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mathematical statistics  chart

What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Most full-time Ph.D. students complete the program in five years.

Where will I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

  • Fall: June 15*
  • Spring: November 1**
  • Summer: May 1*

*Must apply by February 15 to be considered for an assistantship
**Must apply by September 15 to be considered for an assistantship

Mathematics and Statistics, Ph.D.

Graduate Director, Mathematics, Zhongshan Li
404-413-6437
[email protected]

Graduate Director, Statistics, Gengsheng “Jeff” Qin
404-413-6434
[email protected]

The faculty in the Georgia State University Department of Mathematics and Statistics view the disciplines as great unifying themes in our modern culture. Math/stats is a language, a science, an art form and a tool of tremendous power.

The Ph.D. degree program in Mathematics and Statistics offers a choice of three concentrations:

  • Mathematics
  • Bioinformatics
  • Biostatistics

These concentrations address the critical need for mathematics faculty as well as the need for highly trained researchers in mathematics and statistics. Successful students will be effective and creative mathematics and statistics professionals.

Students in the concentrations in bioinformatics and biostatistics will graduate with a broad background in applied areas that will position them for hire into roles in business, industry, governmental institutions and research universities.

Graduates of the mathematics concentration will develop a broad knowledge of core areas of pure and applied mathematics that also offers a broad range of high-level career options.

Program Details
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Official GRE Scores *
  • Transcripts (one from each institution attended)
  • Official TOEFL/IELTS Scores (international applicants only) *

* Institutional code 5251 should be used for reporting GRE and TOEFL scores

For the Statement of Purpose, provide a statement of your educational background experience, preparation relevant to a graduate program in your chosen concentration and your research and career goals.

Each of the concentrations requires a minimum of 54 hours of coursework and at least 30 hours of dissertation research.

Students must take four of the six following common core courses (12 credit hours):

  • MATH 8110 Real Analysis I (3)
  • MATH 8200 Advanced Matrix Analysis (3)
  • MATH 8510 Applied Mathematics (3)
  • STAT 8600 Probability Theory (3)
  • STAT 8561 Linear Statistical Analysis I (3)
  • MATH 9116 Teaching College Math Sciences (3)

Visit the catalog for curriculum details.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics accepts applications for entry in all three semesters. However, to be considered for graduate assistantships for the fall semester, applicants must complete the application process in the Office of Graduate Services in time for the department to receive it by March 1. This process often takes several weeks. International applicants should allow at least two additional months for the processing of applications for admission.

Graduate assistants are required to enroll for a minimum of 18 credit hours each semester.  These credit hours will consist of courses required for the prescribed program of study, as well as additional hours of MATH 8801, MATH 8802, MATH 8900, MATH 8950, MATH 8999, MATH 9999, STAT 8691, STAT 8692, STAT 8900, STAT 8950, STAT 8999, and STAT 9999.

The objective of the degree program is to provide comprehensive training in mathematics and statistics professional development. This training is meant to prepare all students, including those from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups, for a variety of career paths involving independent research, teaching and/or science advocacy, which include jobs in academia.

The doctoral program has 5 main goals:

  • Learn mathematics and statistics theory: Develop expertise with major concepts and theory in a research specialty area.
  • Develop critical thinking skills: Use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach.
  • Acquire communication skills: Share information in written or oral formats.
  • Learn to be a teacher and mentor: Learn both sides of the mentor-mentee relationship.
  • Learn professional standards: Engage in ethical professional behavior, including compliance with mandatory regulations.

Description

Careers

Our Ph.D. students go on to impressive careers in academia, federal agencies and a wide range of industries including pharmaceutical and medical research, technology services and analytics, and banking and finance.

View a list of some of the first jobs landed by our recent doctoral program graduates here.

Contacts

Graduate Director, Mathematics
Zhongshan Li
404-413-6437
[email protected]

Graduate Director, Statistics
Gengsheng “Jeff” Qin
404-413-6434
[email protected]

Graduate Staff
Katina Akins
[email protected]
404-413-6463

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Atlanta, GA 30303

The information shared provides an overview of Georgia State’s offerings. For details on admissions requirements, tuition, courses and more, refer to the university catalogs.