proofs. Prerequisite:MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5382. Foundation of Real Analysis.

A course covering the foundations of mathematical analysis. Topics include: real numbers, sequences, series, and limits and continuity of functions. Prerequisite: MATH 5381.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5384. Geometric Approach to Abstract Algebra.

Definitions and elementary properties of groups, rings, integral domains, fields and vector spaces with great emphasis on the rings of integers, rational numbers, complex numbers, polynomials, and the interplay between algebra and geometry. Prerequisite: MATH 5381.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5386. Knots and Surfaces, An Introduction to Low-Dimensional Topology.

Knot polynomials and other knot invariants. The topological classification of surfaces and topological invariants of surfaces. Prerequisite: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5388. Discrete Mathematics.

This course covers topics from: basic and advanced techniques of counting, recurrence relations, discrete probability and statistics, and applications of graph theory. Prerequisites: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5390. Statistics.

This course will cover not only some of the basic statistical ideas and techniques but also the mathematical and probabilistic underpinnings of these techniques with an emphasis on simulations and modeling. The planning, conducting, analysis, and reporting of experimental data will also be covered. Prerequisite: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5392. Survey of Geometries.

A study of topics in geometry including geometrical transformations, the geometry fractals, projective geometry, Euclidean geometry, and non-Euclidean geometry. Prerequisite: MATH 2472 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5393. Numerical Optimization.

This course focuses on optimization methods for a broad range of applications, such as engineering and applied sciences. Subjects are the basic theory of optimization, numerical algorithms to locate points satisfying optimality conditions and to analyze the convergence properties. Prerequisites: MATH 2472 and MATH 3377 and MATH 3383, all with a grade of “C” or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MATH 5399A. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s initial thesis enrollment. No thesis credit is awarded until student has completed the thesis in Mathematics 5399B.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit

MATH 5399B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit

MATH 5599B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding.

5 Credit Hours. 5 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit

MATH 5999B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding.

9 Credit Hours. 9 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Credit/No Credit

Mathematics for Teacher Education (MTE)

MTE 5301E. Visual Models for Middle School Mathematics.

This course uses visual models to motivate understanding of the fundamental concepts underlying middle school mathematics. Pedagogical techniques to engage middle school students will also be addressed including inquiry-based instructional methods utilizing these visual models.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5301F. Implementing New Mathematics Curriculum.

In this course we will investigate the keys to successfully implementing new curriculum. Two main aspects considered are: 1) the mathematical content knowledge required for a new curriculum and 2) how to build a community of practice which provides support during the implementation process.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5301G. Mathematics for Teaching.

A study of the current trends and topics found in the secondary school mathematics curriculum taught from an advance perspective. Course context will be flexible and topics will be selected on the basis of student needs and interests.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5302A. Quantitative Reasoning.

This course covers current pedagogy, curriculum, and methods related specifically to the teaching of middle school mathematics. Some of the topics explored are curriculum theory, instructional theory, learning theory, problem solving, national and state standards and assessment, discovery learning, assessment methods, manipulative, and technology in the classroom.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Course Attribute(s): Topics
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5313. Geometry and Measurement.

This course will focus on using spatial reasoning to investigate the concepts of direction, orientation, shape and structure; using mathematical reasoning to develop and prove geometric relationships; using logical reasoning and proof in relation to the axiomatic structure of geometry; using measurement of geometry concepts to solve real-world problems. 5315 Algebraic Reasoning. (3-0) This course will focus on using algebraic reasoning to.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5315. Algebraic Reasoning.

This course will focus on using algebraic reasoning to investigate patterns, make generalizations, formulate mathematical models, and make predications; using properties, graphs, and applications of relations and function to analyze, model and solve problems; and making connections among geometric, graphic, numeric and symbolic representation of functions and relations.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5321. Probability and Statistics.

This course will deal with using graphical and numerical techniques to explore date, characterize patterns, and describe departures from patterns; designing experiments to solve problems; understanding the theory of probability and its relationship to sampling and statistical inference and its use in making and evaluating predication. Prerequisite: MTE 5315 with a grade of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter

MTE 5323. Logic and Foundations of Mathematics.

This course will consist of an introduction to fundamental mathematical structures and techniques of proof. Topics will include: logic, set theory, number theory, relations, and functions. Emphasis will be placed on communication about mathematics and construction of well-reasoned explanations. Prerequisite: MTE 5313 and MTE 5319 both with grades of "C" or better.

3 Credit Hours. 3 Lecture Contact Hours. 0 Lab Contact Hours.
Grade Mode: Standard Letter