Introduction

The M.S. in Mathematics is designed to provide the mathematical background needed to pursue careers in applied mathematics, statistics, industry, and teaching.

Students in the program have the option to concentrate in:

  • Applied Mathematics: is designed for those with a strong undergraduate background in mathematics who wish to better prepare themselves for careers that include statistics, applied mathematics, or who intend to pursue a Ph.D. degree at another institute.
  • Secondary Education: is designed for those with a strong undergraduate background in mathematics who wish to further their careers in teaching mathematics at the high school level. Successful candidates will be teachers who wish to improve their level of competence in advanced mathematics or serve as High School Mathematics Specialists or those who wish to advance their mathematics knowledge while seeking initial licensure (see below.) 
    • Please note: Students who wish to pursue initial licensure in Secondary Education Mathematics in the Goodwin College of Education at the same time as pursuing their M.S. in Mathematics, Secondary Education concentration, in the College of Arts and Sciences are welcomed and strongly encouraged to apply to both programs. 

Credit hours required: 30 (and passing the M.S. Qualifying Examination)

ADMISSION INFORMATION

The program admits students for the fall, spring and summer semesters.

Applicants for the program must choose their concentration area when they submit their application for admission to the College of Graduate Studies and Research. 

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Program Benefits

Secondary Education Concentration

Students pursuing the Secondary Education concentration in the M.S. in Mathematics program will pursue more advanced topics in mathematics that are relevant to their high school curricula. For example, courses in advanced Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry, real and complex analysis, probability and statistics, and the history of mathematics will offer deep training in content areas while providing opportunities to connect with teaching. At the end of the program, students engage with a faculty member on a research project or a master’s thesis in mathematics that may be relevant to a secondary education teaching topic of their choice, presenting the work as an oral presentation to the Northeastern Illinois University community.

Applied Mathematics Concentration

Students get opportunities to explore more advanced topics in mathematics, with a focus in statistics, mathematical modeling, actuarial sciences and operations research. Typically students have the ability to select from a wide range of courses that are taught in the evenings. At the end of the program, students engage with a faculty member on a research project or a master’s thesis in mathematics, presenting the work in an oral presentation to the Northeastern Illinois University community. Students who complete the Applied Math concentration will gain advanced knowledge of the current trends and techniques in applied mathematics.

Career Options

SECONDARY EDUCATION CONCENTRATION

Graduates with the M.S. in Mathematics (Secondary Education concentration) would find employment as mathematics teachers in public and private secondary or high schools if they have licensure, or may pursue a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at other institutions.

APPLIED MATHEMATICS CONCENTRATION

Advanced degrees in Mathematics are in very high demand by employers. Graduates with the M.S. in Mathematics (Applied Mathematics concentration) generally go on to a variety of fields. These fields may include teaching mathematics at the community college level, becoming an actuary, going on to attain a Ph.D. in Mathematics or related fields, engineering careers, federal government careers and careers in the financial sector.

For more detailed career information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Academic Catalog Information

Take a closer look at the master's degree in Mathematics and the courses offered toward the degree.

Mathematics, M.S.

Department and Contact Information

If you are interested in the program or have questions, please contact Mathematics at (773) 442-5760 or math@neiu.edu.

Mathematics Department Homepage

About Northeastern

Northeastern Illinois University is home to students from all corners of the world and is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the nation. Our small class sizes, flexible schedules and dedicated faculty can help you succeed in your studies.

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